How to Retrieve .GMA Files Lost After Accidental Deletion

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .GMA file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

How to Retrieve .GMA Files Lost After Accidental Deletion

What is a .GMA file?

Addon file used by Garry's Mod, a sandbox game that revolves around building random objects; contains data that modifies gameplay, such as character appearance, game modes, weapon skin, environment layout, maps and more.

What Are Common Causes of ".GMA" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes for ".GMA" (Garry's Mod Addon) files to be lost or fail:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".GMA" files while managing their game files or cleaning up their storage.
  2. File corruption: ".GMA" files can become corrupted due to various reasons such as improper downloads, interrupted file transfers, or issues with storage devices.
  3. Software conflicts: Sometimes, conflicts between different software or incompatible versions of software can lead to ".GMA" file failures or errors.
  4. Malware or viruses: Malicious software or viruses can infect and damage ".GMA" files, making them inaccessible or causing them to fail.
  5. Hardware failure: If the storage device containing the ".GMA" files fails or becomes damaged, it can result in the loss or failure of the files.
  6. Operating system issues: Problems with the operating system, such as crashes or errors, can also lead to ".GMA" file failures or loss.
  7. Improper installation or extraction: If the installation or extraction process of ".GMA" files is not done correctly, it can cause errors or result in incomplete files.
  8. Incompatible addons or mods: Using incompatible addons or mods with Garry's Mod can cause conflicts or errors, leading to ".GMA" file failures.

It is important to regularly backup ".GMA" files and take precautions to prevent these common causes of file loss or failure.

How to recover lost ".GMA" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".GMA" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".GMA" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".GMA" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".GMA" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software
  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".GMA" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type
  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored
  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan
  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery
  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".GMA" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo garry's Mod Addon File image file file?

Programs that open ".GMA" files

Windows
Facepunch Studios Garry's Mod Facepunch Studios Garry's Mod
Crowbar Crowbar
Garry's Mod Publish Tool Garry's Mod Publish Tool
Gmad Gmad
Mac
Facepunch Studios Garry's Mod Facepunch Studios Garry's Mod

Additional Information

  • File type: Garry's Mod Addon File

  • File extension: .GMA

  • Developer: Facepunch Studios

  • Category: Game Files

  • Format: N/A

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 12:01 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .GMA files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is the purpose of the .GMA file format?

    The .GMA file format is used in the video game Garry's Mod. It is a compressed archive file format that is used to package and distribute game content, such as maps, models, textures, and scripts. The purpose of the .GMA file format is to provide a convenient and organized way to share user-created content within the Garry's Mod community. These files can be easily downloaded and installed by users, allowing them to enhance their gameplay experience with new content created by other players.

  • How does the .GMA format differ from other file formats used for game assets?

    The .GMA format, also known as Garry's Mod Addon files, is specific to the game Garry's Mod. It differs from other file formats used for game assets in the following ways:

    1. Customization: The .GMA format allows users to create custom content for Garry's Mod, such as maps, models, textures, and sounds. This format is designed specifically for Garry's Mod and is not used in other games or software.
    2. Compression: .GMA files use compression techniques to reduce file size and optimize storage. This allows for efficient distribution and sharing of game assets. The compression format used in .GMA files is LZMA, which helps to significantly reduce the file size.
    3. Integration: Unlike other file formats that may require manual installation or configuration, .GMA files can be easily installed and managed within Garry's Mod. Users can simply place the .GMA file in the appropriate folder, and the game will automatically recognize and integrate the content.
    4. Security: The .GMA format provides a level of security for the game assets. When a .GMA file is installed, it gets encrypted using the user's Steam ID, making it difficult for unauthorized users to modify or access the content.
    5. Versioning: .GMA files support versioning, allowing developers to update and distribute new versions of their game assets. Users can easily update their installed addons by downloading and installing the latest .GMA file, ensuring they have the most recent content.

    Overall, the .GMA format is tailored specifically for Garry's Mod, providing a convenient and secure way to distribute and use custom game assets within the game.

  • Are there any limitations or compatibility issues associated with using .GMA formats in game development?

    Yes, there are some limitations and compatibility issues associated with using .GMA (Garry's Mod Addon) formats in game development. Here are a few:

    1. Platform Limitations: .GMA files are primarily used in Garry's Mod, a sandbox physics game, and are designed to work specifically with that game. They may not be directly compatible with other game engines or platforms.
    2. File Structure: .GMA files have a specific file structure that may not be easily readable or editable outside of Garry's Mod. This can limit the ability to modify or customize the content within the file.
    3. Dependency on Garry's Mod: .GMA files often rely on specific features, functions, or assets provided by Garry's Mod. If you try to use a .GMA file in a different game engine or platform, you may encounter compatibility issues due to missing dependencies.
    4. Licensing and Legal Considerations: Some .GMA files may contain copyrighted content, such as models, textures, or sounds, which may have specific licensing restrictions. Using such files in your game without proper permission or licensing can lead to legal issues.
    5. Limited Portability: If you plan to distribute your game using .GMA files, you may face limitations in terms of portability. Players will need to have Garry's Mod installed to run the game, which can limit your potential audience.

    It is important to consider these limitations and compatibility issues before incorporating .GMA files into your game development process.

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