How to load or install a save file in The Sims 4

To load a save in The Sims 4, go to the main menu and choose Load Game, then pick the save you want. To use a downloaded save file on PC or Mac, put the .save file in Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > saves and it will appear in the Load Game list. The same folder is where you back up saves, restore an older version or move them to another computer.

Loading a save in the game

1. Start The Sims 4 and wait for the main menu.
2. Select Load Game (or Resume to continue your last save).
3. Choose a save from the list; the game shows its name and last date played.
4. To load from inside a game, open the menu (the three dots at the top right) and choose Load Game. Save your current game first if needed.

Installing a downloaded save file

1. Download the save only from a creator or site you trust, and unzip it if needed.
2. Close The Sims 4.
3. Copy the .save file (and any matching .ver files) into Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > saves. If a file with the same slot number already exists, rename the new one, for example to Slot_00000099.save, so you don't overwrite your own game.
4. Install any packs, custom content or mods the creator lists, then start the game and choose Load Game.

Restoring a backup

The saves folder contains .save files and backup copies ending in .ver0 to .ver4. If a save becomes corrupted:

1. Close the game and copy the whole saves folder somewhere safe.
2. Find the backup of the same slot, for example Slot_00000002.save.ver0.
3. Rename it to end in .save, removing the .ver part, then start the game and load it.

Moving a save to another computer

Copy the files for that slot from the saves folder to the same folder on the new computer. Install the same expansion and stuff packs, and copy custom content and mods too, or the save may load with missing items.

FAQ

Where are Sims 4 saves located?

In Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > saves on Windows and Mac.

Can I transfer a save between PC and console?

No. PC/Mac and console saves are separate.

Does The Sims 4 save automatically?

Don't rely on it. Save manually from the menu often, and use Save As to keep separate copies before big changes.

How do I get old Sims 4 saves back?

Check the saves folder for the slot and its .ver backups, or copy back a saves folder you backed up earlier. If a save doesn't appear in the list, it is usually in the wrong folder or damaged.

Should I back up my saves?

Yes. Copy the saves folder regularly, especially before installing updates or mods.