ARDUBOY File

What are ARDUBOY files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an ARDUBOY file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your ARDUBOY files.

What is an ARDUBOY file?

An .ARDUBOY file is an Arduboy Game Package file.

An Arduboy Game Package is a complete game bundle format used by the Arduboy open-source handheld gaming device to package everything needed for a single game into one file. It groups together the compiled game code, game graphics, and metadata so that game launchers, emulators, or the device itself can present game details, display images, and upload the game to the hardware from a single source.

The bundle is created by placing several required files - most importantly a compiled Intel HEX game file, a banner image for game selection menus, one or more preview screenshots, and a JSON metadata file (info.json) with fields like title, author, version, and input configuration - into a folder. The folder is then compressed into a ZIP archive and renamed with the format's file-extension. Game launchers like Arduboy Manager or Team A.R.G. Game Loader interpret the info.json, show the banner and screenshots, and use the HEX file to program the device or run the game in emulators.

Technically, an archive in this format begins with the signature PK\u0003\u0004 at offset zero (standard for ZIP archives). Inside it contains files named exactly info.json, at least one .HEX (compiled code), and graphics files such as BANNER.PNG (banner), and usually screenshot PNGs.

Relevant identifiers in the package include the JSON metadata keys (title, version, author, input), the presence of a .HEX file for game code, and specific filenames like BANNER.PNG. files.

How to open ARDUBOY files

Important: Different programs may use files with the ARDUBOY file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your ARDUBOY file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

We have not yet verified any programs for Windows that work with this specific file format. If you know one, please use the 'Suggest a program' link below. Thanks!

Last updated: August 20, 2026

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