.MDL File Extension

Simulation model created with Simulink, a simulation and model-based design application; contains the block diagram and block properties of the simulation.

MDL files are saved in a plain text format and typically include a list of objects. Each object contains a set of properties and values that are delimited by line breaks.

NOTE: The MDL format was replaced by the .SLX model format with the release of Simulink 2012.

Model file used by Warcraft III, a real-time strategy game developed by Blizzard Entertainment; stores a 3D model, including objects, meshes, and textures for buildings and units; allows text-based editing of model properties before generating a binary .MDX file used by Warcraft III.

MDL files use a nested structure to create model properties. For example, a material element may include a layer property which in turn defines a transparent property for the layer.

NOTE: MDL files are the text version of MDX 3D model binary files. They can be converted to the MDX format using the MDLX Converter program. From there, you can use several modeling tools to edit the model.

Three-dimensional model used for characters and creatures in the Half-Life video game; created using polygons and texture mapping for detail; can be seen from different views (wireframe, flatshaded, smoothshaded, and textured) using the Half-Life Model Viewer.

NOTE: QC files are actually used by Valve's Source game engine, so they are not restricted to Half-Life models.

Three-dimensional model of an airplane or other aircraft used by Microsoft Flight Simulator; standard model format used by multiple versions of the Flight Simulator series.

Diagram or model created by Rational Rose software; used for modeling software architecture and design, and creating business models that improve predictability and productivity.

Audio tracking module format used by the DigiTrakker music tracking program.

CAD file created by Lectra Modaris, a clothing design application; saves the "cutter's must" list (or direction card) as well as the geometry for the pieces of the garment; used for saving new fashion design's in men's, women's, and children's clothing.

When a design is complete, it can be sent to a machine cutter that cuts the designed patterns in a roll of fabric or another material.

Model file used by Luigi's Mansion, a Nintendo GameCube game; stores 3D model data for characters, including Luigi, and objects that appear in the game.

Luigi's Mansion mainly uses the MDL format for its models but also uses the .BMD model format for some models in the game.

NOTE: The mdl2obj tool can open Luigi's Mansion MDL files and convert them into .OBJ files.