http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/10.page JForum - http://www.jforum.net all
[size=18]Finding Your Saves Folder[/size]
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

[size=18]Instructions[/size]
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.

[size=18]Conclusion[/size]
Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it. I'm sure someone such as Lawertend, or Unsecretcrush can help out if you're on Mac.

[size=18]-------------------[/size]

[size=18][b]Troubleshooting/FAQ's[/b][/size]
Question:
[b]I don't have a SIMS3 file, but I do have a backup file. What can I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Try making a copy of your backup file, and then renaming it to end with .sims3.[/b]

Question:
[b]There are only two files - .sims3, and .bad. What do I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Delete your .bad file. Don't worry about having no backup file. The game will regenerate one, automatically.[/b]

[size=18][b]Still Having Trouble?[/b][/size]

If you're still having trouble with your game, try these links to solve your problem.

[url=http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/79541.page][b]CRASH TO DESKTOP - Possible Solution[/b][/url]
[url=http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/12822.page][b]A list of unofficial bugs and issues with The Sims 3 *UPDATED 06/18 - 2 NEW FIXES!*[/b][/url]

]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813130.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813130.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813256.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813256.page GMT
You're welcome! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813331.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/813331.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/836366.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/836366.page GMT [/quote]

Did you delete the .sims3 file first, or rename the backup file first? ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/836879.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/836879.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/839658.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/839658.page GMT
You saved my life! ( Kind of)
I am not gonna forget this. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/839710.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/839710.page GMT
1: Get a kitchen timer, set it for an hour, and place it next to your computer.
b: When the timer goes off, Save and Exit, and reset the timer.
4: Start playing again. Rinse and repeat.

It seems the error codes come up when the game is played for several hours without an exit.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/854464.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/854464.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/863106.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/863106.page GMT I saved it normally, no crashed, but why... ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/870060.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/870060.page GMT I saved it normally, no crashed, but why... [/quote]


When you renamed your backup file, did the "type" change to "SIMS 3" file? Or did it still say "BACKUP FILE"?

Did you delete the file that says .bad? You need to delete any files that end with .bad or your game will still be corrupted.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/873682.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/873682.page GMT
First off, delete any files that end with .bad
If you leave that in, your game will still be corrupted.

Second, after you delete .bad just load your game and your game should be back. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/873711.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/873711.page GMT You saved 5 generations of hard work x]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/874211.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/874211.page GMT You saved 5 generations of hard work x[/quote]

You're welcome!
Just helping people with their games, one save at a time.

Good luck with the rest of your legacy!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/874326.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/874326.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/875292.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/875292.page GMT [/quote]

Glad I could help! Now you know what to do in case this happens again. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/877562.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/877562.page GMT
Hopefully, your advice will work for me as well. Thank you. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/878520.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/878520.page GMT
Hopefully, your advice will work for me as well. Thank you. [/quote]

Game frozen when paused? That sounds like a memory issue. Try upgrading your ram, and see if that makes a difference. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/883886.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/883886.page GMT
First off, delete any files that end with .bad
If you leave that in, your game will still be corrupted.

Second, after you delete .bad just load your game and your game should be back. [/quote]

There's no .bad file in my folder. I moved the whole EA folder before I format it.
Other saves without .bad files are ok, only this file.

But thanks a lot anyway ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/891294.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/891294.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/904897.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/904897.page GMT
First off, delete any files that end with .bad
If you leave that in, your game will still be corrupted.

Second, after you delete .bad just load your game and your game should be back. [/quote]

There's no .bad file in my folder. I moved the whole EA folder before I format it.
Other saves without .bad files are ok, only this file.

But thanks a lot anyway [/quote]

You're welcome!
The .bad file generally appears when you get error code 12, or 13. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909131.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909131.page GMT
Glad I could help. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909135.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909135.page GMT Thank you]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909199.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909199.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909206.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909206.page GMT Thank you[/quote]

This reverting saves trick doesn't work unless the saved game has a .bad file.
You said Sunset Valley had three backup files. Try making a copy of the most recent Sunset Valley backup, and renaming it to yourtownname.sims3.

Sunset Valley should return. If not, let me know. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909282.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/909282.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/915173.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/915173.page GMT [/quote]

You're welcome. Glad this guide helped you out.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/917139.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/917139.page GMT
Since I spent like my whole life on it yesterday oh dear.

