Save File Not Loading

If your save file isn’t loading correctly, here are the common causes and solutions.

Check the save format

File extension

Playback uses the .sav format. If your save has a different extension:

• .srm files (from Everdrive) should work — see Everdrive Save Transfers
• Rename other extensions to .sav if the data is compatible

Save size mismatch

Some games expect specific save file sizes. If you’re uploading a save from a different source:

• The save may have been created with different settings
• Some emulators create larger or smaller save files
• Try the save anyway — it may still work

Compatibility issues

Wrong game version

A save from one version of a game may not work with another:

• Japanese saves may not work on US cartridges
• Different regional releases can have incompatible save formats
• Some game revisions have different save structures

Different save type

GBA and SNES® games use various save types (SRAM, EEPROM, Flash). A save from:

• An emulator configured for the wrong type won’t work
• A different cartridge variant may be incompatible

Cartridge issues

Dead battery

For games with battery-backed saves (GB, GBC, and SNES cartridges):

• A dead battery means saves won’t persist
• Back up your save immediately
• See Measuring Cartridge Battery

Reproduction cartridge

Counterfeit cartridges often have save issues:

• Non-standard save mechanisms
• Modified game code
• Poor quality components

See Rewritable Cartridge Save Issues.

Troubleshooting steps

1. Back up before changes — Always keep a copy of your save
2. Verify the save source — Make sure it’s from a compatible game version
3. Check cartridge authenticity — Reproductions have more save issues
4. Test with in-game saves — Create a new save in-game to verify the cartridge works
5. Clean cartridge pins — Poor contact can corrupt save operations

Getting help

If you’ve verified compatibility and saves still won’t load, contact us with:

• The game title and region
• Where the save file came from
• Whether in-game saving works