ESM File Extension

What is ESM file?

ESM is a file extension commonly associated with Elder Scrolls Master Format files. Elder Scrolls Master Format specification was created by Bethesda Softworks. ESM file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. ESM file belongs to the Game Files category just like 1509 other filename extensions listed in our database. Users are advised to use Creation Kit software for managing ESM files, although 3 other programs can also handle this type of file. On the official website of Bethesda Softworks LLC developer not only will you find detailed information about theCreation Kit software, but also about ESM and other supported file formats.

Programs which support ESM file extension

The following listing features ESM-compatible programs. Files with ESM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with ESM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening ESM files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with ESM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Creation Kit

Problems with opening and working with ESM files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with ESM files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Creation Kit or one of the recommended programs (for example, Construction Set, Fallout 3, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Creation Kit website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Creation Kit to the latest version

If you already have Creation Kit installed on your systems and ESM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Creation Kit cannot handle files with ESM may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Creation Kit should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Creation Kit to ESM files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate ESM files with latest version of Creation Kit you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the ESM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Creation Kit installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open ESM files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with ESM extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Creation Kit and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with ESM extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the ESM for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the ESM file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the ESM in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the ESM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the ESM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the ESM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the ESM file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with ESM extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Creation Kit

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with ESM extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Elder Scrolls Master Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle ESM files.

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