Transferring your game progress to a new mobile device can be tedious and result in lost data if not done properly. However, with some preparation and the right tools, you can seamlessly move your games without losing any progress. This guide will provide methods to transfer game data between iOS and Android devices.
Table of Contents
Back Up Game Data Before Switching Devices
The first step is to back up your game progress on your old device before setting up the new one. This ensures you have a saved version to transfer over.
For iOS Devices
- Open the Settings app > iCloud > iCloud Backup and select “Back Up Now” to back up data to iCloud. This includes some game data.
- Alternatively, connect your iOS device to a computer and back up locally to iTunes. This provides a more complete backup.
For Android Devices
- Use the built-in Google backup option by going to Settings > System > Backup. Turn on “Back up to Google Drive” to automatically save app data periodically.
- Additionally, use a third-party backup app like Helium to create a local backup file as an extra precaution.
Transfer Game Progress via Cloud Saves
Many games now utilize cloud saving to store progress online. As long as you use the same login credentials when re-installing the game on your new device, your progress will sync from the cloud.
- iOS: Game Center and iCloud sync data across devices. Simply reconnect to the internet to pull progress from the cloud.
- Android: Google Play Games has cloud saving capabilities. Login to your Google account on the new device to access saved data.
Move Game Data Directly via Local Transfer
If cloud saving is not enabled in your games, you can directly transfer local app data between devices:
From iOS to iOS
- Use Apple’s Quick Start feature during setup of your new iPhone. This transfers apps and related data from one iOS device to another wirelessly.
From Android to Android
- Connect both devices via USB and use file manager apps to manually copy the game data files from the old device and paste them into the new one in the exact same folder structure.
Between iOS and Android
- Use a cross-platform data transfer app like iMyFone iTransor to backup game data from one device type and restore it to the other.
Re-install Games on New Device
The final vital step is to re-download all your games fresh on the new device via the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android). This ensures the game files are optimized for your new phone or tablet hardware. Then load the backed up progress data.
Tips to Prevent Losing Game Progress
- Double check that your games utilize and successfully upload progress to cloud saving services.
- Periodically backup game data locally to your computer for extra redundancy.
- Before resetting or upgrading devices, complete a final cloud and local game backup.
Carefully following these steps using integrated backup tools, third-party apps, cloud saves, and local data transfer will allow you to successfully migrate all your games and hard-earned progress to a new mobile device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to transfer game progress between iOS devices?
Using Apple’s Quick Start feature will wirelessly transfer game apps and associated save data to a new iPhone or iPad with minimal effort during setup.
Does factory resetting my phone delete game progress?
Yes, a factory reset erases all locally saved app data, including offline game progress. Make sure to backup this data beforehand.
Can I transfer progress if my old phone is damaged?
If the device is unusable, restore from your most recent iCloud or iTunes backup that contains the game data onto your new phone.
What do I do if my game doesn’t have cloud saves?
Manually transfer the local game data files from the old device to the same folder location on the new phone or tablet using a USB connection and file manager.
How do I restore Google Play cloud saves on a new Android device?
Simply login using the same Google account that was used on the previous device and your progress will automatically sync from the cloud.
Following the steps outlined in this guide will help you securely transfer your precious game progress across mobile devices with minimal data loss risk. Let me know if you have any other specific questions!
