SaveState review
A flexible Windows and Linux save manager with compression, rotation, and broad sync support.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
SaveState is an open-source desktop application for backing up and restoring video-game save files on Windows and Linux. It suits players who want separate backup profiles for games managed through Steam, Epic Games, GOG Galaxy, Battle.net, Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Playnite, or Heroic Games Launcher, as well as emulator libraries. Game shortcuts and Steam installations can help detect save locations, while manual save-path entry covers games that need custom configuration.
Its strongest area is backup control. SaveState creates compressed ZIP archives, supports one-click backup and restore, and can rotate older backups according to configurable limits. It also supports emulator locations for RetroArch, Dolphin, ares, and xemu. Desktop shortcuts and silent backup commands make it suitable for scripted workflows, while scheduling can be handled through desktop shortcuts, command-line invocation, Task Scheduler, or scripts. The published functionality does not describe a native in-app scheduler, so users seeking a fully self-contained scheduling interface may prefer another tool.
Synchronization is broader than a basic local save copier. Optional connections include Google Drive, WebDAV, FTP/FTPS, SMB or NAS shares, and Git repositories, giving users several ways to store or version backup archives. Portable Windows and Linux AppImage distributions also support installation choices across its two desktop platforms. SaveState is a good fit for users who want configurable local profiles with multiple synchronization paths and emulator coverage. It is less suited to users who need automatic restore actions, a documented built-in scheduling system, or support beyond Windows and Linux.
SaveState pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Compressed ZIP backups with configurable rotation and restore support
- Steam, shortcut, manual-folder, and emulator save profiles
- Sync options include cloud, network shares, FTP/FTPS, and Git
- Where it doesn't
- Native in-app scheduling is not documented
- Restore actions are manual rather than automatic
- Supports Windows and Linux desktop environments only
SaveState fact sheet, pricing and score →
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