Properties of RLE Files and How to Open a File with .rle Extension

RLE files exist as 2 different types. Please find information about each of them below.

Type 1: Run Length Encoded Bitmap

General Information

Title	RLE File Extension
Extension	.rle
Full Form	Run Length Encoded Bitmap
File Type	Image File
Developer	Various
MIME Type	image/rle

File Function

Primary Function	Store images
Additional Functions	Reduce file size
Features	Compression, Simple encoding

File Characteristics

Quality	Lossless
Supports Layers	No
Supports Transparency	Depends
Editable	Yes

Use Cases

Graphic Design	Yes
Digital Art	Yes
Data Saving	Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks	Low
Best Practices	Scan for malware, Back up data

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release	Unknown
Latest Version	Varies by software

Associated Types

Similar Extensions

.bmp, .gif, .png

Software Compatibility

Software	Usage Policy	OS Compatibility
Microsoft Paint	Free	Windows
Adobe Photoshop	Subscription	Windows, Mac
GIMP	Free	Windows, Mac, Linux

Type 2: Golly Simulation Pattern File

Here are the edits to the text: The storage of huge universes is done by dumping the compressed representation in "Macrocell format". This format is used to store backups when using hashlife-based al...

Here are the edits to the text:

The storage of huge universes is done by dumping the compressed representation in “Macrocell format”. This format is used to store backups when using hashlife-based algorithms since little translation between external and internal representation is needed. The size of an Extended RLE file is frequently proportional to the number of cells. Golly supports universes with trillions of cells using hashlife-based algorithms.

We have the free online .RLE tools that allow to view, edit, convert, merge, split and compare the RLE files without installing anything. Please click to explore the details for each feature.

Saved simulations and patterns created by Golly are stored in run-length encoded text files with RLE filename extension. These RLE files save the state as a two-dimensional grid. The RLE format used by Golly is Extended RLE. You need software like Photoshop to open an RLE file.

The rle.gz file contains saved 2D Golly compressed simulation pattern. The rle.gz file extension is associated with the Golly game used to explore Conway’s Game of Life. An rle.gz file is related to the Golly game. It contains compressed pattern. Probably not meant to be accessed by the user. Probably cannot be converted.

The RLE data file is related to Golly, an application for exploring Conway’s Game of Life and cellular automata. For more information about the RLE format and Golly, visit the website. File type: Golly Simulation Pattern Data. Application: Golly. Mime-type: application/octet-stream.

Description: The RLE file is a Golly Simulation Pattern Data. Golly explores Conway’s Game of Life and cellular automata. The RLE format description is not available. Category: Data files. Application: Golly. Mime-type: application/octet-stream.

.RLE file is associated with Golly Simulation Pattern File developed by Golly. Run Length Encoded Bitmap. .RLE file belongs to Raster Image Files used in Windows.

The rle.gz file contains saved 2D Golly compressed simulation pattern. It is associated with the Golly game to explore Conway’s Game of Life. Help how to open: Probably not meant to be accessed by user.

RLE.GZ file belongs to Game Files category. Golly supports RLE.GZ files and is most used to handle such files. On the Golly website you’ll find detailed information about the software and supported file formats.

Windows will find programs to open a file format. If not, the proper software to open RLE files is not installed. By installing an adequate program you can view, edit and save RLE files. Applications for RLE files: File type: Run Length Encoded Bitmap. Developer/Producer: N/A.