SFC File Extension

What is SFC file?

SFC files are associated with SuperNintendo gaming console (sometimes referred to as SNES). SFC files store game ROM images. SFC ROM files can also be opened using SNES emulators available for desktop PCs. SFC format was used for games of Asian markets (where the console was known as Super Famicon), while games for European and American markets were distributed as SMC images. The distinction is important for some games that were never released in both Americas

Some legal aspects

The legality of emulators is a tricky issue. According to the current law it is fully legal to use an emulator that has access to the original BIOS of the device emulated. This also applies to .SFC and .SMC files. Some websites that offer ROMs for download warn users that ROMs should be deleted within 24 or 48 hours from the time of download. Polish law does not recognized such rule and only states that the protection of author’s economic rights extends until 70 years after the death of the creator of the work.

Programs which support SFC file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SFC files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. SFC files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 04/16/2022

How to open file with SFC extension?

Being unable to open files with SFC extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Super Nintendo ROM files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install ZSNES

Problems with opening and working with SFC files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with SFC files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install ZSNES or one to the listed programs: Snes9x, no$sns, SnEM. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support SFC files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading ZSNES installed is by going to developer’s website (ZSNES Development Team) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

You still cannot access SFC files although ZSNES is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why SFC files are not compatible with ZSNES. The latest version of ZSNES should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign ZSNES to SFC files

After installing ZSNES (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SFC files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the SFC file and choose Open with option
• 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 ZSNES installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open SFC files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SFC file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select ZSNES and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with SFC extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the SFC is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the SFC file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the SFC file for viruses or malware

If the SFC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the SFC file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the SFC file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the SFC file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with SFC extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with SFC 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 Super Nintendo ROM files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SFC files affecting older versions of given software.

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