Should probably go out more

Thanks in advance. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/923982.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/923982.page GMT
Just a quick question though; does anyone know why this happens?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/924701.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/924701.page GMT
Just a quick question though; does anyone know why this happens?[/quote]

I've noticed it happens when you go several hours without saving. By not saving often, your save could become corrupted.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/928484.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/928484.page GMT
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

Name Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file.


If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.


I hope you can follow this tutorial, it's pretty simple, and will save a lot of posts asking how to retrieve your saved game.


Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it. I'm sure someone such as Lawertend, or Unsecretcrush can help out if you're on Mac.

[/quote]

Hi Shadow I followed all the instrustions but now when I open the Sims 3, I can't click on the saved game although it's showing up. It has a blank picture of the family but it shows when it was last saved/accessed and the name of the family. But like I said I can't play it.

I had one backup file and followed the instructions but nothing. Is there anything else I can do? thanks so much.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933099.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933099.page GMT
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

Name Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file.


If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.


I hope you can follow this tutorial, it's pretty simple, and will save a lot of posts asking how to retrieve your saved game.


Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it. I'm sure someone such as Lawertend, or Unsecretcrush can help out if you're on Mac.

[/quote]

Hi Shadow I followed all the instrustions but now when I open the Sims 3, I can't click on the saved game although it's showing up. It has a blank picture of the family but it shows when it was last saved/accessed and the name of the family. But like I said I can't play it.

I had one backup file and followed the instructions but nothing. Is there anything else I can do? thanks so much.[/quote]

Like I said in another post, try making a copy of your one backup file, and rename that to yourtownname.sims3.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933145.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933145.page GMT

I've made some updates to the first post. The first post now includes a Troubleshooting/FAQ section.
This section includes frequently diagnosed problems and questions.

-------------------

[size=18][b]Troubleshooting/FAQ's[/b][/size]
Question:
[b]I don't have a SIMS3 file, but I do have a backup file. What can I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Try making a copy of your backup file, and then renaming it to end with .sims3.[/b]

Question:
[b]There are only two files - .sims3, and .bad. What do I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Delete your .bad file. Don't worry about having no backup file. The game will regenerate one, automatically.[/b]
]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933190.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/933190.page GMT
Just a quick question though; does anyone know why this happens?[/quote]

I've noticed it happens when you go several hours without saving. By not saving often, your save could become corrupted.[/quote]

Ah, I see. That would make sense as I hadn't saved for several hours the day before. I usually get a bit save happy because I'm paranoid it'll crash. Now I'm paranoid I'll lose my game if I don't, lol! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/934834.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/934834.page GMT
Just a quick question though; does anyone know why this happens?[/quote]

I've noticed it happens when you go several hours without saving. By not saving often, your save could become corrupted.[/quote]

Ah, I see. That would make sense as I hadn't saved for several hours the day before. I usually get a bit save happy because I'm paranoid it'll crash. Now I'm paranoid I'll lose my game if I don't, lol! [/quote]

Don't be paranoid. As long as you know these steps, you shouldn't worry about losing your game. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/942361.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/942361.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952398.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952398.page GMT
Try deleting the caches in [b]MyDocuments[/b].
(don't worry, the game regenerates caches.)

Delete the following caches:
scriptCache
compositorCache
Contents of WorldCaches folder
(Go to the WorldCaches folder, and delete the contents INSIDE of it.)

After that, make a copy of your .sims3 file.
]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952453.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952453.page GMT
Try deleting the caches in [b]MyDocuments[/b].
(don't worry, the game regenerates caches.)

Delete the following caches:
scriptCache
compositorCache
Contents of WorldCaches folder
(Go to the WorldCaches folder, and delete the contents INSIDE of it.)

After that, make a copy of your .sims3 file.
[/quote]

Do I delete my original once I've cleared those caches and made the copy?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952733.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952733.page GMT
Try deleting the caches in [b]MyDocuments[/b].
(don't worry, the game regenerates caches.)

Delete the following caches:
scriptCache
compositorCache
Contents of WorldCaches folder
(Go to the WorldCaches folder, and delete the contents INSIDE of it.)

