XWI File – What is .xwi file and how to open it?

Definition of XWI Files

An XWI file is a game data archive used by the LucasArts space combat simulation game, X-Wing. The XWI file format contains various game resources, including mission briefings, objectives, dialog, and enemy AI. It plays a crucial role in defining the gameplay and narrative of the X-Wing missions.

Structure and Content of XWI Files

XWI files are composed of a series of sub-records, each containing a specific type of data. These sub-records include mission information, pilot skill levels, ship performance characteristics, and target coordinates. The structure of XWI files allows modders to create custom missions and campaigns, expanding the game’s replayability and offering endless possibilities for player-created content.

Opening XWI Files with the Official X-Wing Mission Editor

X-Wing Mission (XWI) files are mission files created by LucasArts’ X-Wing Mission Editor. The official editor for opening XWI files is the X-Wing Mission Editor itself. This software allows users to create, edit, and export X-Wing mission files. To open an XWI file in the X-Wing Mission Editor, simply launch the editor and select “Open” from the File menu. Navigate to the location of the XWI file and select it to open it in the editor. Once the file is open, you can view and edit the mission parameters, objectives, and other settings.

Alternative Methods for Opening XWI Files

In addition to the official X-Wing Mission Editor, there are a few other tools that can be used to open XWI files. However, these tools may not have all the same features and functionality as the official editor. One popular alternative is the X-Wing Alliance File Manager (XAFM). XAFM is a freeware tool that can be used to open, edit, and export XWI files. It also allows users to convert XWI files to other formats, such as XML and JSON. Another option for opening XWI files is the X-Wing Mission Workshop (XMW). XMW is a standalone tool that can be used to open, edit, and export XWI files. It also includes a number of features for working with X-Wing mission files, such as a mission editor, a graphical interface, and a debugger.

XWI File Format

XWI files are data files used by the space combat simulator game X-Wing. They contain mission data, such as the map, objectives, and enemy placement. XWI files are essential for playing the game, as they provide the necessary information to load and run missions.

The XWI file format is a binary format, which means that it is not human-readable. However, there are a number of tools available that can be used to view and edit XWI files. These tools can be used to create new missions, modify existing missions, or simply view the contents of an XWI file.

XWI files are typically stored in the game’s data directory. The default location for the data directory is C:\Program Files (x86)\LucasArts\X-Wing\Data. However, the data directory can be changed by modifying the game’s shortcut. To do this, right-click on the game’s shortcut and select “Properties”. In the “Target” field, add the following command-line switch:


-DataDirectory="C:\Path\To\Data\Directory"


Replace “C:\Path\To\Data\Directory” with the actual path to the data directory.

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