MPQ

MPQ is an acronym that can refer to several different concepts, depending on the context. The most widely known use in computing and gaming is the MPQ archive format, commonly associated with Blizzard Entertainment.

The MPQ archive format, often referred to by the informal name MoPaQ, is a proprietary container used to package game data such as textures, sounds, maps, and other assets. It organizes data into blocks and tables and supports features such as compression and optional encryption. MPQ archives were used in Blizzard titles dating back to early games like Diablo and Warcraft, and continued to be employed in many Blizzard projects through the early 2000s, including StarCraft and Warcraft III. The format facilitated patching and modding, which contributed to its long association with Blizzard’s PC games.

Because MPQ archives are widely documented and reverse-engineered, multiple third-party tools and libraries exist to read and modify them. Notable examples include open-source libraries that provide access to MPQ contents and editors used by the modding community. These tools enable extraction, inspection, and patch creation, helping researchers and fans study game assets or create compatible content.

MPQ can also be used as an acronym in other domains, where its meaning is specific to a particular organization, field, or project. As with many abbreviations, the intended interpretation depends on context. If you have a specific MPQ in mind, providing the domain or usage scenario can clarify which meaning is intended.