After that, make a copy of your .sims3 file.
[/quote]

Do I delete my original once I've cleared those caches and made the copy?[/quote]

Yes, after you delete those caches and made the copy, delete the original.
I hope it works.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952772.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/952772.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/953146.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/953146.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959309.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959309.page GMT
The Sims 3's backup file only rolls back to the last time you saved. That's why it's a good idea to save often.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959976.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959976.page GMT
Here's another solution.
Try moving your saves folder to your desktop, and reinstalling Riverview.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959996.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/959996.page GMT
I start a sad topic about my lost game and now I could solve this with your help!
Thank you very much! You are helpful and selfless, so you are simple great ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981411.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981411.page GMT
I start a sad topic about my lost game and now I could solve this with your help!
Thank you very much! You are helpful and selfless, so you are simple great [/quote]

You're welcome!
And I had just posted in your thread. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981456.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981456.page GMT
I start a sad topic about my lost game and now I could solve this with your help!
Thank you very much! You are helpful and selfless, so you are simple great [/quote]

You're welcome!
And I had just posted in your thread. [/quote]

And I answered to your post. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981529.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/981529.page GMT
I start a sad topic about my lost game and now I could solve this with your help!
Thank you very much! You are helpful and selfless, so you are simple great [/quote]

You're welcome!
And I had just posted in your thread. [/quote]

And I answered to your post. [/quote]

And I answered to your post. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/983590.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/983590.page GMT
Ive just loaded the Sims 3 to find that my entire family i recently created has been wiped. Completely. Along with other families, lots & the listed downloaded content: hairstyles, the free town Riverview, a few sets that i got from the Sims Store.. pretty much basically [b]everything[/b] ive created & downloaded. When i got to the main menu it was like starting the game for the first time again, giving me no options for playing selecting my created families, just straight onto Sunset Valley from the drop down menu, also no Riverview town as i mentioned before on the drop down menu. Ive had no problems with the game before, no errors, crashes or anything like that. This has only happened once, that my data has been wiped, & only since i started getting the updates & updating. Also i checked my The Sims 3 folder to look for the saved games folder, & its not there. Am guessing that got wiped too along with my saves. Really not to happy about this right now, & i was wondering if you could help me please?

Sorry for the long rant, just really annoyed cus this has never happened before. Not before the updates anyway.

Thanks ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/997535.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/997535.page GMT
Ive just loaded the Sims 3 to find that my entire family i recently created has been wiped. Completely. Along with other families, lots & the listed downloaded content: hairstyles, the free town Riverview, a few sets that i got from the Sims Store.. pretty much basically [b]everything[/b] ive created & downloaded. When i got to the main menu it was like starting the game for the first time again, giving me no options for playing selecting my created families, just straight onto Sunset Valley from the drop down menu, also no Riverview town as i mentioned before on the drop down menu. Ive had no problems with the game before, no errors, crashes or anything like that. This has only happened once, that my data has been wiped, & only since i started getting the updates & updating. Also i checked my The Sims 3 folder to look for the saved games folder, & its not there. Am guessing that got wiped too along with my saves. Really not to happy about this right now, & i was wondering if you could help me please?

Sorry for the long rant, just really annoyed cus this has never happened before. Not before the updates anyway.

Thanks [/quote]

First question, do you use any kind of mods or CC from third party sites?
Have you checked your anti-virus software? It's possible you got a virus from CC, or mods.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/998014.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/998014.page GMT

It now reads:

[quote=Shadow]Have you ever loaded your game to find your saved game missing, or error code 13 while saving and lost your progress? To retrieve your saved game, do the following:

[size=18]Finding Your Saves Folder[/size]
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

[size=18]Instructions[/size]
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.


[size=18]Conclusion[/size]
Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it. I'm sure someone such as Lawertend, or Unsecretcrush can help out if you're on Mac.

[size=18]-------------------[/size]

[size=18][b]Troubleshooting/FAQ's[/b][/size]
Question:
[b]I don't have a SIMS3 file, but I do have a backup file. What can I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Try making a copy of your backup file, and then renaming it to end with .sims3.[/b]

Question:
[b]There are only two files - .sims3, and .bad. What do I do?[/b]
Answer:
[b]Delete your .bad file. Don't worry about having no backup file. The game will regenerate one, automatically.[/b]
[/quote]

]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/998717.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/998717.page GMT
Not happy as i've been playing for hours and now want to go to bed.

I followed the instructions as per this thread ane it didn't seem to work, however;

I deleted the .BAD files as said and still couldn't save, so i went to town mode, it asked me whether i wanted to save, i clicked yes - it failed. Then i tried again this time clicking no just continue.

Town mode came up and my house was still there, so i saved game. It saved fine in town mode.

