What is an XCZ file? An XCZ file is an NX Card Image ( .XCI ) file that has been compressed to reduce its file size. Just like XCI files, XCZ files contain encrypted backups of Nintendo Switch games. Gamers use XCZ files to play Switch games using emulators and custom console firmware .

More Information Custom Nintendo Switch operating systems, such as Atmosphere, and Nintendo Switch emulators, such as yuzu and Ryujinx, allow players to load and play games saved as XCI files. (Provided players also have access to the master keys associated with the files.) However, XCI files often have quite large file sizes, so players sometimes have difficulty sharing XCI files with each other. To circumvent this issue, nicoboss and other members of the Nintendo Switch community developed the XCZ file format. Using the nsz compression program, Switch players can compress large XCI files into smaller XCZ files. They can share the XCZ files with other players (who can use nsz to restore the files to their original state).