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How do I use the Steam backup feature to save copies of my game files and restore my game files from backup copies?
Many games that use third party installers or downloaders will not work with Steam's backup feature. This includes many MMO style or third party free to play titles. Only games that completely download, install, and patch through Steam are compatible with this tool.
Backups for Valve games created with this feature will not include saved games, custom multiplayer maps or configuration files. To backup your entire installation (including custom content), ensure that copies of all custom files are in the following folders in the path: C:\Program Files\Steam\SteamApps\common\<game name>\ :
To locate your saves for third party games, please see this forum post:
The files will need to be copied to the corresponding folders after restoring with the Steam backup feature.
It is recommended that you use the method outlined in Moving a Steam Installation as this will save time and simplify the backup and restore process.
We recommend testing the backup discs after their creation to ensure the integrity of the files for future reinstallation.
If the path to your Steam installation contains special characters, such as C:\Instalação\Steam, the restore process may not complete successfully. If this issue occurs, you may need to re-install Steam to a location without special characters, such as C:\Steam.
To avoid problems in the future, make sure to test any backups that you create. If other applications interfere with the backup process or the backup process is interrupted, the backup may not be created successfully. Testing your backup will ensure that will not need to re-download the game at a later time.