To delete Steam game save data and force a completely fresh start, you must disable Steam Cloud synchronization for the game and then manually delete the local save files. This is because Steam does not provide a built-in "delete cloud save" button; the only documented path is to prevent the old save from re-downloading and then remove it from your computer.
Step 1: Disable Steam Cloud synchronization for your game
- In your Steam Library, right-click the game and select Properties.
- Go to the Updates tab.
- Uncheck Enable Steam Cloud synchronization for [game name].
- Click Close.
This prevents Steam from re-downloading your old cloud save when you launch the game, ensuring the deletion sticks.
Step 2: Delete the local game save files
- In the same Properties window, go to the Local Files tab.
- Click Browse Local Files to open the game's installation folder. Alternatively, click the Delete Local Game Content button in this tab to remove all local game files, including saves.
- Locate the save folder, often named Save or Saves.
- Delete all files inside that folder to remove all progress.
Be careful not to delete any other game files. If you want to remove all local saves for the game, delete the entire contents of the save folder.
Optional: Manage Steam Cloud settings globally
If you want to disable cloud sync for all games at once, go to Steam > Settings > Cloud and clear the checkbox Enable Steam Cloud synchronization for applications which support it. This is the only documented save-related control in the official Steam client.
Starting the game with a clean slate
After completing the steps above, launch the game. It will create a new local save file from scratch. If you later re-enable Steam Cloud sync for the game, this new, empty save will overwrite the old one in the cloud, giving you a permanent fresh start.
What about uninstalling the game?
Manual deletion is still the most reliable method for a full reset, as uninstalling alone does not guarantee all save data is removed. To preserve your saves before deleting, use Steam's Backup and Restore feature to create a backup of game save data. Third-party tools like GameSave Manager, Steam Cleaner, and CCleaner offer alternative methods to manage or delete game saves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete a specific game's cloud save directly from Steam's servers?
No. The only control provided is turning cloud sync on or off in Settings > Cloud.
Will deleting my local save files affect my Steam achievements?
Yes, in most cases. Deleting your save data will also remove any associated progress and achievements tied to that specific save file. Achievements that have already been recorded on your Steam profile will remain, but you will need to re-earn them in a new playthrough.
How do I delete save data for a game that doesn't use a standard "Save" folder?
Some games store saves in custom locations, such as the Documents folder, AppData, or the game's own directory. You can find the exact path by checking the game's documentation or community forums. The process of disabling cloud sync and then deleting the files remains the same.
What's the difference between deleting local files and clearing cloud data?
Deleting local files removes the save from your computer.
Can I selectively delete specific game save data?
Steam does not have a built-in feature for selective deletion; you must manually locate and delete the specific files.
Does using Steam's Backup and Restore feature help with deleting save data?
No. Steam's built-in backup is for original game files only and does not include user personal data or saves. It cannot be used to delete or manage save files.
Can I delete save data for a game on another platform, like a Nintendo Switch?
No. To delete switch save data, you must use the console's own system settings or game-specific options, which are entirely separate from Steam's processes.
