MD2 is the Quake II model format — a single vertex-animated mesh with keyframed frames baked in. Thousands of classic game models exist in it.
Typical use: Convert MD2 models to glTF to preserve frames as animation targets in modern engines.
About the MD2 format
MD2 is Quake II's model format: one mesh whose frames are baked vertex-by-vertex into the file — the original "vertex animation" that predates skeletal rigging. Every enemy, weapon and pickup in Quake II (1997) is an MD2, and the format became the de-facto standard for early modding.
three.js parses MD2 including its frame data, so a converted glTF carries the animation frames as morph targets — the retro look arrives intact in modern engines.
Strengths
- ✓ Huge library of classic models
- ✓ Frame data survives as morph targets
- ✓ Simple binary layout
Limitations
- ✗ Fixed 8-bit texture skin
- ✗ Small vertex budgets by modern standards
- ✗ No materials beyond one skin
- Structure
- IDP2 header + frames + GL commands
- Types / schema
- Binary vertex-animated mesh
- Compatibility
- Quake II, three.js, ioquake3
- Best for
- Retro game model conversion
Convert MD2 to…
5 direct directions plus 19 workflows, sorted A–Z; 🔥 marks popular targets.
Frequently asked questions
What is a MD2 file?
MD2 is the Quake II model format — a single vertex-animated mesh with keyframed frames baked in. Thousands of classic game models exist in it.
How do I convert MD2 files online?
Pick a target format from the "Convert MD2 to…" list below, drop your file and hit convert. Everything runs in your browser — no install, no upload, no watermark, no limits.
Is it safe to convert MD2 files here?
Yes. Every conversion is performed by your own device inside the browser — files never leave for a server, and the page keeps working even offline.
Which formats can MD2 convert to?
This page lists all 24 directions across documents, images, audio, video, spreadsheets and archives — each one is its own free converter page.