TRANSFER CHECKLIST

How to move a game save without losing the original

Use a copy-first workflow. The goal is to make the destination work while keeping a known-good source untouched.

1. Close the game

Do not copy active save data while the game is running. Close the application first so that it is not still writing progress.

2. Find the current save

Identify the folder or files that contain the actual progress. Do not assume the game's installation directory is where saves live.

3. Create a separate backup

Copy the working save to another location before attempting the transfer. Keep that copy unchanged.

4. Prepare the destination

Confirm that the destination installation is the version and platform you intend to use. Compatibility problems are easier to diagnose when only one variable changes at a time.

5. Copy the save

Place a copy of the known-good save into the destination's expected save location. Avoid deleting the original at this stage.

Safe sequence: copy → test → confirm → make a new backup. Do not move first and hope you can recover the source later.

6. Test before cleanup

Launch the destination, load the save, and check important progress. Only after a successful test should you consider cleaning up duplicate files.