Managing your game library efficiently often involves switching games between different storage locations. If you’ve installed a game on one drive but need to relocate it to another Steam library folder, there are several methods to do so without redownloading the entire game. This guide explores the official and community-supported approaches, ensuring your game data remains intact and accessible.
Many users store their personal data and game files on larger drives like D:, while keeping the Steam client itself on the default C: drive. When installing new titles, Steam allows selecting different library folders, but sometimes, despite choosing a specific location, games appear in unexpected places. This can happen due to symbolic links, manual moves, or Steam’s internal management.
Fortunately, Steam’s built-in features and community solutions enable easy transfer of installed titles. Whether you prefer using Steam’s “Move Install Folder” option or manually relocating files, understanding the correct procedure ensures minimal hassle and preserves your game progress.
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Using Steam’s Built-in “Move Install Folder” Feature
Since January 2017, Steam introduced a straightforward way to transfer games between library folders directly within the client, eliminating the need for manual file manipulation. To utilize this method:
- Open Steam and navigate to the game you wish to move.
- Right-click the game in your library and select Properties.
- Under the Local Files tab, click on Move Install Folder….
- Choose the target library folder from the list or browse to your desired location.
- Confirm the move, and Steam will handle the rest, seamlessly transferring the game files without re-downloading.
This feature simplifies managing multiple library locations, especially when you have limited space on your primary drive or want to organize your library better.
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Manual Transfer Using File Copy and Reconfiguration
For games that do not support the built-in move option or when dealing with legacy installations, manual copying is a reliable alternative. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Locate the Current Game Files:
Navigate to your existing game folder within the `steamappscommon` directory of your current library.
2. Copy the Game Folder:
Make a complete copy of the game’s folder to the desired library location, typically within a new `steamappscommon` directory.
3. Remove the Game from Steam:
In Steam, right-click the game and select Delete Local Content to unregister it temporarily.
4. Add the Game to Steam’s Library:
Reinstall the game, pointing Steam to the new library folder. When prompted for the install location, select the folder where you copied the files. Steam will recognize existing files and verify them, avoiding redownloads.
Alternatively, some advanced users prefer editing the game’s `appmanifest_*.acf` files directly to change the installation paths. This method requires caution and a good understanding of Steam’s file structure.
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Moving Games via Manual File and Manifest Management
For those comfortable with more technical procedures, editing the manifest files allows precise relocation:
- Find the game’s `appmanifest_.acf` in the `steamapps` directory.
- Open the `.acf` file with a text editor and locate the `”installdir”` line.
- Change the directory name to match the new location.
- Move the associated game folder from the old to the new `common` directory.
- Launch Steam; the game should appear in your library without needing to re-download.
This approach involves backing up the game and manifest files beforehand. Be aware that improper editing can cause Steam to lose track of game files, so proceed with caution.
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Complete Library Transfer for Multiple Titles
If you want to relocate your entire Steam library:
- Exit Steam completely.
- Copy the entire `SteamApps` folder, including all `appmanifest_*.acf` files, from the old library to the new location.
- Make sure the `common` subfolder is also transferred.
- Restart Steam; it will recognize the moved files and update its library accordingly.
This method is effective for consolidating storage or switching to a different drive. Always back up your data before performing bulk moves to prevent data loss.
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Final Recommendations and Tips
- Always back up your game data and manifest files before attempting manual moves.
- Use Steam’s native “Move Install Folder” feature whenever possible for simplicity and safety.
- When manually moving files, ensure Steam is completely closed to prevent conflicts.
- Verify the integrity of your game files after moving, by right-clicking the game, selecting Properties, and clicking Verify Integrity of Game Files.
- For further details, consult the official Steam Support page.
By following these methods, you can efficiently manage your Steam game library, saving bandwidth and storage space while maintaining your game progress.