.SGF File Extension

Smart Game Format

The file format stores game records. It uses text in a tree structure. Games in this format can be emailed, posted or processed with text tools. The purposes are to store played game records and provi...

General Information

Title SGF File Extension
Extension .sgf
Full Form Smart Game Format
File Type Game Record File
Developer Ishida Yoshio
MIME Type application/x-go-sgf

File Function

Primary Function Store game data
Additional Functions Replay moves, Review gameplay
Features Text-based, Human-readable

File Characteristics

Quality Structured data
Supports Layers N/A
Supports Transparency N/A
Editable Yes

Use Cases

Board Games Review Yes
Game Analysis Yes
Educational Purposes Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks Low risk
Best Practices Verify source

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release 1987
Latest Version SGF Standard 4 (1997)

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .gib, .ngf, .ibf

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
KGS Go Server Free Web-based
GoGui Free Windows, Mac, Linux
SmartGo Paid Windows, iOS