Restoring Windows--what should I do for HL2

[SirGrotius]

I'm going to do a clean install of my Windows XP, and am wondering how I should re-install HL2.

My concerns are:

a) Will I be prevented from re-installing it due to Steam, i.e. security measures?

b) Is there a way to keep my saved games?

Thanks

 

[SgtSpamBoy]

I recently reinstalled everything - Steam makes it pretty easy. You can keep your saved games and everything should be fine with Steam as long as you know your Steam ID and password.


1) Copy your saved games folder to another HD or burn them to CD - located here: ...C:\Program Files\Valve\SteamApps\<your name>\half-life 2\hl2\SAVE

Also, if you play HL2DM or Counterstrike, you should back up your custom map files so you won't have to download them again. If you want to back up your in-game settings, grab the config.cfg file as well - C:\Program Files\Valve\SteamApps\<your name>\half-life 2\hl2\cfg\

Important - you must remember your Steam ID and password.


2) Reinstall Windows and such... After everything's up and running, download Steam from Valve's site. Install it and type in your Steam ID and password - it will then know what Half-Life package you bought and allow you to download everything that you should. Then just let it download - it will download gigabytes of data, so hopefully you have a good internet connection. If not, then just use the CDs or DVDs you purchased to install everything that you can.

Hope this helps!

 

[SirGrotius]

Exactly what I was looking for--thanks. :cheers:

 

[Shasta]

You could just open steam and hit the "backup steam files" button. That does everything you wanted (savegames, maps, etc) plus it keeps all of your downloaded updates. I know because I have reformatted twice.

 

[SirGrotius]

Even better--I should note this utility on my "What is Steam for" thread.