October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
VGSources
cross-progression

How to Back Up and Restore Witcher 3 Saves Before Updating or Modding

Copy the Windows gamesaves folder to a separate device before updates or mods. For a clean install, disable Cloud Saves first, then restore and verify your files.

By VGSources Team 3 min read
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

On Windows, back up the entire %userprofile%DocumentsThe Witcher 3gamesaves folder to a separate drive or external device before updating, installing mods, or troubleshooting. For CD PROJEKT RED’s clean-install procedure, turn off the game’s Cloud Saves feature before uninstalling and deleting its Documents folder. After reinstalling, copy your files into the recreated gamesaves folder and verify the save in-game before relying on it.

Back up your saves before making changes

  1. Exit the game. This avoids copying files while the game may be writing a save.
  2. Open the save folder. In File Explorer, enter %userprofile%DocumentsThe Witcher 3gamesaves in the address bar. This is the Windows PC save location documented by CD PROJEKT RED.
  3. Copy the entire gamesaves folder to a different hard drive or external device. CD PROJEKT RED recommends a separate drive or external device where possible. Keep the copy independent of the game installation and original Documents folder.
  4. Preserve each save’s two files. A save consists of a .sav file and a .png file with the same name. Copy both; the PNG is part of the save set, not a substitute for the SAV file. See the official support form.

Keeping an additional dated copy is a sensible precaution if you have room, especially before a major mod or update change. It is an extra safeguard, not a requirement stated by CD PROJEKT RED.

For a clean install, handle Cloud Saves before deleting files

If you are following CD PROJEKT RED’s Windows clean-install procedure, disable The Witcher 3 Cloud Saves feature if it is enabled before uninstalling the game and deleting the Documents folder. The official instructions say the feature can be enabled again afterward if you want to use it.

Do not assume every storefront presents cloud-save conflicts or choices in the same way. The support instructions do not document each client’s conflict prompt. Keeping your separate local backup until you have verified the restored save gives you a recovery copy while you check the result.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Restore a local backup after reinstalling

  1. Reinstall the game without mods if you are using the clean-install procedure; this is the sequence CD PROJEKT RED specifies for that troubleshooting route.
  2. Copy the backed-up save files into the recreated %userprofile%DocumentsThe Witcher 3gamesaves folder. Preserve each matching .sav and .png pair.
  3. Launch the game and check the intended save. The support article gives different copy-and-launch ordering depending on whether the original issue was technical or gameplay-related, so follow the branch that matches your problem rather than treating one sequence as universal troubleshooting advice.
  4. Re-enable Cloud Saves if desired after the local files are back, as the official clean-install instructions allow. Keep the independent copy until you have confirmed the save loads as expected.

Manual backup and cross progression serve different purposes

Method Best for Where the copy is kept Compatibility considerations
Manual local backup An independent recovery copy before updates, mod changes, or a clean install. A separate drive or external device that you choose. Preserves your files but does not make a modded save compatible with another platform or game setup.
CD PROJEKT RED cross progression Transferring a supported save between platforms. Account-linked cloud storage associated with your CD PROJEKT RED account. For cross-progression compatibility, the same set of mods must be enabled on both platforms; the destination also needs to support the save and mods.

For cross progression, CD PROJEKT RED’s instructions say to update to the latest patch, connect the game to your CD PROJEKT RED account, create a new save, and check for the cloud icon. On the destination platform, connect the same account and load the uploaded save. This is a platform-transfer route, not a replacement for storing a separate offline backup.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Mod and version compatibility can affect a transferred save

CD PROJEKT RED’s Cross-Platform Mod Support guidance says that the same mod set must be enabled on both platforms to maintain cross-progression compatibility. If a mod is missing or incompatible on the destination, the save may not load correctly.

Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

The current notice also says that XML, script, or w3strings mods will not work upon the release of the update covered by that notice, and directs creators to REDkit to update such mods. Treat that warning as tied to the update described on the official page, not as a blanket statement about every version.

A separate official Switch announcement from 2020 warned that mod-related bugs or blockers could travel with a modded PC save and that renaming a save on PC could prevent Switch Cloud Save from recognizing it. That is historical Switch-transfer guidance; it does not establish how every current platform handles modded saves.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display
  • 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.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from Patch Notes

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.