WORLD File – What is .world file and how to open it?

Definition and Use

A WORLD file is a data file associated with WorldPainter, a program used to create custom Minecraft worlds. It stores all the information necessary to define the terrain, biomes, and other features of a world, allowing users to export it into Minecraft and play on their creations. WORLD files are essential for sharing custom worlds with others and for preserving the work of worldbuilders.

Structure and Content

WORLD files are saved in a proprietary format and contain a collection of XML tags that define the world’s parameters. These tags include information such as the world’s seed, heightmap data, biome distribution, and the positions of various structures and objects. Additionally, WORLD files may include custom textures, models, and scripts to enhance the visual and gameplay aspects of the world. This allows users to create highly detailed and immersive environments that can be tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Method 1: Using WorldPainter

WorldPainter is a terrain-generating software primarily used for crafting realistic landscapes in video games. It allows users to import and export world files (.WORLD) that contain data on terrain, water bodies, and other elements. To open a WORLD file using WorldPainter:

1. Launch WorldPainter and create a new world or open an existing one.
2. Go to the “File” menu and select “Open World.”
3. Navigate to and select the desired WORLD file.
4. The file will be imported into the software, and the terrain data will be displayed in the 3D viewport.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Software

If you do not have WorldPainter installed, there are several third-party programs that can open WORLD files. These include:

• MCEdit: A versatile Minecraft world editor that can open and edit WORLD files, allowing users to make modifications and export the world in various formats.
• WorldToImage: A specialized tool that converts WORLD files into 2D images, providing a visual representation of the terrain data.
• Anvil: A Minecraft world editor that can open WORLD files and analyze their contents, but may have limited functionality compared to WorldPainter or MCEdit.

WorldPainter File Format

A WORLD file is a map file that stores the terrain and other elements of a world created in WorldPainter, a powerful terrain generation tool. It contains information about the terrain’s heightmap, biomes, vegetation, and other features. WORLD files enable users to load and modify their custom-created worlds, allowing for the generation of vast and detailed landscapes.

Uses of WORLD Files

WORLD files serve as the primary format for storing and sharing custom-made worlds in WorldPainter. They can be used to:

• Create and edit unique and complex landscapes
• Import custom textures and objects into the generated world
• Share and collaborate on world-building projects with other users
• Export generated worlds into various file formats, such as MCEdit and Minecraft Java Edition, for further customization or gameplay

Other Extensions