XNB File Extension

What is XNB file?

XNB is a compiled archive file that stores resources for a game developed using XNA Game Studio. XNB is a binary format and can contain images, audio data, and many other resources. XNB archives cannot be unpacked; however, some simple file objects can be extracted.

XNA Game Studio

XNA is a set of development tools for creating games for Microsoft Windows, Windows Phone, and Xbox systems. XNA development environment is based on Visual Studio Express and can be downloaded for free. It offers rich set of tools and features for game developers, foe example the XNB format.

Programs which support XNB file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support XNB files. XNB files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 01/28/2023

How to open file with XNB extension?

Being unable to open files with XNB extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with XNB extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Microsoft XNA Game Studio software

Problems with opening and working with XNB files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XNB files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft XNA Game Studio or one of the recommended programs (for example, Terraria, XNB Exporter) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support XNB files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Microsoft XNA Game Studio installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft XNA Game Studio and update if needed

If the problems with opening XNB files still occur even after installing Microsoft XNA Game Studio, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft XNA Game Studio is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Microsoft XNA Game Studio installed, it may not support XNB format. The latest version of Microsoft XNA Game Studio should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open XNB files to Microsoft XNA Game Studio

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate XNB files with latest version of Microsoft XNA Game Studio 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.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the XNB file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft XNA Game Studio installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open XNB files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected XNB file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with XNB extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the XNB file is complete and free of 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 XNB file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the XNB file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the XNB is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. XNB file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic XNB file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with XNB extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the XNA Game Studio Binary Package file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft XNA Game Studio

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with XNA Game Studio Binary Package files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XNB files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the XNB 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 XNB file.