Recommended Free Tools
Start before the announced shutdown deadline. Make a final in-game save, wait for the platform’s synchronization confirmation, copy every local save folder to an external USB drive and a second location, and request any publisher data export while your account still works.
The crucial first step is identifying where each part of your progress lives. A local file may remain usable after a service closes, while a server-side character, inventory, currency, matchmaking record, or entitlement usually needs a publisher migration or export. No universal game-save conversion format exists.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
What you can realistically preserve
Online games commonly divide progress among several systems. Your computer or console may hold settings and local save files, a platform may synchronize selected files, and the publisher may keep the actual character, inventory, purchases, achievements, or unlocks on its servers. A single backup method rarely covers all three.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsLocal files
A local save is a file or folder the game reads from your device. Copying it can preserve a playable state if the game still launches and accepts that file without the retired online service. Local files may include campaign progress, configuration, screenshots, key bindings, or offline profiles. They do not automatically contain online currencies, account entitlements, cloud-only characters, or data held exclusively by the publisher.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Platform cloud files
Steam Cloud, Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud, and similar services synchronize only the files and games that support them. Developers decide which files are included, and a cloud icon or subscription does not prove that every part of your account is covered. Treat a cloud copy as one additional copy, not as your only archive.
Publisher-server data
Live-service characters, inventories, currencies, matchmaking statistics, season rewards, and purchase entitlements are normally tied to an account on the publisher’s servers. A USB copy cannot extract them. They survive only if the publisher offers a migration, an export that the replacement service can read, or continued access through an offline or successor client.
Evidence that is not a save
Screenshots, video, achievement pages, receipts, and inventory or character pages cannot usually restore a game, but they document what you earned and purchased. Capture them before the final login, especially when the online account will disappear.
Build a shutdown timeline
Use the publisher’s shutdown notice or game-specific FAQ as the controlling source. Record the exact closing date, time zone, and stated final login time; a date without a time zone is not enough for a last-minute backup.
- Find the official notice. Save a local copy of the announcement and note whether it distinguishes account closure, server shutdown, delisting, or an earlier end to purchases.
- List every progress component. Write down local saves, platform cloud files, server characters, inventories, currencies, purchases, achievements, screenshots, linked accounts, and any launcher or subscription needed to sign in.
- Perform one final in-game save. Reach a safe point, use the game’s Save command if it has one, return to the title screen, and exit normally. Do not force-quit while a save or synchronization indicator is active.
- Wait for synchronization. Confirm that the platform or launcher reports a completed upload. If it reports a conflict, stop and resolve which copy is newest before opening the game on another device.
- Copy local folders. Find the game’s documented save directory and copy the entire game-specific folder to an external USB drive. Do not move the original and do not place the only copy inside the game’s installation directory.
- Create a second independent copy. Put the dated archive on a separate computer or reputable cloud-storage account. Two copies on the same internal drive do not protect against drive failure.
- Download exposed cloud files. If the platform provides a file-download or browse function, save those files while authentication still works. A platform may not expose cloud data as ordinary files, so record what can and cannot be downloaded.
- Submit a publisher request. Use the game’s documented data-access, portability, or migration form before account services close. Ask specifically whether the response is a playable save export or only personal-account data.
- Capture irreplaceable evidence. Record character screens, inventories, unlocks, achievements, settings, guild or social pages, and purchase history in screenshots or video.
- Preserve the client lawfully. Keep the installer, offline-capable version, patches, receipts, license details, and linked-account credentials when the publisher permits continued use. Do not download or redistribute files that the license does not allow.
- Test a copy, not the original. Restore the archive into a separate folder, drive, or test machine if the game supports local loading. Keep the untouched original offline so an older cloud copy cannot overwrite it.
- Recheck the title-specific FAQ. Look for migration windows, offline-mode instructions, approved archival clients, or officially supported community servers. These options differ by game and cannot be inferred from the platform.
Determine where a PC game stores progress
Use the game’s own documentation first
Look for a Save, Storage, or Cloud section in the game’s support pages and launcher settings. The relevant folder may be under your user profile, a documents directory, the launcher’s data directory, or the installation tree. Copy the complete folder rather than selected files so that profiles, metadata, and version markers remain together.
Before copying, close the game and launcher after synchronization finishes. A file that is still being written can produce an incomplete archive. Keep the original folder unchanged and give the backup a date and device label, such as GameName_2026-10-19_PC1.
Rank #2
- 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.
Ubisoft Connect local-save procedure
Ubisoft’s documented method is to open the Ubisoft Connect installation folder, open savegames, select the folder for the game, and copy it somewhere outside the installation directory. Ubisoft lists cloud storage and an external storage drive as suitable destinations and says the copy can be restored later. This preserves only the local files that the game uses; it does not turn server-only progression into a standalone save.
