How to open a .pak file
Quick, free ways to open PAK on any system.
A .pak file is a Game Package / Archive File. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads PAK yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.
Open a .pak file step by step
- Confirm the file really is a .pak. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
- On Windows, open it with 7-Zip (if ZIP-based) or game-specific modding tools.
- On Mac, use The Unarchiver (if ZIP-based) or game-specific tools.
- On Linux, try 7-Zip / unzip (if ZIP-based) or game-specific tools.
- Still stuck? Convert the .pak to zip (repack, engine-dependent), which opens more widely.
Best apps to open .pak files
Windows
- 7-Zip (if ZIP-based)
- game-specific modding tools
- PakExplorer-style utilities
macOS
- The Unarchiver (if ZIP-based)
- game-specific tools
Linux
- 7-Zip / unzip (if ZIP-based)
- game-specific tools
!
Before you open it: Mostly safe: PAKs contain game assets, not programs. Modified PAKs from mod sites can alter game behaviour, so prefer trusted sources and back up originals before replacing them.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open my .pak file?
Almost always because no installed app understands PAK. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.
How do I open a .pak file?
Try 7-Zip first, since many PAKs are ZIP-based. If that fails, the file uses the game engine's own layout and you need that game's modding or unpacking tool.
Can I delete .pak files to save space?
Not from an installed game: they are its assets, and the game will break or re-download them. Only delete PAKs belonging to mods you no longer use.