Where Does bsnes Store Saves and Save States?
bsnes saves cartridge RAM beside ROMs by default, with states, cheats, and config in its own folder.
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Modern bsnes writes .srm save RAM next to the ROM file unless you change paths. Save states, screenshots, and cheats go to folders you set in Settings, then Paths. That split keeps game folders tidy while states stay central.
Config follows the OS. Portable mode uses a file beside the executable. Standard mode uses AppData on Windows and ~/.config/bsnes on Linux and macOS. Copy both the .srm files and the state folder for a full backup.
Where bsnes stores this, by platform
Same folder as ROM (.srm saves)
Default for cartridge saves. States and screenshots follow Paths settings, often under Documents/bsnes. Check Settings Paths if files seem scattered.
Same folder as ROM (.srm saves)
Same default as Windows. Config in ~/Library/Application Support/bsnes or ~/.config/bsnes depending on build. States follow the custom paths table.
Same folder as ROM (.srm saves)
Config at ~/.config/bsnes. Nightly and package builds share that spot. Keep ROM folder writable or redirect saves to avoid permission errors.
Frequently asked questions
Why can I not find my bsnes save?
Look beside the ROM for the .srm file first, then check Settings Paths for redirected saves and states. Zip loading can hide saves in temp folders, so unpack treasured ROMs.
How do I back up bsnes fully?
Copy .srm files beside ROMs plus the states, cheats, and screenshots folders from Paths settings. Export the config if you tuned drivers or hotkeys.
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