Does Uninstalling a Game on Steam Delete Saves?
When it comes to uninstalling a game on Steam, one of the most common concerns is whether the saves will be deleted. After all, hours of progress and effort can be lost if the saves are not preserved. In this article, we’ll delve into the answer to this question and provide you with a comprehensive guide on what happens to your saves when you uninstall a game on Steam.
Does Uninstalling a Game on Steam Delete Saves?
No, uninstalling a game on Steam does not delete saves.
According to Steam’s official policy, when you uninstall a game, the saves are not deleted. This means that you can reinstall the game at a later time and access your previous saves without losing any progress.
Why Don’t Saves Get Deleted?
Steam uses a unique system to store game saves, which allows them to be preserved even after uninstallation. Here’s how it works:
- Steam Cloud: Steam Cloud is a cloud-based storage system that saves your game progress, including saves, to the Steam servers. This means that your saves are stored remotely and can be accessed from any device connected to your Steam account.
- Local Save Files: In addition to Steam Cloud, game saves are also stored locally on your computer. These local save files are not deleted when you uninstall the game, and they can be accessed manually if needed.
What Happens to Saves When You Uninstall a Game on Steam?
When you uninstall a game on Steam, the following happens to your saves:
- Steam Cloud Saves: Your Steam Cloud saves are not deleted, and they remain stored on the Steam servers. This means that you can access your saves from any device connected to your Steam account.
- Local Save Files: Your local save files are not deleted, but they are moved to a folder called "Saved Games" in your Steam directory. This folder is usually located at
C:Users<YourUsername>DocumentsMy GamesSteamSaved Games<GameName>on Windows or~/Library/Application Support/Steam/Saved Games/<GameName>on Mac. - Game Settings: Your game settings, such as graphics settings and controller settings, are also preserved and can be accessed when you reinstall the game.
What About DLC and Expansion Saves?
When you uninstall a game on Steam, your DLC (Downloadable Content) and expansion saves are also preserved. This means that you can reinstall the game and access your DLC and expansion saves without losing any progress.
What About Games That Use Their Own Save Systems?
Some games may use their own save systems, which are not stored on Steam Cloud or locally on your computer. In these cases, the saves may be deleted when you uninstall the game. However, this is rare and usually indicated in the game’s documentation or settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, uninstalling a game on Steam does not delete saves. Your saves are stored on Steam Cloud and locally on your computer, and they can be accessed from any device connected to your Steam account. This means that you can reinstall the game at a later time and access your previous saves without losing any progress.
Important Tips
- Backup Your Saves: While Steam preserves your saves, it’s still a good idea to backup your saves regularly to prevent loss of progress in case something goes wrong.
- Check Game Settings: Before uninstalling a game, check the game’s settings to see if there are any specific save settings or options that you need to configure.
- Use Steam’s Backup and Restore Feature: Steam offers a built-in backup and restore feature that allows you to backup and restore your game saves. This feature can be accessed through the Steam settings menu.
Summary Table
| Save Type | What Happens When You Uninstall a Game on Steam |
|---|---|
| Steam Cloud Saves | Preserved and stored on Steam servers |
| Local Save Files | Moved to "Saved Games" folder in Steam directory |
| Game Settings | Preserved and can be accessed when you reinstall the game |
| DLC and Expansion Saves | Preserved and can be accessed when you reinstall the game |
By understanding how Steam handles saves, you can uninstall games with confidence, knowing that your progress will be preserved. Remember to backup your saves regularly and take advantage of Steam’s built-in backup and restore feature to ensure that your game saves are always safe.