Files with the .3DS extension contain three-dimensional image data, subdivided into blocks called “chunks”: they contain an ID and a length, as well as information concerning shapes, lighting, and observation points, creating a description of a 3D-scene. The image encompasses the data grid, material attributes, bitmap references, smoothing data group, view configuration, and camera location, as well as data about lighting, and, if applicable, animation data.

The software that used to create 3DS files was Autodesk 3D Studio – however, in newer versions, the format was replaced by .MAX. Nonetheless, 3DS files are still very common in use.