What is a BFRES file? A BFRES file is an archive that a Nintendo Wii U game uses to store game assets. It typically contains an in-game character or item model, as well as related textures and animations. Large BFRES files are often compressed using Yaz0 compression and saved as .SZS files.

More Information Many Wii U games, but most notably Mario Kart 8, store game models, textures, and animations in BFRES files. Different varieties of BFRES files exist, but all store some combination of: Model data Texture data Skeleton animations Shader parameters Color animations Texture SRT animations Texture pattern animations Bone visibility animations Material visibility animations Shape animations Scene animations Embedded files Most Wii U players will never encounter a BFRES file. However, Wii U modders and other enthusiasts sometimes extract BFRES files from Wii U games, modify the BFRES files' included assets, and then re-import the files into the game they came from. NOTE: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stores 3D models in .SBFRES files, which are compressed BFRES files.