Steam Cloud
Steam Support says Steam Cloud can contain settings, save games, profile statistics, and other user-specific data, but the developer chooses which files are integrated. Many games do not use Steam Cloud, and Steam warns that lost saves may not be recoverable. Check the game’s store-page Cloud indicator and the game’s documented save path before relying on it.
Steamworks documentation explains that configured files are uploaded to Steam servers after the game exits and downloaded before launch on another computer. Because the developer selects both the files and paths, this is synchronization of a defined set, not a universal export of account progress. A server-held character or inventory can remain inaccessible even when the cloud icon shows an up-to-date status.
Steam Backup
Steam’s Backup feature is narrower than a preservation archive. It works only for games that are fully downloaded, installed, and patched through Steam. Steam says many third-party installers and MMO-style or free-to-play titles are incompatible. For Valve games, the backup may omit saved games and custom content, so copy those folders separately. A successful installer backup therefore does not prove that your progress is included.
GOG GALAXY synchronization
GOG developer documentation says GOG GALAXY can synchronize a specified local save directory whenever the game launches or closes. Configure the exact directory documented for the title, then retain a manual copy as well. Synchronization remains a service feature; it does not create a universal migration format or guarantee that a game will run without its original online checks.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Console procedures
Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud
Nintendo says Save Data Cloud requires a Nintendo Switch Online membership and works only with compatible software. A compatible backup can be downloaded on another Switch 2 or Switch console where the game is playable. Check the game’s eShop or Nintendo Store listing and its Save Data Cloud menu before assuming support.
Rank #3
- 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.
Switch save data is stored in system memory and cannot be copied to a microSD card. Deleting or archiving the game software does not itself delete the save, but deleting the user account deletes the save data associated with that user. Keep the account intact while you are making transfers or cloud downloads.
Nearby Switch transfer
For a direct transfer between nearby consoles, Nintendo requires both consoles, an internet connection, and the same Nintendo Account linked to a user on each console. A Nintendo Switch Online membership is not required for that transfer. Follow the system’s data-transfer menu and verify the destination console before confirming, because a transfer can change where the usable save resides.
Mobile games and Google Play Games
Google says some games autosave when you are signed in to Google Play Games, but not all games automatically save. Google does not manage in-app data or game accounts. If restoration fails, contact the developer through the game’s store listing while the support channel and account are still active.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
A Google account backup is therefore not proof that a server-side character can be exported. Open the game’s account, cloud, and export settings, record the player ID and linked sign-in methods, and ask the developer whether progress can be migrated. Preserve screenshots of purchases and unlocks separately from any device backup.
Requesting publisher data and protecting the account
Data-access and portability requests
Some publishers offer an account-data access or portability request. Ubisoft’s privacy policy describes an “Access your data” request and says users may consult or transfer data to another service provider. That mechanism concerns personal data; it is not a promise of a playable save-file export. Ask the publisher to identify the format, included fields, retention period, and whether another game or client can import it.
Do not close the account first
Ubisoft’s account support page, updated 2 June 2026, states that permanently closing an account removes access to Ubisoft games, in-game progression, Ubisoft online services, and personal data. Do not close an account while trying to preserve data. Submit requests, download what is offered, copy local files, and capture evidence before initiating closure.
Rank #4
- 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
Preserve authentication details
Save the email address, username, player ID, linked console or platform accounts, recovery methods, subscription status, and purchase receipts in a secure offline record. Never put passwords in an unencrypted public archive. If a publisher offers a migration code or one-time transfer token, record its expiration date and follow the stated process before the shutdown.
What each method can and cannot preserve
| Method | Usually preserves | Will not automatically preserve | Important limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual local-folder copy | Files the game reads from your computer, such as offline saves and settings | Server-only characters, inventories, currencies, matchmaking records, and entitlements | Useful only if the game can load the files without the retired service |
| Steam Cloud | Developer-selected files, which may include saves, settings, or statistics | Files the developer did not configure and most account-server data | Many games do not use it; Steam cannot guarantee recovery of lost saves |
| Steam Backup | Supported, fully installed and patched Steam game content | Many third-party installers, MMO-style or free-to-play titles, and some saved games or custom content | Copy save folders separately |
| GOG GALAXY synchronization | The local directory configured for synchronization | Unconfigured folders and server-side account state | Keep a manual copy because synchronization depends on the service |
| Nintendo Switch Save Data Cloud | Save data for compatible software | Games without compatibility and publisher-server inventories or accounts | Requires Nintendo Switch Online membership |
| Nearby Switch transfer | Compatible save data between two consoles using the same Nintendo Account | Data that the game stores only on publisher servers | Requires both consoles and an internet connection; membership is not required |
| Google Play Games sign-in | Progress for games that implement its save features | Games that do not autosave and data managed by the developer | Google does not manage in-app data or game accounts |
| Publisher portability request | The personal data and fields the publisher chooses to provide | A playable save unless the publisher explicitly supplies one | Request and inspect the format before the account closes |
Choose storage for two independent copies
External USB drive or flash drive
An external USB drive is the most direct companion to a manual local-save copy. Create a dated folder, copy the complete save directory, safely eject the drive, and store it separately from the computer. It stores files that can be copied; it cannot export a character that exists only on a publisher’s server.
