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How to Move Fortnite to Another Drive: A Comprehensive Guide

Want to move your Fortnite installation to a new drive? Whether you’re upgrading to a faster SSD, freeing up space on your primary drive, or just reorganizing your game library, moving Fortnite is simpler than you might think. The easiest method involves using the Epic Games Launcher to uninstall and reinstall the game, specifying the new location during the reinstallation process. While this is straightforward, there are alternative methods for those who want to avoid redownloading the entire game.

Method 1: The Uninstall and Reinstall Method (Recommended)

This is the most reliable and recommended method, as it ensures all files are correctly moved and configured.

Open the Epic Games Launcher: Launch the Epic Games Launcher from your desktop or start menu.
Navigate to your Library: Click on “Library” in the left-hand sidebar.
Locate Fortnite: Find Fortnite in your list of installed games.
Uninstall Fortnite: Click the three dots next to Fortnite and select “Uninstall.” Confirm the uninstallation.
Initiate Reinstallation: Once uninstalled, click on Fortnite in your Library to start the installation process.
Choose the New Installation Location: During the installation, the launcher will prompt you to choose an installation location. Select the new drive and folder where you want to install Fortnite.
Install the Game: Click “Install” and wait for the download and installation process to complete.

This method ensures a clean installation and avoids potential issues caused by manually moving files.

Method 2: The Backup and Restore Method (For Experienced Users)

This method involves backing up your Fortnite installation, starting a partial installation in the new location, replacing the partially downloaded files with your backup, and then verifying the game files. It can save time if you have a slow internet connection.

Exit the Epic Games Launcher: Ensure the Epic Games Launcher is completely closed. Check your system tray to confirm it’s not running in the background.
Backup your Fortnite Installation: Locate your current Fortnite installation folder. The default location is usually C:Program FilesEpic GamesFortnite. Copy this entire folder to an external drive or another location on your computer.
Start a Partial Installation: In the Epic Games Launcher, start the installation of Fortnite in the new location you desire. Let it download a small amount of data (a few hundred MBs).
Cancel the Installation: Once a small amount of data has been downloaded, cancel the installation.
Replace the New Folder with your Backup: Navigate to the partially created Fortnite installation folder in the new location. Delete all the files and folders within this directory and replace them with the contents of your Fortnite backup folder.
Resume Installation and Verify: In the Epic Games Launcher, resume the Fortnite installation. The launcher should now recognize the existing files and begin verifying them. This process may take some time.
Let the Installation Complete: Once the verification is complete, the installation should finish, and you’ll be able to launch Fortnite from its new location.

Important Considerations:

This method is more complex and requires a good understanding of file management.
Ensure the backup is complete and uncorrupted.
If the verification process fails, you may need to delete the files in the new location and try again or resort to the uninstall/reinstall method.

Method 3: Manually Moving Manifest Files (Advanced)

This method involves manipulating the Epic Games Launcher’s manifest files. Only use this if you are comfortable editing system files.

Close the Epic Games Launcher: Make sure the Epic Games Launcher is completely closed.
Locate Manifest Files: Navigate to C:ProgramDataEpicEpicGamesLauncherDataManifests. You will see .item files, one of them representing Fortnite.
Move the Fortnite Folder: Move your Fortnite installation folder (usually C:Program FilesEpic GamesFortnite) to the desired new location.
Edit the Manifest File: Open the Fortnite .item file in a text editor like Notepad.
Modify the Install Location: Locate the line that specifies the “InstallLocation.” Change the value of this line to the new path of your Fortnite folder.
Save the Manifest File: Save the changes to the .item file.
Restart the Epic Games Launcher: Launch the Epic Games Launcher. It should now recognize Fortnite in its new location.

Important Considerations:

Incorrectly editing the manifest file can cause the Epic Games Launcher to malfunction.
Make a backup of the manifest file before editing it.
Ensure the new path is correct and accessible.

Troubleshooting

Epic Games Launcher Not Recognizing the Game: If the launcher doesn’t recognize the game after moving it, try verifying the files through the launcher’s options menu (if available). If that doesn’t work, try uninstalling and reinstalling.
Installation Errors: Ensure you have enough free space on the new drive. Also, check for any permissions issues that might be preventing the launcher from writing to the new location.
Game Crashes: If the game crashes after being moved, try verifying the game files through the launcher. If crashes persist, a clean uninstall and reinstall is recommended.

Additional Tips

SSD vs. HDD: Installing Fortnite on an SSD (Solid State Drive) will significantly improve loading times and overall performance compared to an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).
Free Up Space: Before moving Fortnite, consider freeing up space on your current drive by uninstalling unnecessary programs or deleting temporary files.
Cloud Saves: Make sure Cloud Saves are enabled in the Epic Games Launcher settings to prevent losing your game progress.

Conclusion

Moving Fortnite to another drive is a relatively simple process, especially when using the uninstall and reinstall method. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully relocate your Fortnite installation and enjoy faster loading times and improved performance. Remember to choose the method that best suits your technical expertise and comfort level. Consider the impact that gaming can have on learning outcomes and explore the work of the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will moving Fortnite delete my game progress? No, your game progress is typically stored in the cloud via Epic Games’ servers. Make sure Cloud Saves are enabled in the Epic Games Launcher settings.
How much space does Fortnite require? Fortnite requires at least 26 GB of storage space, but with updates and additional content, it can exceed 60 GB or more. It’s best to have at least 80-100 GB free on the drive where you install it.
Can I move other Epic Games games using the same methods? Yes, the same methods described above can be used to move other games installed through the Epic Games Launcher.
Does moving Fortnite to an SSD improve performance? Yes, installing Fortnite on an SSD will significantly improve loading times, reduce stuttering, and provide a smoother overall gaming experience.
What is the default installation location for Epic Games games? The default installation location is C:Program FilesEpic Games.
How do I enable Cloud Saves in the Epic Games Launcher? Open the Epic Games Launcher, click on your profile icon in the top-right corner, select “Settings,” and check the box labeled “Enable Cloud Saves.”
What if the Epic Games Launcher doesn’t recognize the game after moving it? Try verifying the game files through the launcher’s options menu. If that doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall the game, ensuring you select the correct installation location.
Can I move the Epic Games Launcher itself to another drive? Yes, but you’ll need to uninstall and reinstall the launcher to do so. Note that uninstalling the launcher does not remove your installed games, but you will need to relocate them after the reinstallation.
Why is Fortnite taking up so much space? Fortnite’s file size increases with each update, adding new content, features, and bug fixes. Regularly clearing your cache and uninstalling unused features can help reduce its size.
Is it better to have Fortnite on the same drive as my operating system? It’s generally recommended to install Fortnite (and other games) on an SSD, even if it’s not the same drive as your operating system, for faster loading times.
What are manifest files and why are they important? Manifest files contain information about installed games, including their installation location, version, and other metadata. The Epic Games Launcher uses these files to manage and launch your games.
How do I free up storage space on my computer? Uninstall unnecessary programs, delete temporary files, empty your recycle bin, and use disk cleanup tools to free up storage space.
What if I encounter an error during the installation process? Check the error message for clues. Common issues include insufficient disk space, permission problems, or corrupted files. Try restarting your computer or running the Epic Games Launcher as an administrator.
Will moving Fortnite affect my ping? No, moving Fortnite to another drive will not directly affect your ping. Ping is determined by your internet connection and the distance to the game server.
Where can I learn more about game development and the impact of games on learning? You can explore resources and research from organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org, which focuses on the intersection of games and education.

How do I move Fortnite to another file?