Convert RPY to MP4

What is the purpose of rpy to mp4 export?

The most likely reason someone is searching for ways to convert rpy to mp4, is because they are looking for the best option for exporting replays from an iRacing online game to a standard MP4 video. Often, it is for reasons to make an archive of older replays or for uploading to an online community, YouTube or other streaming services.

About rpy files and iRacing

RPY game replay file format is a unique proprietary format used in iRacing and contains instructions on reconstructing the race, car position, etc. These files are not videos, although iRacing in some versions also offered a direct way to export them to video. However, some users often reported performance issues, so it might not work for everyone. The default video format for export is MP4, which presents a direct way for rpy to mp4 export.

iRacing is a popular sim racing game that serves as a centralized platform for organizing, hosting, and officiating online races on virtual courses worldwide.

Steps on how to export iRacing rpy replays to MP4 with the screen recording tool

The usual workaround is to use one of the third-party screen recording tools such as Fraps, Camtasia, or OBS or take advantage of the innate function of Nvidia GeForce Experience or Radeon ReLive. Here's how to accomplish it:

Prepare the screen recording utility

To begin with, install the screen recording program and become acquainted with its functionality. You can experiment with key binding and output formats, but keep in mind that some iRacing races can be rather long. You do not want to waste time remaking the video several times.

Prepare your replay

If you have downloaded the rpy game replay from the Internet, put it in the default Documents/iRacing/replay folder and check if it works correctly in the game client. The new replay should be visible in the replay tab.

Play replay using iRacing and record it

You can then play the replaying using the big green Launch button and record it using your screen recorder. Once finished, you may want to edit the video, crop any unwanted content with any video editor you are familiar with, and export it to MP4 if your software does not save to this format by default.

What about rpy files from Touhou?

Touhou Project, also known simply as Touhou, is a bullet hell shoot 'em up video game series created by one-man independent Japanese doujin soft developer Team Shanghai Alice. Since 1995, this includes 19 mainline games and 6 spin-offs. These games also use the .rpy file extension for their replays, but of course, it is a completely different file format. The usual workaround remains the same as for iRacing, i.e., using screen recording software while the replay is being played back.