.X File Extension

DirectX Model File

Developer	Microsoft
Popularity	Average rating 4.2 / 5. Vote count: 52
Category	3D Image Files
Format	.X
Cross Platform	Update Soon

What is an X file?

Files with the .X extension are a type of 3D model file used primarily in computer graphics and game development.

These files store information about 3D objects, their geometry, materials, textures, and animations.

.X files are known for their simplicity and compatibility with various 3D modeling and rendering software, making them a popular choice for developers and artists in the field.

More Information.

The .X file format was introduced in the late 1990s as part of DirectX 3D graphics technologies. Its initial purpose was to provide a standardized way to store 3D models, animations, and materials for video games and multimedia applications. As DirectX evolved, so did the .X file format, with newer versions adding more features and capabilities.

Origin Of This File.

The .X file format was originally developed by Microsoft as part of the DirectX technology. DirectX is a collection of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for handling multimedia and game-related tasks on the Windows platform.

.X files were designed to facilitate the storage and exchange of 3D models for DirectX applications. Over time, the .X file format gained recognition and support from other 3D graphics software, making it a widely accepted standard.

File Structure Technical Specification.

.X files have a structured format that includes various sections for describing the 3D model. These sections typically cover the geometry, materials, textures, animations, and hierarchy of objects within the 3D scene. The file structure may include keywords, data types, and numeric values.

The technical specification of .X files can vary depending on the version, but it often consists of a header, templates, and data sections. Details of the file structure can be found in the official documentation of the specific .X file version.

How to Convert the File?

Windows

Converting .X files on a Windows system can be done using various 3D modeling and file conversion software.

Here’s how:

3ds Max: If you have 3ds Max installed, you can open the .X file and then export it to a different format, such as .OBJ or .FBX, which is more widely supported.
Blender: Blender is a free and open-source 3D modeling software. Open the .X file in Blender and export it to a compatible format for your needs.
File Conversion Software: You can also use specialized file conversion software like Autodesk FBX Converter, which allows you to convert .X files to other formats.

Linux

On Linux, .X file support may be limited, but you can still convert these files to more Linux-friendly formats like .OBJ or .FBX using the following methods:

Blender: Blender is available for Linux and is a versatile 3D modeling tool. Open the .X file in Blender and export it to the desired format.
Command Line Conversion: You can use command-line tools or scripts to convert .X files to other formats. For example, you can use the Assimp library and write a custom script to perform the conversion.

Mac

Converting .X files on a Mac can be achieved using similar methods to Windows.

Here’s how:

Blender: Install Blender on your Mac and open the .X file. Blender supports .X file import, and you can export the model to a different format like .OBJ or .FBX.
Third-Party Conversion Tools: Some third-party conversion tools designed for macOS may offer .X file conversion capabilities. Explore the Mac App Store or other software repositories for such tools.

Android

To convert .X files on an Android device, you’ll typically need a specialized app or use a cloud-based service that offers 3D model conversion.

Here’s how:

3D Modeling Apps: Look for 3D modeling apps on the Google Play Store that support .X files. These apps often provide export options to save your model in a different format.
Cloud Services: Some online 3D model conversion services offer Android-compatible web interfaces. Upload your .X file, choose the desired output format, and download the converted file directly to your Android device.

iOS

Converting .X files on an iOS device can be challenging due to the limited support for desktop-style 3D modeling software.

However, you can explore the following options:

3D Modeling Apps: Look for 3D modeling apps on the App Store that support .X files. Similar to Android, these apps may provide export options to save your model in a different format.
Cloud Services: Similar to Android, some online 3D model conversion services offer mobile-friendly web interfaces. Upload your .X file, select the desired output format, and download the converted file to your iOS device.

Advantages And Disadvantages.

Advantages

Interoperability: .X files are supported by various 3D modeling and game development software, making them versatile and widely accessible.
Simplicity: The file format is relatively simple, which makes it easy to read and write programmatically.
Texture and Animation Support: .X files can store texture and animation data, making them suitable for complex 3D scenes.

Disadvantages

Limited Features: Compared to more modern 3D file formats, .X files may lack some advanced features and capabilities.
Platform Dependence: While .X files are widely used, they were originally designed for Windows and may not be as well-supported on other platforms.
Lack of Adoption: Some 3D software and game engines have moved on to more modern file formats, reducing the adoption of .X files in favor of alternatives like .FBX or .OBJ.

How to Open X?

Open In Windows

To open .X files on a Windows system, you can use various 3D modeling and game development software that support this format. Common choices include 3ds Max, Blender, or Microsoft’s own DirectX SDK.

Open In Linux

On Linux, you can use third-party software that offers .X file support, or you may need to consider converting .X files to a more Linux-friendly format like .OBJ or .FBX using conversion tools.

Open In MAC

Mac users can utilize 3D modeling software such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max (via Parallels or Boot Camp) to work with .X files. Alternatively, conversion tools can help make .X files compatible with macOS.

Open In Android

For Android, you can use 3D modeling apps available on the Google Play Store that support .X files. Additionally, some game engines compatible with Android, such as Unity, offer .X file support.

Open In IOS

On iOS, you can use 3D modeling apps or game development software like Unity that provide .X file compatibility. It’s essential to ensure that the software you choose supports the .X file format on iOS.

Open in Others

For other platforms, you can explore 3D modeling and game development software that supports .X files. If native support is limited, consider using conversion tools to adapt .X files to formats more commonly supported on your chosen platform.