SMC File Extension

What is SMC file?

Files with .SMC extension store Super Nintendo game ROM images. Name of the extensions is derived from Super MagiCom, a software tool developed by Front Fareast Industrial, which is one of the most popular ROM converting software tools. The converter copied data from cartridges and saved in .SMC files (for multi-cartridge games additional SMC files with added .001, .002, etc. suffix were generated). Each cartridge stored a single game.

SMC files are chiefly used by SNES emulators (SNES stands for Super Nintendo Entertainment System). SNES emulators are available for desktop PC (Windows, Mac or Linux) and can be used to play SNES games saved in SMC files. Such emulators support various controllers and display modes to recreate the original experience as close as possible. Mobile versions are also available for Android systems. The most popular SNES emulators are:

• Snes9x
• ZSNES
• RetroArch
• Mednafen
• Bsnes
• OpenEmu

SMC game images were used to distribute illegal games, although the format was designed for backing-up game ROMs in case of cartridge data loss or damage, or private sharing of games with other users. In Japan all tools that allow copying game ROMs were referred to as magicoms - magic computers.

Programs which support SMC file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support SMC files. Files with SMC extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 03/09/2022

How to open file with SMC extension?

Being unable to open files with SMC extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with SMC 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. Download and install ZSNES

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening SMC files is that no program that can handle SMC files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing ZSNES or different compatible program, such as Snes9x, SnEM, SNEeSe. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support SMC 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 ZSNES website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening SMC files still occur even after installing ZSNES, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of ZSNES is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that ZSNES cannot handle files with SMC may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of ZSNES is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Super Nintendo Game ROM files with ZSNES

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate SMC files with latest version of ZSNES you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SMC file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ZSNES is installed, check the Always use this app to open SMC 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 SMC file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with SMC extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the SMC for errors

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

1. Check the SMC file for viruses or malware

If the SMC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. SMC file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with SMC extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic SMC file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with SMC extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support SMC files. Close all running programs and try opening the SMC file.

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 Super Nintendo Game ROM file. It may be the case that the SMC files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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