Itch.io is a popular platform that offers a wide variety of indie games, including browser-based and downloadable titles. While many gamers enjoy the flexibility of playing games directly in their browser or downloading them to their devices, one common question arises: Does itch.io save progress for browser or downloaded games?
The answer to this question depends on the type of game you’re playing and how it’s designed. Below, we’ll break down how save progress works for browser and downloaded games on itch.io and what factors influence this behavior.
Saving Progress for Browser Games
Browser games on itch.io typically run directly within your web browser, using technologies like HTML5, JavaScript, or WebGL. The way progress is saved in these games can vary, but generally, there are a few common methods:
- Local Storage: Many browser-based games save your progress using the browser’s local storage system. This means your progress is stored on your device, in the browser’s cache. If you return to the game later, it will load your saved progress as long as you use the same browser and device. However, clearing your browser’s cache or cookies, or switching browsers, can cause the loss of progress.
- Online Save Systems: Some games on itch.io include their own online save system, allowing you to store progress on external servers. These games may require you to sign in with a specific account, and as long as you log in again on the same game, your progress will be saved across devices. This feature is more common in multiplayer games or games with cloud integration, though it’s not universal.
- No Save System: Not all browser games on itch.io are designed with save features. Simple games, or games that are meant to be played in short sessions, may not offer a way to save your progress. These games typically restart from the beginning when you return to play.
Pros of Browser Game Saves:
- Instant play without needing to download anything.
- Progress saved locally or via cloud, depending on the game.
Cons of Browser Game Saves:
- Local saves can be lost if you clear your cache or change browsers.
- Cloud saves are not as common and may require specific accounts or logins.
Saving Progress for Downloaded Games
Downloaded games on itch.io are typically standalone applications that you install on your device. Since these games are not running within the browser, saving progress works differently compared to browser-based games. In most cases, downloaded games can save progress in the following ways:
- Local Save Files: Downloaded games usually store your save data on your computer or device, either in the game’s directory or in a designated folder (such as
DocumentsorAppDataon Windows). These files are persistent, meaning that your progress is saved even if you close the game or restart your computer. - Cloud Saves (If Supported): Some downloaded games offer cloud saving features, especially if the game has its own user account system or supports a platform like Steam or itch.io’s own service. When cloud saving is enabled, your progress can be synced across devices, so you can pick up where you left off on another computer. However, this feature is not as universally implemented on itch.io as it is on larger platforms like Steam.
- Manual Save Options: Many games allow you to save progress manually, often through in-game menus or checkpoints. This system is particularly common in more complex or narrative-driven games, where players can return to specific points in the game without having to restart completely.
Pros of Downloaded Game Saves:
- Saves are usually stable and persistent unless you manually delete them.
- No risk of losing progress due to browser issues or clearing cache.
Cons of Downloaded Game Saves:
- Requires storage space on your device.
- Transferring saves between devices may require manual effort if cloud saves aren’t available.
Key Considerations for Save Progress on itch.io
- Game Design Matters: The saving system depends heavily on how the game was designed. Some developers incorporate cloud saves, while others rely on local storage or even provide no save function at all. Always check the game’s description or FAQs on its itch.io page to understand how saves work.
- Device and Browser Issues: Progress for browser-based games can be affected by the device you’re using and the browser you’re playing in. Changing your browser or clearing cookies might cause you to lose your progress.
- No Universal Standard: Unlike larger platforms like Steam, itch.io doesn’t enforce a specific saving mechanism across all games. Therefore, save systems vary greatly, even within the same genre.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I save my progress in all browser games on itch.io?
Not all browser games on itch.io save your progress. It depends on how the game is designed. Some use local storage or cloud saving, while others may not have any saving functionality at all. Always check the game’s details for saving instructions.
2. How do I transfer saved progress from a downloaded game to another device?
If the game supports cloud saving, your progress may sync across devices automatically. However, if the game uses local save files, you may need to manually copy the save files from one device to another. These files are usually stored in the game’s directory or in your system’s documents folder.
3. What should I do if I lose my progress in a browser game on itch.io?
If you lose your progress, try checking your browser’s cache or history to see if any saved data is still available. If the game uses cloud saving, logging into the same account might restore your progress. Otherwise, you may need to restart the game unless the developer has provided a way to recover lost progress.
In conclusion, while itch.io offers a variety of game types, how progress is saved depends on both the game itself and whether it’s being played in a browser or downloaded. Always check the specific game’s information for saving features to avoid any surprises.