Then i went back to continue game, so far all fine. I then saved - IT WORKED.

I finally saved and quit (just to be extra sure) and hoorah it's worked!

And it's loaded up fine.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1010600.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1010600.page GMT
Not happy as i've been playing for hours and now want to go to bed.

I followed the instructions as per this thread ane it didn't seem to work, however;

I deleted the .BAD files as said and still couldn't save, so i went to town mode, it asked me whether i wanted to save, i clicked yes - it failed. Then i tried again this time clicking no just continue.

Town mode came up and my house was still there, so i saved game. It saved fine in town mode.

Then i went back to continue game, so far all fine. I then saved - IT WORKED.

I finally saved and quit (just to be extra sure) and hoorah it's worked!

And it's loaded up fine.[/quote]

I'm glad you fixed error code 13.
I've noticed that Edit Town saving sometimes works, or using save as can even work.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1012059.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1012059.page GMT Thank you so very much. Months of work lost and then retrieved. Thanks, man.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1015114.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1015114.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1018223.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1018223.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021045.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021045.page GMT Thank you so very much. Months of work lost and then retrieved. Thanks, man.[/quote]

You're welcome. Glad I could get back months of hard work.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021270.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021270.page GMT
[size=18]Finding Your Saves Folder[/size]
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

[size=18]Instructions[/size]
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.
]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021285.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1021285.page GMT
[size=18]Finding Your Saves Folder[/size]
1. Go to [b]My Documents[/b].
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

[size=18]Instructions[/size]
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.
[/quote]

**** thnxx but ummm srrry but uhhh mine is set up likee this


name:Riverview.sims3 type:SIMS3 File
name:Riverview.sims3 type:BACKUP File

so now im not sure wat too dooo cause when i right click and press rename it only lets me rename name not type so shud i just delete the one i dont want or make the one i dont want Riverview.sims3.backup?? soooo srryyy bout thiss but thnxx soooo muchhh
p.s. there were also categories called date modified, size and tags but i guessed that thosee didnt matter...

]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1024871.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1024871.page GMT

name:Riverview.sims3 type:SIMS3 File
name:Riverview.sims3 type:BACKUP File

so now im not sure wat too dooo cause when i right click and press rename it only lets me rename name not type so shud i just delete the one i dont want or make the one i dont want Riverview.sims3.backup?? soooo srryyy bout thiss but thnxx soooo muchhh
p.s. there were also categories called date modified, size and tags but i guessed that thosee didnt matter...

[/quote]

[size=18]Rename Riverview.sims3.backup to Riverview.sims3.
Delete Riverview.sims3.[/size]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1026584.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1026584.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027065.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027065.page GMT


[size=18]Rename Riverview.sims3.backup to Riverview.sims3. [/size]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027210.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027210.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027426.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027426.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027522.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027522.page GMT [/quote]

If I were you, I'd only use it if you have corrupted saves.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027680.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1027680.page GMT
The same thing happened to me earlier today. I absolutely LOVED the family that I lost. I gave in and just deleted the whole thing.......time to move on. None of the tricks worked. I may just go in and reinstall Riverview. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029293.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029293.page GMT i cannpt change the word backup i tried changing the name to Riverview.sims3.backup and then deleting .backup but it did not work it is still the BACKUP not the actual file
i no i mustt sound verry annoying but i REALLY want this family back i am sooooooo srryyy it just wont change from the backup to the actual file if there is nooo hope just tell me nd ill givee up kay?? i am veryyyyyyyyyy veryyyyy veryyyyy srrry nd thnx again ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029617.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029617.page GMT i cannpt change the word backup i tried changing the name to Riverview.sims3.backup and then deleting .backup but it did not work it is still the BACKUP not the actual file
i no i mustt sound verry annoying but i REALLY want this family back i am sooooooo srryyy it just wont change from the backup to the actual file if there is nooo hope just tell me nd ill givee up kay?? i am veryyyyyyyyyy veryyyyy veryyyyy srrry nd thnx again [/quote]

When you started your game, did it work?
And you might want to delete the contents of the WorldCaches folder, and the scriptCache.
(Don't worry, the game will regenerate these files.)]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029732.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1029732.page GMT i cannpt change the word backup i tried changing the name to Riverview.sims3.backup and then deleting .backup but it did not work it is still the BACKUP not the actual file
i no i mustt sound verry annoying but i REALLY want this family back i am sooooooo srryyy it just wont change from the backup to the actual file if there is nooo hope just tell me nd ill givee up kay?? i am veryyyyyyyyyy veryyyyy veryyyyy srrry nd thnx again [/quote]

