Where Are Below Zero Save Files Located?
Where Below Zero keeps slot saves inside its install folder, and why Steam Cloud history makes backups mandatory.
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Below Zero keeps saves in SNAppData\SavedGames inside its own install folder, one slotN folder per playthrough. Like the first Subnautica, progress sits in the program tree rather than AppData, exposed to uninstalls and file verification.
Steam Cloud support for Below Zero was disabled and reworked after saves disappeared in early access, which is why veterans trust only manual copies. The slot folders are self contained: moving one folder moves that entire run, PDA state and all.
Where Subnautica: Below Zero stores this, by platform
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\SubnauticaZero\SNAppData\SavedGames
Reach it via Steam > Manage > Browse local files, then open SubnauticaZero\SNAppData\SavedGames. Copy whole slot folders with the game closed. Do not store backups inside the Steam tree.
Frequently asked questions
How do I back up a Below Zero hardcore run?
Copy the slot folder out of SavedGames with the game closed. To restore, put it back and launch; the game lists whatever slots sit in the folder. Keep dated copies outside the Steam library where uninstalls and integrity checks cannot reach.
Can I import a Subnautica 1 save into Below Zero?
No. Below Zero slots are numbered folders both games would collide over, and the engines differ enough to corrupt on load. Treat them as separate games entirely: the shared name is branding, not compatibility.
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