A universal save-folder path has not been independently verified here. This guide explains how to locate and back up the correct files without publishing a guessed path.
Locate the files for your installation
Create a clearly named test world, save it and fully close the game. Use your file manager to locate the recently modified ZED ZONE save files, then confirm that the test world name or its files are present. The installation folder opened by Steam is not automatically the save folder.
NoteIf you cannot positively identify the files, use the in-game Feedback Center or official discussion board before changing anything.
Back up before changing anything
With the game closed, copy the complete identified save folder to a separate, dated folder. Keep the original untouched. Include both world and character data rather than assuming a single file contains everything.
NoteRecord the game build and mod set alongside the backup. Test restoration using a disposable world before relying on it for your main save.
Know who saves in co-op
The host handles saving and loading. Patch 1.0.14 specifically labels those actions as host-managed in the guest menu. That patch also says levels and skills earned in co-op no longer roll back on loading an older save, while items are restored from the save.
NoteA guest character backup is not a replacement for a host world backup. Coordinate with the person hosting.
Restore a copy carefully
Close the game before touching save files. Preserve the current folder as another backup, then restore a known-good copy to the location you positively identified. Avoid merging unrelated snapshots.
NoteCloud sync can introduce another copy of the files. Read any conflict prompt carefully and keep your backups outside the synchronized folder.
Sources & references
Reviewed against published documentation on 12 Nov 2026. Advice is editorial unless identified as a documented game behavior; no in-game testing is claimed.