How and how to open a * .pak file? Description of the * .pak file format

Having trouble opening an unknown file format? This article will cover how to open a * .pak file.

Format description

PAK stands for Package . Files with the * .pak extension are resource packs, containers that contain many compatible and incompatible file formats. Presented as large binary files. They belong to the category of compressed files - in this sense, they are similar to archives (* .zip, * .rar).

Initially, the format was used in games. Later it began to be used in other software systems, for example, for organizing web forums (container of "emoticons").

The answer to the question of how to open a * .pak file directly depends on what types of files the container contains. Therefore, it is important to know their origin. Next, consider the best methods and programs for opening * .pak files.

Winrar

Contrary to popular belief, opening a * .pak with a regular WinRar will fail. You need an unzipper, either specifically for this format, or supporting a large number of formats.

Peazip

PeaZip has at least three advantages over WinRar:

• it is a free program;
• it is on both Windows and Linux;
• It supports the format in question.

Below is an instruction on how to open a * .pak file with PeaZip:

• download the program from the official site (do not use third-party services, so as not to download a virus with the program);
• install the program in the usual way (two clicks on the installation * .exe file);
• open the program;
• select "File" - "Open";
• Find the desired file and select it;
• done!

In addition to * .pak PeaZip opens all the usual as well as rare archive files.

Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe 2010 (or 2011)

Powerful archiver, popular among users of the "apple" operating system.

Advantage: developers provide two versions of the program, for both Windows and Mac.

Disadvantages: multifunctionality makes it difficult to work with the program, there is no installation wizard (you have to install it manually), the software is represented by a software package, and not a single utility.

How to open * .pak file with Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe:

1. Run the program.
2. Click on Open and select the file.
3. Click the Quick Tools tab.
4. In the form called Extract, select the switch from Open to Extract.
5. Enter the path to the folder into which the file is unzipped.
6. Click Run.

File Type - Game File

Below is a list of programs for those who are looking for how to open the * .pak file obtained from the game.

1. Simutrans. There are versions for both Windows, and for Mac and Linux. Designed to work with Simutrans Pak files.
2. PAK Explorer - allows you to create and manage pak containers. English interface. Only suitable for Windows (XP to 8, including Vista).
3. DePacker - a program for Windows, allows you to work with encrypted files. This and the previous programs are primarily used to open * .pak files obtained from video games.
4. PakBuilder is a small utility that creates and works with Simutrans Pak files .

Alternative option

Another way to open a * .pak file:

1. Go to the folder with the file.
2. Just in case, make a copy of the file.
3. Click on it and open the context menu (right mouse button).
4. Select Rename from the list.
5. Manually rename the file extension to * .zip.
6. Open through a regular archiver.

This instruction only works in half the cases, since the file may be encrypted or contain incompatible file formats for * .zip. Therefore, it is recommended to make a copy so as not to damage the source.