Cloud storage as the second location
A cloud-storage plan can provide the off-device copy needed if the computer and USB drive are lost together. Upload the dated archive after closing the game and verify that the upload completed. Do not confuse a general file-storage service with the game platform’s synchronization: the former stores your archive, while the latter may overwrite or filter files according to game configuration.
Backup software for many games
Dedicated PC save-backup software can automate folder discovery, schedules, and versioned copies when you manage many games. Treat it as a convenience layer after you understand the manual path. Verify current compatibility for each title, because an automated tool can miss unusual locations, encrypted saves, launcher profiles, or files that are created only on exit.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Test and restore without destroying the good copy
- Disconnect or rename the original save folder and work from a duplicate archive, never from the only untouched copy.
- Install the same game version or a legally retained offline-capable version when available.
- Place the duplicate in the documented save location, then disable automatic cloud synchronization temporarily if the launcher allows it.
- Launch the game offline only when the title supports offline play; otherwise note that the service requirement prevents a meaningful local test.
- Confirm that the expected profile, progress, settings, and timestamps appear. Do not save new progress over the archive during this check.
- Exit, restore the original folder, and re-enable synchronization only after deciding which copy is authoritative.
If the game reports corrupted or missing data, keep the archive unchanged. Test another dated copy, verify that the folder structure was preserved, and check whether the save is tied to a specific account, platform version, or encryption key.
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 →Common failure modes and fixes
The cloud icon says current, but the save is missing
The game may not support the platform cloud, or the developer may have excluded that save path. Check the store-page indicator and the game’s own save directory, then make a manual copy. Steam specifically notes that many games do not use Steam Cloud and that lost saves may not be recoverable.
Best Value
- 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.
A newer device downloads an older save
Stop launching the game on additional devices. Compare local timestamps and cloud-conflict choices, preserve both copies, and select the newest verified file only after making another archive. Opening the game repeatedly can cause an older synchronized file to replace the one you intended to keep.
The platform backup completes but progress is absent
Installer backups and save backups are different. Steam’s Backup feature can omit saved games and custom content, and it excludes many third-party or MMO-style titles. Copy the game’s save directory separately and document any custom-content folders.
The publisher sends a data file that will not load
Ask whether the response is a personal-data export rather than a playable save. Portability laws and privacy policies may provide account records without the proprietary format, keys, or server state required by the game. Keep the file as documentation, but do not assume another client can import it.
The game stops at an online-login screen
A local archive cannot bypass an authentication requirement. Check the shutdown FAQ for an announced offline patch, archival build, migration path, or approved replacement service. Do not modify or redistribute executable files in ways that violate the license.
The console save cannot be found on the microSD card
On Nintendo Switch, save data is in system memory and cannot be copied to microSD. Use compatible Save Data Cloud or the nearby-console transfer process instead, and keep the Nintendo Account attached to the user until the transfer is complete.
Mobile progress disappears after reinstalling
Not all games autosave through Google Play Games, and Google does not manage the game’s account or in-app data. Reinstall only after confirming the developer’s sign-in method and recording the player ID. Contact the developer through the store listing if restoration fails.
Can progress be moved into another game?
Usually not by copying files. Different games use different schemas, identifiers, encryption, and server rules. A transfer is possible only when the original publisher and the receiving game provide a documented migration, shared account system, or import tool. Check the individual shutdown FAQ for eligibility, deadlines, and which items transfer; do not infer compatibility from the fact that both games run on the same platform.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
When no migration exists, preserve the local files for any offline play they support and preserve server-held accomplishments as screenshots, video, receipts, and account records. These records can substantiate ownership or memories even though they cannot recreate a live character.
Quick Recap
Final shutdown-day checklist
- Confirm the deadline in the stated time zone and sign in before the final login window.
- Make and verify the final in-game save.
- Wait for platform synchronization to finish.
- Copy local save folders to an external USB drive and a separate off-device location.
- Download exposed cloud files and record the game version and platform.
- Submit any publisher access, portability, or migration request.
- Capture characters, inventories, achievements, purchases, settings, and linked-account pages.
- Retain the legal installer, patches, receipts, license details, and recovery information.
- Test a duplicate archive only when the game supports local loading, with automatic cloud overwrite disabled.
- Keep the account open until every request, transfer, and download is complete.
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.
