iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The safest way to reinstall digitally purchased PC games is to treat it as two separate jobs: preserve the game’s installation files, and preserve its save data and personal settings. A launcher backup may contain only files needed to install the game again; saves, configuration files, mods, screenshots, and custom multiplayer content may be elsewhere. Copy those folders separately to a tested external USB hard drive or SSD, keep your store-account credentials, and do not erase the old installation until a restored launch opens the expected save.
Steam and Epic Games Launcher handle migration differently. Steam has a Backup and Restore tool with strict compatibility limits. Epic can verify files that you seed into a new download, but it does not automatically discover old game files after Windows or the launcher is reinstalled. Cloud saves help, but they are synchronization services—not a complete archive.
What you need before deleting the old Windows installation
Start while the old system still boots and the games still launch. Make a written inventory of every store and game, then record whether each title uses cloud saves, an external account, a third-party installer, mods, or a separate launcher. A game can appear in a launcher library while storing its saves and settings in a completely different folder.
Recommended Free Tools
- The store account: Confirm the email address, password, two-factor authentication method, and any recovery codes for each launcher. A local copy does not prove ownership after reinstalling Windows; you still need to sign in to the account that purchased or redeemed the game.
- Available storage: Check the installed size of each game and the free space on the destination drive. Leave additional room for updates, temporary extraction files, and duplicate copies while you test.
- A separate physical destination: Use an external USB hard drive or SSD for the launcher backup, manually copied save folders, configuration files, and any offline installers. Do not keep the only copy on the drive you are about to erase.
- A list of exceptions: Mark games that use third-party installers or downloaders, games with mods, and games that have custom maps or nonstandard launchers. These are the titles most likely to need a manual backup or a fresh download.
Do not start with the Windows reset. First make the copies, open them on the external drive, and complete a restore test for at least one important game.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Installation files and save files are different backups
A launcher backup generally aims to preserve downloadable game data. It does not necessarily include your progress, graphics settings, key bindings, mods, screenshots, or custom multiplayer content. Cloud synchronization can cover some user data, but only when the game supports it and the files have successfully synchronized.
| Item | Why it matters | How to preserve it |
|---|---|---|
| Game installation | Prevents a full redownload when the launcher can restore or verify the files. | Use the store’s backup function where supported, or copy the installed game directory to external storage. |
| Save games | Contains campaign progress, profiles, and local checkpoints that may not be in an installation archive. | Locate each game’s save folder and copy it separately. Keep the original folder structure and note the game version. |
| Configuration | May contain settings, controls, resolutions, and local profiles. | Copy the game’s configuration and user-data folders in addition to saves. |
| Mods and custom content | Mods, custom maps, add-ons, and manually installed files can be outside the launcher’s managed files. | Copy mod managers’ profiles and the folders where you installed custom content. Keep a list of load order and prerequisites. |
| Cloud data | Can synchronize supported saves and settings, but conflicts or missing uploads can occur. | Leave cloud synchronization enabled consistently, and retain a local copy instead of relying on cloud data alone. |
Find and copy saves before reinstalling Windows
There is no universal save location. The location can vary by game, edition, launcher, Windows user account, and whether the title uses a separate publisher account. Find the location for each game rather than assuming that a launcher backup contains it.
- Check the game’s own documentation. Look in its support page, readme, or in-game help for save and configuration locations. Record the full folder path in your inventory.
- Inspect the launcher’s cloud status. Make sure the game has finished syncing before you close the launcher. A pending upload is not a completed backup.
- Search the old computer. Use Windows search for the game title, the publisher name, and recently modified files. Also inspect the user folders commonly used for saved games, documents, and application data, including hidden folders that Windows Explorer may not show by default.
- Copy the complete folder. Preserve all files, subfolders, and timestamps where possible. Copying only a file with an obvious name can omit profiles, slot metadata, or configuration files needed to load it.
- Make the copy independently readable. Open the external drive and confirm that the folders contain files, not shortcuts to the old disk. For important games, make a second copy or archive the folder.
If a game uses a separate launcher or account, repeat the process there. A store client can reinstall the main executable while a publisher client controls the saves, updates, or account profile.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Back up Steam games with Steam’s official tool
Steam’s Backup and Restore tool is useful for games that download, install, and patch completely through Steam. Valve states that “Only games that completely download, install, and patch through Steam are compatible with this tool.” Valve also warns: “Many games that use third party installers or downloaders will not work with Steam’s backup feature.”
