How to Change Where Steam Installs Games?
Steam, the popular digital distribution platform for PC gamers, offers a range of features that make it a convenient and user-friendly place to buy and play games. One of these features is the ability to choose where games are installed, which can be especially useful for users with limited disk space or those who like to keep their games organized in specific folders.
In this article, we’ll show you how to change where Steam installs games on your computer.
Where Does Steam Install Games By Default?
Before we dive into the steps on how to change the default installation location, it’s worth noting that Steam usually installs games in the C:Program FilesSteamsteamappscommon directory by default. This directory is a designated folder for Steam to install games, and it’s usually where you’ll find all your installed games on your computer.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing the Default Installation Location
To change the default installation location for Steam games, follow these steps:
Step 1: Access the Steam Settings
Launch Steam on your computer and click on Settings from the main menu.
Step 2: Navigate to the Storage Tab
In the Settings window, click on the Downloads tab and then navigate to the Storage Manager section.
Step 3: Change the Default Installation Location
To change the default installation location, click on the Browse button next to Game Library Folders and select the new location you want to use.
You can choose any folder you like, but keep in mind that it’s always a good idea to have a separate folder for your Steam games to keep them organized and easy to find.
Step 4: Confirm the Changes
After selecting the new location, click OK to confirm the changes.
Now, when you download new games or install games purchased from the Steam store, they will be installed to the new location you selected.
Tips and Precautions
Before you start changing the default installation location, here are some tips and precautions to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have enough space on your chosen location. Steam games can be large, so you’ll need to have enough space on your hard drive or storage device.
- Avoid deleting or moving existing game files as this can cause problems with game functionality.
- Some games may have specific requirements for installation, so check the game’s installation folder for any specific instructions.
Additional Tips
If you’re looking for an alternative to the default Steam installation location, here are some additional tips:
- Use a separate storage device: If you’re running low on space on your main hard drive, consider using a separate storage device like an external hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD) to install your Steam games.
- Create a Steam Games folder: You can create a separate folder within the Steam directory specifically for storing your games. This way, you can keep your games organized and easily access them from the Steam launcher.
- Use steamcmd: Steamcmd is a command-line tool that allows you to manage and install Steam games. You can use steamcmd to install games to a custom location or to reinstall a game if it’s experiencing issues.
Conclusion
Changing the default installation location for Steam games is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps. By following these steps and tips, you can keep your games organized and easily access them from the Steam launcher. Happy gaming!