SZS files exist as 3 different types. Please find information about each of them below.
Type 1: Wii Game Data File
An SZS file is a game data archive used by Nintendo Switch games like Mario Kart 8 and Splatoon 2. It contains 3D models and textures to display characters and objects. Some SZS files have other asset...
General Information
| Title | SZS File Extension |
| Extension | .szs |
| Full Form | Wii Game Data File |
| File Type | Game Data Archive |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store game data |
| Additional Functions | Compress data |
| Features | Yaz0 compression |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High efficiency |
| Supports Layers | No |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | With tools |
Use Cases
| Game Modding | Yes |
| Game Development | By Nintendo |
| Data Extraction | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low risk |
| Best Practices | Verify source |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2006 |
| Latest Version | Varies by game |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .arc, .u8, .brres |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 Wii Console |
N/A | Nintendo Wii |
 Dolphin Emulator |
Free | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| SZS Modifier |
Free | Windows |
Type 2: Nintendo Switch Game Data Archive
General Information
| Title | SZS File Extension |
| Extension | .szs |
| Full Form | Nintendo Switch Game Data Archive |
| File Type | Game Data Archive |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store game data |
| Additional Functions | Compress data, Package assets |
| Features | Compressed, Container |
File Characteristics
| Quality | High, Game-specific |
| Supports Layers | N/A |
| Supports Transparency | N/A |
| Editable | With tools |
Use Cases
| Game Play | Yes |
| Game Modding | Yes |
| Game Development | Limited |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low, Game-specific |
| Best Practices | Backup, Verify sources |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2017 |
| Latest Version | As of latest game update |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .yar, .yaz0, .bfsar |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
 Nintendo Switch |
Device-specific | Nintendo Switch OS |
| Yuzu Emulator |
Free | Windows, Linux, macOS |
| Ryujinx Emulator |
Free | Windows, Linux, macOS |
Type 3: GameCube Data File
General Information
| Title | SZS File Extension |
| Extension | .szs |
| Full Form | GameCube Data File |
| File Type | Compressed Data File |
| Developer | Nintendo |
| MIME Type | application/octet-stream |
File Function
| Primary Function | Store game data |
| Additional Functions | Compress data, Archive data |
| Features | Compact size, Fast loading |
File Characteristics
| Quality | Game-dependent |
| Supports Layers | No |
| Supports Transparency | Game-dependent |
| Editable | With tools |
Use Cases
| Game Modding | Yes |
| Data Archiving | Yes |
| Emulation | Yes |
Security and Practices
| Security Risks | Low risk |
| Best Practices | Scan for viruses, Backup files |
Historical/Version Information
| Initial Release | 2001 |
| Latest Version | Varies by game |
Associated Types
| Similar Extensions | .gcm, .iso, .wad |
Software Compatibility
| Software | Usage Policy | OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphin Emulator |
Free | Windows, Mac, Linux |
| Wiimms SZS Tools |
Free | Windows, Linux |