how to save borderlands

2 min read 16-01-2025

Borderlands, with its expansive world, loot-filled adventures, and memorable characters, offers hours of gameplay. Losing your progress can be devastating. This guide covers various methods to ensure your Borderlands save data is safe and secure, no matter which platform you play on.

Backing Up Your Borderlands Saves: A Platform-Specific Guide

The methods for saving your Borderlands progress vary slightly depending on which platform you're playing on. Let's break it down:

Saving on PC

Steam Cloud Saves: If you purchased Borderlands through Steam, Steam Cloud saves should automatically back up your progress. Verify this is enabled in your Steam settings. Even with cloud saves, it's wise to make local backups.
Manual Backups: Locate your Borderlands save files. The exact location depends on the specific Borderlands game and version. A quick online search using "[Borderlands game name] save file location" will usually reveal the correct path. Once found, copy the save files to a separate folder on your hard drive, an external drive, or cloud storage service (like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive).
Third-Party Backup Software: Consider using backup software like Acronis True Image or Macrium Reflect to create regular backups of your entire computer's data, including your game saves. This protects against hard drive failure.

Saving on PlayStation (PS3, PS4, PS5)

PlayStation Plus Cloud Saves (PS Plus): If you're a PlayStation Plus subscriber, your save data is automatically backed up to the cloud. Check your PS Plus settings to confirm this is active.
Manual Backups (USB Drive): You can manually copy save data to a USB drive. Instructions vary by PlayStation console generation, so consult the official PlayStation support website for your specific model.

Saving on Xbox (Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S)

Xbox Cloud Saves (Xbox Live Gold): Similar to PlayStation, Xbox Live Gold subscribers benefit from automatic cloud saves. Ensure this is enabled in your Xbox settings.
Manual Backups (USB Drive): Manual backups to a USB drive are also possible. Again, consult Microsoft's support documentation for the exact procedure based on your Xbox console.

Saving on Switch

Nintendo Switch Online Cloud Saves: Nintendo Switch Online subscribers receive cloud save functionality for compatible games. Make sure you're subscribed and that cloud saves are turned on within your Switch system settings.

Preventing Data Loss: Best Practices

Beyond backing up your saves, these practices can minimize the risk of losing your progress:

Regularly Save Your Game: Get into the habit of saving your progress frequently, especially after completing significant missions or finding valuable loot.
Update Your Game: Keep your Borderlands game updated to the latest version. Patches often include bug fixes that prevent save corruption.
Avoid Modifying Save Files: Don't try to manually edit your save files unless you're experienced and understand the potential risks. This can corrupt your data.
Keep Your Console Updated: Ensure your console's operating system is up-to-date. System updates often include improvements that enhance game stability and save functionality.

Troubleshooting Save Issues

If you encounter problems with your saves, try these troubleshooting steps:

Verify Save Data Integrity: Some games allow you to verify the integrity of your save files. Check your game's settings or consult online resources for your specific Borderlands version.
Reinstall the Game: As a last resort, reinstalling the game might solve save-related issues, although this is time-consuming.
Contact Support: If you've exhausted other options, contact the game developer (Gearbox Software) or your console manufacturer's support team.

By following these steps and best practices, you can significantly reduce the chances of losing your hard-earned Borderlands progress and keep on shooting, looting, and exploring Pandora!