GBC File Extension

What is GBC file?

Files with the GBC extension belong to the category of game image files.

What do GBC files contain?

Files with the GBC extension contain images of games designed for the portable Nintendo Game Boy consoles. These devices have been developed since 1989. The version with a color screen (Game Boy Color) appeared in 1998 and also supported older, monochromatic titles. The files with the GBC extension store complete game images, which include:

• graphics and images,
• soundtracks,
• game codes,
• text resources, and
• hardware drivers.

What are GBC files used for?

Files with the GBC extension are widespread in the community of fans of Nintendo Game Boy devices. There is software available on the market that, installed on personal computers, emulates the operation of the console. Applications of this type use files with the GBC extension. Thanks to this, the user can run their favorite title on a machine operated by the Windows, Linux, or MacOS X system. It should be emphasized that GBC files do not store modified titles, but original game files. They cannot be run outside the emulator environment, but its use provides an accurate representation of the operation of the iconic Nintendo Game Boy console.

Programs which support GBC file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support GBC files. Files with GBC suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 02/27/2024

How to open file with GBC extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening GBC files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with GBC files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the BGB

Problems with opening and working with GBC files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with GBC files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install BGB or one to the listed programs: Basic Boy, PlayGuy, GEST. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit BGB website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update BGB to the latest version

If you already have BGB installed on your systems and GBC 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 BGB cannot handle files with GBC may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of BGB should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Game Boy Color ROM files with BGB

After installing BGB (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open GBC files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the GBC 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
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where BGB is installed, check the Always use this app to open GBC files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected GBC file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select BGB and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with GBC extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the GBC for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper GBC file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the GBC file for viruses or malware

If the GBC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. GBC file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the GBC file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the GBC file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. If the GBC file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Game Boy Color ROM file.

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

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Game Boy Color ROM file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with GBC files affecting older versions of given software.

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