Can you transfer Skyrim saves to Special Edition?
The release of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition has brought a wave of excitement among fans of the original game. One of the most frequently asked questions by players is whether they can transfer their saves from the original Skyrim to the Special Edition. In this article, we will explore this topic and provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth transition.
Understanding Skyrim Saves
Before diving into the transfer process, it’s important to understand what a save file is. In Skyrim, save files are stored in a specific format that allows the game to remember your progress, including your character’s level, inventory, and the world state. These files are typically stored in a folder called “Skyrim” within your game installation directory.
Transferring Saves to Special Edition
Yes, you can transfer your Skyrim saves to the Special Edition. However, there are a few steps you need to follow to ensure a successful transfer:
1.
Locate Your Skyrim Saves
First, locate the “Skyrim” folder within your game installation directory. This is usually found in the following location:
– Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Skyrim
– macOS: /Applications/Steam/Steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim
– Linux: /home/username/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Skyrim
2.
Copy the Saves
Inside the “Skyrim” folder, you will find a subfolder called “Saves.” Copy this entire folder to a new location on your computer, such as your desktop or a separate folder.
3.
Install Skyrim Special Edition
If you haven’t already, install The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition on your computer. Make sure to create a new save file within the Special Edition to ensure that your original save is not overwritten.
4.
Copy the Saves to Special Edition
Navigate to the “Saves” folder within the Skyrim Special Edition installation directory. Replace the existing “Saves” folder with the one you copied earlier. This will transfer your original Skyrim saves to the Special Edition.
5.
Play the Game
Launch The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition and load your transferred save file. You should now be able to continue your adventure with all your progress intact.
Keep in Mind
While transferring your saves to the Special Edition is generally a straightforward process, there are a few things to keep in mind:
–
Compatibility
Ensure that your original Skyrim saves are compatible with the Special Edition. In some cases, certain mods or customizations may not work as expected in the Special Edition.
–
Save File Size
The Special Edition may have a different save file size compared to the original game. This is due to the enhanced graphics and improved performance. If you encounter any issues, try compressing your save file to reduce its size.
–
Mod Support
The Special Edition includes a variety of new features and enhancements, including mod support. If you have any mods installed, make sure they are compatible with the Special Edition before transferring your saves.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully transfer your Skyrim saves to the Special Edition and continue your journey with all your progress intact. Happy adventuring!
