DFF File Extension

What is DFF file?

File with DFF extension contains a 3D model created using RenderWare graphics engine. The format was used for games such as:

• Grand Theft Auto 3,
• Grand Theft Auto: Vice City,
• Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas,
• Need For Speed: Undercover,
• Burnout series.

A 3D object model file can compose section that define textures, reflection materials, or object behavior during collisions.

The future of RenderWare engine.

RenderWare versions 4 and later no longer use DFF files in favor of other file formats. In 2006 the division that was in charge of of RenderWare was closed, and the engine is no longer available for purchase. The project is officially discontinued.

Programs which support DFF file extension

Programs that can handle DFF files are as follows. Files with DFF 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: 12/03/2022

How to open file with DFF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening DFF files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with DFF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with DFF files.

Step 1. Install ZModeler software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DFF files is that no program that can handle DFF files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install ZModeler or one to the listed programs: RW Analyze. 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 ZModeler website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of ZModeler

You still cannot access DFF files although ZModeler 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 DFF files are not compatible with ZModeler. The most recent version of ZModeler is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open DFF files to ZModeler

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate DFF files with latest version of ZModeler 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

• Clicking the DFF 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
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where ZModeler is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DFF files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with DFF extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select ZModeler and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with DFF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the DFF for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the DFF file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the DFF 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. If the scanner detected that the DFF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic DFF file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 DFF file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the RenderWare Model Format file again.

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

If the systems has insufficient resources to open DFF files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

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 RenderWare Model Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with DFF files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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