When you started your game, did it work?
And you might want to delete the contents of the WorldCaches folder, and the scriptCache.
(Don't worry, the game will regenerate these files.)[/quote]

ummm when i started the game the file that had saved over my file was gone but my file was still not there...and okay i'll try that thnxxx but it wont mess up the other files rite cause my friend and brother have one...]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033167.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033167.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033188.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033188.page GMT I guess i'll have to start over rite?? but thank youuu soo much againn]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033235.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1033235.page GMT
You're welcome! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1035449.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1035449.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1046308.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1046308.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1046468.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1046468.page GMT
Ive just loaded the Sims 3 to find that my entire family i recently created has been wiped. Completely. Along with other families, lots & the listed downloaded content: hairstyles, the free town Riverview, a few sets that i got from the Sims Store.. pretty much basically [b]everything[/b] ive created & downloaded. When i got to the main menu it was like starting the game for the first time again, giving me no options for playing selecting my created families, just straight onto Sunset Valley from the drop down menu, also no Riverview town as i mentioned before on the drop down menu. Ive had no problems with the game before, no errors, crashes or anything like that. This has only happened once, that my data has been wiped, & only since i started getting the updates & updating. Also i checked my The Sims 3 folder to look for the saved games folder, & its not there. Am guessing that got wiped too along with my saves. Really not to happy about this right now, & i was wondering if you could help me please?

Sorry for the long rant, just really annoyed cus this has never happened before. Not before the updates anyway.

Thanks [/quote]

First question, do you use any kind of mods or CC from third party sites?
Have you checked your anti-virus software? It's possible you got a virus from CC, or mods.[/quote]


How does custom content affect the saved file?

I was going to try to do what you intructed but there is absolutely no files in my saves... sad. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1048540.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1048540.page GMT
Last night it happened again. This time it happened not ten minutes after my last save. So saving often didn't make a difference in my case. My first thought when I got the error message was "that was a close one" because I had just saved. I figured I'd just go in my saves folder and rename the backup. That's when the problem started, there wasn't a backup file. When this all happened the first time I had noticed that it wasn't making a backup file. I thought the game made one automatically but since it hadn't, I decided to make a copy of the main file and rename as the backup. I have no clue what happened to my backup file and I guess now my hours of game play and multi-generational family are lost...again!

Am I wrong in thinking that the backup file is suppose to be automatically made and updated with each save? Could my taking the main file and renaming it as a backup cause it to disappear? I really hope you can explain this to me better. I'm so frustrated!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1052277.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1052277.page GMT
Last night it happened again. This time it happened not ten minutes after my last save. So saving often didn't make a difference in my case. My first thought when I got the error message was "that was a close one" because I had just saved. I figured I'd just go in my saves folder and rename the backup. That's when the problem started, there wasn't a backup file. When this all happened the first time I had noticed that it wasn't making a backup file. I thought the game made one automatically but since it hadn't, I decided to make a copy of the main file and rename as the backup. I have no clue what happened to my backup file and I guess now my hours of game play and multi-generational family are lost...again!

Am I wrong in thinking that the backup file is suppose to be automatically made and updated with each save? Could my taking the main file and renaming it as a backup cause it to disappear? I really hope you can explain this to me better. I'm so frustrated![/quote]

Did you have any .bad files?
If you have no backup but bad files, delete the .bad file, and rename your backup that you renamed back to .sims3.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1055332.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1055332.page GMT
I was enamored the first time I read this post because I was able to save hours of game play that I thought was gone. But now, I am getting the error codes 12 and 13 and it seems that saving frequently does nothing to help. What now seems to be happening is everytime I have a party, it will not save after that even if I saved right before it. Now I thought that maybe the hack for allowing more party members could be the problem, but it did the same after deleting that hack. I can no longer just change the name and get the game back as well. I have deleted the cache files that you reccomended and that did nothing as well for my lost games. Please help.

]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1056146.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1056146.page GMT
*rummages around in backpack and pulls out shiny, shiny object*

Here, have a nice pre-emptive "Thank You!" ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1056460.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1056460.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1057909.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1057909.page GMT I wish I found this link sooner ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1071868.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1071868.page GMT

Although I am a little upset, the save I got back was from my last save, and from the point of where I was, my Sims got A LOT of opportunities. But oh well, better to have them then lose them.

