PGN File Extension

What is PGN file?

PGN (Portable Game Notation) is the most popular chess game data standard. PGN files store chess match moves along with match date, location, event name, round, result of the game, and player names.

Data structure of PGN file

Header data in PGN file is formatted using tags, while player movements using ‘movetext’ keywords, a syntax based on Standard Algebraic Notation (SAN) format.

Data saved in text format

PGN files store information in plain text format (ASCII), and thus can be easily read by humans and programs alike.

Commonly used standard

PGN format is commonly used for storing and sharing (including online) chess match data. PGN files can be used for post-match and player progress analysis.

Programs which support PGN file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PGN files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PGN 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: 10/22/2022

How to open file with PGN extension?

Being unable to open files with PGN extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with PGN 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 ChessBase

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PGN files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing ChessBase or different compatible program, such as Apple Chess, PGN Viewer, WinBoard. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PGN files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit ChessBase website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of ChessBase and update if needed

You still cannot access PGN files although ChessBase is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why PGN files are not compatible with ChessBase. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using ChessBase.

Step 3. Assign ChessBase to PGN files

If you have the latest version of ChessBase installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PGN on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the PGN file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where ChessBase is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PGN files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PGN file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select ChessBase and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PGN extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the PGN is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the PGN file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The PGN may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the PGN 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. PGN file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the PGN file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the PGN file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open ChessBase

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Portable Game Notation Format file. It may be the case that the PGN files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PGN file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on PGN file.