Quick answer
For Steam on Windows, current public save-location notes point to `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Subnautica2\Saved\SaveGames`, with save folders containing `.sav` and `.bak` files. SteamDB also lists Subnautica 2 cloud-save data under the same LocalAppData path. Copy the whole save folder, not just one file. For Xbox app or PC Game Pass installs, be more careful: Microsoft Store saves can sit inside protected package storage and sync through the Xbox account, so use in-game saves and cloud sync first instead of forcing manual edits.
What to know before opening the folder
Back up the whole slot
A save slot can have more than one useful file. Copy the full folder so the game keeps the pieces together.
Cloud sync is not a replacement for a local backup
Cloud saves are helpful until the wrong state syncs everywhere. Make a local copy before testing risky fixes, mods, or file edits.
Game Pass is a different case
Do not assume the Steam folder applies to the Xbox app. Package folders can be locked down, renamed, or synced differently.
Visual notes and source media
Original route art
Abyss Guides uses original chibi deep-sea art for page visuals instead of copying wiki screenshots or fan uploads.
Source: Abyss Guides original artwork
Official Subnautica 2 gameplay trailer
Use the trailer for mood, vehicles, and biome context. Do not treat trailer scenes as exact farming coordinates.
Source: Official Subnautica YouTube embedHow to back up Subnautica 2 saves
Close the game first
A save copy made while the game is still writing can be useless. Close the game, wait a moment, and only then open the save folder.
Use the LocalAppData shortcut
Press Windows + R, paste `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Subnautica2\Saved\SaveGames`, and open it. If the folder is missing, launch the game once and create a save first.
Copy the folder, not a random file
Keep `.sav` and `.bak` files together. Put the copy somewhere obvious, like a desktop folder named with the date and the patch you were testing.
Respect cloud sync timing
If Steam Cloud or another sync system is active, give it time to finish before and after the backup. Do not replace files while the client is syncing.
Treat Xbox and Game Pass saves gently
For Xbox app installs, manual paths are less friendly. Use normal save slots and account cloud sync first, and avoid editing protected package folders unless you already know what you are doing.
Backup notes card
Steam path
LocalAppData
Current public notes point to the Subnautica2 Saved folder.
Copy
Folder
Do not split the save slot into loose files.
Cloud
Wait
Let sync finish before replacing or restoring files.
Save and backup table
| Case | What to do |
|---|---|
| Steam on Windows | Check `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Subnautica2\Saved\SaveGames` and copy the whole save folder. |
| Before a hotfix test | Make a dated folder outside the game directory so you know which build it came from. |
| .sav and .bak files | Keep them together. The backup file is not a reason to copy only one file. |
| Steam Cloud enabled | Let sync finish before replacing anything, and keep a local untouched copy. |
| Xbox app / Game Pass | Do not force the Steam path. Use platform saves and cloud sync unless you have a specific recovery reason. |
Do not turn backup advice into risky recovery advice
This page is for finding and backing up saves, not for promising save repair. If a file is already broken, copying it can preserve the problem. Keep one untouched backup before trying anything clever.
FAQ
Where are Subnautica 2 Steam saves on Windows?
Current public notes point to `%LOCALAPPDATA%\Subnautica2\Saved\SaveGames` for Steam Windows saves.
Should I copy the .sav file or the whole folder?
Copy the whole save folder. It is safer than guessing which single file matters.
Does Steam Cloud mean I do not need a backup?
No. Cloud sync helps with convenience, but a local dated backup is safer before hotfix testing or file changes.
Is the Game Pass save location the same as Steam?
Do not assume that. Xbox app and Microsoft Store saves can use protected package storage and cloud sync, so manual recovery needs more caution.