Create the backup
- Open Steam and sign in to the account that owns the games.
- Open the Steam menu and choose Backup and Restore Games.
- Select Backup currently installed programs, then choose the games to include.
- Choose a destination on the external USB hard drive or SSD. If Steam offers archive-size options, select a split size that fits the destination media.
- Start the backup and wait for Steam to report completion. Do not disconnect the drive while files are being written.
- Open the destination afterward and check that the backup files are present. Valve recommends testing created backups; a corrupt archive discovered after the old drive is erased can force a complete redownload.
This process is not a universal disk image. A title that installs a separate launcher, uses an external downloader, or receives content outside Steam may be only partly represented or may not be compatible at all.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Copy Steam saves and custom files separately
Valve says backups for Valve-created games do not include saved games, custom multiplayer maps, or configuration files unless those custom folders are copied separately. Apply the same caution to other Steam titles: inspect each game’s save, profile, settings, screenshot, and mod folders and place those copies beside the Steam backup on the external drive.
Use Steam Cloud as synchronization, not your only archive
Valve describes Steam Cloud as storage hosted by Steam that lets games and the platform use cloud data. Depending on the game, that data can include settings, saves, profile statistics, and other user information. Support varies by title, and a cloud copy can be incomplete or conflicted.
Before wiping the old system, launch the game, let Steam finish synchronization, and exit normally. Avoid changing the same save on two computers during migration. If Steam presents a conflict after reinstalling, read the timestamps and file locations before choosing a version; selecting the wrong side can replace the newer local or cloud data. Valve warns that cloud conflicts can occur and that lost data may not be recoverable, so retain the manual save copy until the restored game has loaded correctly.
Restore Steam games after reinstalling Windows
- Install Windows updates and the current Steam client, then sign in to the original account.
- Connect the external backup drive and open Steam’s Backup and Restore Games menu.
- Choose Restore a previous backup and point Steam to the backup location.
- Select the games to restore and choose the destination library. Allow Steam to complete the process before starting another restore.
- For games whose files were copied manually, add or select the library location in Steam and begin installation to that location. If Steam recognizes the existing files, let it verify them; if it does not, the title may require a redownload or a different folder layout.
- Copy the saved-game and configuration folders back to the paths recorded before the reinstall. Restore mods only after the unmodified game launches successfully.
- Launch the game, confirm the expected profile and save load, check settings, and test online or third-party components.
Keep the old drive and the external copy untouched until this launch test succeeds for every game you cannot easily replace.
Prepare Epic Games Launcher games
Epic Games Launcher handles migration differently from Steam. Epic says that if a game was previously installed and the Epic Games Launcher was removed or Windows was reinstalled, the launcher has no feature that automatically detects the existing game files.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Keep Epic Cloud Saves consistent
- Open Epic Games Launcher and go to Settings.
- Enable Cloud Saves if the game supports them, and leave the setting in the same state during the move.
- Before shutting down the old installation, allow the game and launcher to finish synchronizing. Record any conflict instead of dismissing it without checking which copy is newer.
Epic warns that disabling and enabling Cloud Saves can result in conflicts. Cloud data should therefore supplement, not replace, a copied save folder.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Seed a new Epic installation with existing files
- After reinstalling Windows, install Epic Games Launcher and sign in to the same account.
- Start installing the game and choose the directory where you want the restored files to live. Let the launcher create the initial folder structure, then pause the download.
- Close the launcher completely. Copy the backed-up game files into that new directory, preserving the folder structure. Do not copy a shortcut or a parent folder that adds an extra level of nesting.
- Reopen Epic Games Launcher and resume the installation. The launcher should verify files that match its expected layout and download anything missing or changed.
- Wait for verification and patching to finish, then launch the game once before restoring mods or changing advanced settings.
- Copy the separately saved user-data and configuration folders back to their recorded locations, and confirm that the expected save appears.
If Epic ignores the copied files and begins downloading the full game, stop the download and recheck the selected directory and folder nesting. The launcher must be pointed at the directory used by the new installation attempt; it will not search every disk for an old copy.
