Can You Transfer Witcher 3 Save From PS4 to PC? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can transfer your Witcher 3 save from PS4 to PC, thanks to the game’s cross-progression feature. This allows you to seamlessly continue your adventure on a different platform, picking up right where you left off. However, the process isn’t always straightforward, and there are a few methods and considerations to keep in mind. This guide will walk you through the most effective methods and answer all your burning questions.
Understanding Witcher 3’s Cross-Progression System
The Witcher 3 implemented a cross-progression system akin to that found in Cyberpunk 2077. This system allows you to upload your most recent manual save, auto-save, and checkpoint save to the GOG cloud from the platform you were last playing on. This cross-save functionality unlocks new flexibility for players who game on multiple devices.
Utilizing GOG Galaxy for Seamless Transfers
The most convenient and officially supported method is to use GOG Galaxy. This platform, developed by CD Projekt Red (the creators of The Witcher 3), provides a direct way to transfer your saves between PS4, PC, and other compatible platforms.
Steps for Transferring Saves via GOG Galaxy:
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Update your game: Ensure that your version of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on both your PS4 and PC is updated to the latest patch. You can check the version number in the game’s main menu.
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Link your GOG account: On your PS4 version of The Witcher 3, go to the main menu and look for an option to link your GOG account. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create a free account on GOG.com.
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Enable Cross-Progression: In the PS4 game’s settings, enable the cross-progression feature. This will allow your save files to be uploaded to the GOG cloud.
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Save your game on PS4: Load the save file you want to transfer. Once loaded, save the game again. This ensures that the latest save is synced to the GOG cloud. Look for a cloud icon next to the save file to confirm it’s been successfully uploaded.
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Launch The Witcher 3 on PC: Open The Witcher 3 on your PC and log in to the same GOG account that you used on your PS4.
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Load the Cross-Progression Save: In the PC version, go to the “Load Game” menu. You should see a prompt for “Cross Progression”. Select this, and your save file from the PS4 should appear, ready to be loaded.
Alternative Methods: Save Wizard MAX (For Advanced Users)
While GOG Galaxy offers the easiest method, some users might explore alternative ways, especially if they encounter issues with the official method. One such option involves using a tool called Save Wizard MAX.
Important Considerations for Save Wizard MAX:
- Cost: Save Wizard MAX is a paid tool, costing around $60 USD. Ensure you purchase the MAX version, as the cheaper version doesn’t support save decryption.
- Technical Expertise: This method requires some technical knowledge and understanding of file management.
- Third-Party Software: Using third-party software comes with inherent risks, so proceed with caution and ensure you download from a reputable source.
General Steps for Save Wizard MAX:
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Extract Save Files from PS4: You’ll need a USB drive formatted to FAT32 or exFAT to transfer the save files from your PS4. Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device. Select The Witcher 3 and copy the save files to your USB drive.
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Decrypt Saves with Save Wizard MAX: Connect the USB drive to your PC and launch Save Wizard MAX. The software will guide you through the process of decrypting the PS4 save files.
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Convert Saves to PC Format: Unfortunately, Save Wizard MAX might not directly convert the files to a format immediately usable by the PC version of The Witcher 3. You might need additional tools or manual editing to ensure compatibility. This is where the process gets complex and requires careful attention.
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Import Saves into The Witcher 3 on PC: Once converted (if necessary), place the save files in the correct directory for The Witcher 3 on your PC. The location varies depending on whether you own the game on GOG, Steam, or another platform, but it is usually in
DocumentsThe Witcher 3gamesaves
.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Game Version Compatibility: Ensure that both your PS4 and PC versions of The Witcher 3 are the same, especially in terms of patches and DLCs. Discrepancies can cause issues with save compatibility.
- GOG Account Consistency: Always use the same GOG account on both platforms. Using different accounts will prevent the cross-progression feature from working.
- Cloud Storage Limits: GOG’s cloud storage has a limit. While The Witcher 3 save files are relatively small, be mindful if you have numerous saves across multiple games.
FAQs: Transferring Witcher 3 Saves from PS4 to PC
1. Do I need the same DLCs on both PS4 and PC for cross-progression to work?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. Inconsistencies in DLC ownership can lead to issues with your transferred save, potentially causing missing items, broken quests, or instability.
2. What if I don’t have GOG Galaxy? Can I still transfer my saves?
While GOG Galaxy is the easiest method, you can attempt using Save Wizard MAX (as described above). However, this method is more complex and requires technical know-how.
3. Is there a limit to how many times I can transfer my save between PS4 and PC?
No, there is no inherent limit. You can transfer your save as many times as you like, as long as you follow the correct procedure.
4. I’m getting an error message when trying to load my cross-progression save on PC. What should I do?
Double-check that your game versions are identical, that you’re logged into the correct GOG account, and that your save file has successfully uploaded to the GOG cloud (indicated by the cloud icon). Try saving a new game on your PS4 and re-uploading it. If the problem persists, check the GOG support forums for troubleshooting tips.
5. Can I transfer my save from PS4 to PC if I have the physical version of The Witcher 3 on PS4?
Yes, the physical or digital version of the game on PS4 doesn’t matter. As long as you can link your GOG account and enable cross-progression, you can transfer your save.
6. Does cross-progression work with the Steam version of The Witcher 3 on PC?
Yes, cross-progression works with the Steam version, as long as you link your Steam account to your GOG account. GOG Galaxy should recognize your Steam installation. GOG is a digital distribution platform with a curated selection of games, an optional gaming client giving you freedom of choice, and a vivid community of gamers. Learn more on the GamesLearningSociety.org website.
7. Can I use a USB drive to manually transfer the save files without GOG Galaxy or Save Wizard?
While you can technically copy the save files to a USB drive, the PS4 saves are encrypted and not directly compatible with the PC version. You’ll need a tool like Save Wizard MAX to decrypt and potentially convert the saves.
8. How do I find the correct save game folder on my PC for The Witcher 3?
The save game folder is typically located in DocumentsThe Witcher 3gamesaves
. However, it might vary slightly depending on your operating system and installation settings.
9. Does this method work for transferring saves between PS4 and other platforms, like Xbox?
Yes, the GOG-based cross-progression system works across PC, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms. The procedure is similar for Xbox.
10. Will transferring my save affect my achievements or trophies?
Generally, achievements and trophies should carry over when you transfer your save. However, some platform-specific achievements might not automatically unlock and might require you to fulfill the criteria again.
11. My cloud save is not showing up on PC. What should I do?
Ensure both the PS4 and PC have the latest version of the game installed. Then in your settings on Playstation 4 make sure that the save file is located in cloud storage.
12. How do I enable cloud saves on my Playstation 4?
First you have to go to settings. Then access Application Saved Data Management and select Auto-Upload.
13. Can I play on the go?
Yes, the game will allow you to continue your progress on different devices as long as they are linked to the same GOG account.
14. Will I lose any progress during the transfer?
As long as you upload the latest save and save to the cloud you should not lose any progress during the transfer process.
15. What happens if my GOG account is banned?
If your GOG account is banned for any reason, you’ll lose access to the cross-progression feature and won’t be able to transfer your saves. Ensure you adhere to GOG’s terms of service to avoid any issues.
By following these steps and considering these FAQs, you should be well-equipped to successfully transfer your Witcher 3 save from your PS4 to your PC and continue your epic adventure without interruption. Enjoy the journey!