Where Are Returnal Save Files Located?
Returnal's Steam SaveGames folder, the suspend cycle caveat, and Steam Deck note.
Last updated
Returnal on PC writes into a Returnal/Steam/Saved/SaveGames tree in local AppData. The suspend cycle feature pauses a run rather than banking a reloadable checkpoint, and the file deletes itself on resume.
There is no new game menu entry by design. Starting fresh means zipping the folder aside, clearing it with Cloud off, and restoring later if the clean run idea loses its charm.
Where Returnal stores this, by platform
%LOCALAPPDATA%\Returnal\Steam\Saved\SaveGames
Zip the whole folder before wiping for a fresh run. Disable Steam Cloud first or it re-downloads the old cycle immediately.
Frequently asked questions
How do I start a fresh Returnal run on PC?
Back up SaveGames elsewhere, empty the folder with Cloud disabled, and launch. To revert, close the game, restore the backup, then re-enable Cloud.
Does suspend cycle work as a real save?
No. It pauses one run across sessions and erases on resume. Treat SaveGames copies as your only true snapshots.
Notice an outdated path? Let us know.