Other digital stores: evaluate the migration features
For another store, do not assume that Steam’s or Epic’s process applies. Before deleting the old system, answer these questions for every launcher:
- Does it provide an official backup or export function, and what kinds of games are compatible?
- Can cloud saves be enabled per game, and where does the client show synchronization status or conflicts?
- Does the store provide offline installers that can be copied and run without a full client download?
- Can the launcher verify files already present in a selected installation directory?
- Where are saves, settings, profiles, screenshots, and mods stored?
- Can you launch the restored copy and load a known save before erasing the original?
Offline installers can be useful when a store supplies them, but they still do not guarantee that saves or settings are included. Keep the installer files, save folders, and configuration data as separate items in your backup plan.
How to organize a backup that you can actually restore
Use a folder for the migration date and one subfolder per store, then one folder per game. Include a short text note with the account, installed version, original library path, save path, mod status, and restore steps. This avoids guessing which copy belongs to which installation months later.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
For example, a game folder can contain an installation backup, a saves folder copied from the user profile, a settings folder, a mods folder, and a note describing the load order. Keep the launcher’s backup archive intact rather than extracting and rearranging its internal files.
After copying, compare the source and destination folder sizes and open several files from the external drive. A copy operation that ended with an error, ran out of space, or produced shortcuts is not a usable backup. For irreplaceable saves, keep a second copy on another physical device or in an independent backup service; launcher synchronization alone is not designed to be a complete historical archive.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Test the restore before you erase anything
The decisive check is not whether a backup folder exists. It is whether a clean launcher installation can use it and load the right save.
- On the newly installed system, sign in to the same store account.
- Install or restore the launcher and point it to the backed-up or seeded game files.
- Wait for file verification, patching, and cloud synchronization to finish.
- Start the game without mods first. Confirm the correct profile, campaign slot, settings, and playtime-related data.
- Exit normally, reopen the game, and verify that the save remains available after the second launch.
- Restore mods and custom content one group at a time, launching between changes so a broken modification can be identified.
- Only after the checks pass should you erase or reformat the old drive.
Troubleshooting common migration failures
The launcher says the backup is incompatible
This is expected for some Steam games that use third-party installers or downloaders, and for any title whose files are managed outside the launcher’s supported workflow. Keep the manual save and configuration copies, then allow the launcher to download a clean installation. Reapply custom content only after the base game works.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe game starts but the progress is missing
Check that you restored the correct user account’s save folder, including hidden application-data folders, and that the folder is in the path used by the new installation. Confirm that cloud synchronization completed and that you did not choose an older side of a conflict. Do not overwrite the original save copy while experimenting; make a working duplicate first.
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Steam shows a cloud conflict
Stop and compare the local and cloud timestamps or file details. Choose the copy you know contains the latest progress, then launch and verify the result. Keep the other copy on the external drive until the game has been opened and closed successfully.
Epic downloads the whole game again
Epic does not automatically discover old files. Start a new installation in the intended directory, pause it, close the launcher, copy the backup into that exact directory, and resume so the client can verify the files. Incorrect nesting—such as placing the backed-up game folder inside another folder with the same name—is a common cause of a full download.
Mods or settings disappeared
That usually means the launcher restored only managed installation files. Copy the separate configuration, profile, mod, and custom-content folders, then reinstall any mod manager or prerequisite in the order required by that game. Test the unmodified game first to distinguish a missing save from a broken mod.
The external backup cannot be read
Disconnect and reconnect the drive, try another USB port, and copy the readable files to a second device before doing anything destructive. If the archive itself fails its restore test, treat it as unusable and preserve the old installation while you create a fresh copy or redownload the affected game.
Quick Recap
A practical final checklist
- Every game is mapped to its store, account, installation path, save path, and cloud-save status.
- Steam Backup and Restore was used only for compatible Steam-managed titles.
- Steam saves, settings, custom maps, screenshots, and mods were copied separately where needed.
- Epic Cloud Saves remained consistently enabled or disabled during the move, and local saves were also copied.
- Epic games were seeded into a new installation directory so the launcher could verify them; no automatic file discovery was expected.
- The external USB hard drive or SSD contains readable files and, for critical data, a second copy exists.
- At least one clean launch, save load, exit, and second launch succeeded on the new system.
- The old drive has not been erased until every important game passes its restore test.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