Thanks again!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1072146.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1072146.page GMT Please help.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1072227.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1072227.page GMT Please help.[/quote]

Did you revert the backup to .sims3, and delete the SIMS3 file?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1075544.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1075544.page GMT
For those who are experiencing crash or error code issues when saving, the following thread may provide a solution:

http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/79541.page;jsessionid=AC1A577915DE59CF6BDEFEBBBB6593F3.015051

(You might want to add this to page 1 of your handy guide, Shadow.)]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1075633.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1075633.page GMT

I kept the bkup and just made a copy/renaimed and it's bk. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1076002.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1076002.page GMT
What's wrong here?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1085775.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1085775.page GMT
This solution is for corrupted save files. It reverts saves to the last time you ever saved.

I recommend only using it if you're having problems.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1087440.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1087440.page GMT I did the delete .bad, delete the original .sim3 file and switch .backup to .sim3 and nada.
My last ditch attempt was to move my save file to my desktop and reinstall riverview (as this was the town that the "corrupt" .sim3 file was in), created a experiment town, quit, reloaded my .sim3 folders (from my saved folder on the desktop) to the new saves folder in the my docs and it didn't work. I still get the "A serious error has occurred while loading..blah blah blah, etc etc"

Any last suggestions before I call time on my little town and have mass funerals for all of my sims?
I was playing all of my sims in the same town for months now. :-\ So sad..I was doing well and then suddenly my game would crash to the desktop without due cause, blip, no warning. Went from watching my sims to seeing my desktop picture. It happens several times and then last night I get booted to the desktop, restart like normal (redecorate the bathrooms for the 2nd time) go to save my changes, they save normal, go to save them ten minutes later (paranoid by now) and I get error 13! Two times in a row, then crashes to desktop. I went to bed, then come back this morning to this blasted serious error business. >
I am not a very happy simmer right now. :-\
(Sorry this is so long, just turned into a rant)]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1092885.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1092885.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093207.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093207.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093382.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093382.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093501.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1093501.page GMT
edit: Sorry it took a bit to reply, went off for dinner and some football to alleviate my sims frustration.

Further Update: Problem solved, the saved game works again! After I made a fresh reinstall of the game, I gave the saved game a shot and it didn't work. So figuring I had nothing to lose as it was already lost, I deleted the day and previous day DCbackup's inside the file and it seemed to have done the job. Wished I would have deleted them earlier. Maybe it was a solve and maybe it was just a corrupt item that I couldn't find to delete. But either way I am happily back in my saved game, which now has a secondary back up, just in case.

Thank you for your help though, Nichaedemus. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1094477.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1094477.page GMT
This solution is for corrupted save files. It reverts saves to the last time you ever saved.

I recommend only using it if you're having problems.[/quote]

Well, my dear, I am having a problem. The last time I tried to save my game, to shutdown in the middle of the save. I went back into the game to find all my was Sims and progress were gone. I'm basically at the point of starting all over again. All my custom content that was saved in the appropriate bins were still there, but everything was wiped clean.

I don't know what I could do to recover my game. I don't want to start all over again. It took me months to get to where I was. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1106676.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1106676.page GMT
This solution is for corrupted save files. It reverts saves to the last time you ever saved.

I recommend only using it if you're having problems.[/quote]

Well, my dear, I am having a problem. The last time I tried to save my game, to shutdown in the middle of the save. I went back into the game to find all my was Sims and progress were gone. I'm basically at the point of starting all over again. All my custom content that was saved in the appropriate bins were still there, but everything was wiped clean.

I don't know what I could do to recover my game. I don't want to start all over again. It took me months to get to where I was. [/quote]

Do you have a backup file? If you have a backup file, rename that to .sims3, and clear you caches in MyDocuments.

That would be:
CASPartCache
simCompositorCache
compositorCache
scriptCache]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1112942.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1112942.page GMT
That shouldn't be a problem.
Did you have any problems starting up your game?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1129901.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1129901.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1129371.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1129371.page GMT I just had the problem today and decided to check out the forums.

If we had benes to give you would have all of mine for today ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1161447.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1161447.page GMT I only lost a few hours of playing. Thank you thank you!!!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1184465.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1184465.page GMT Also thanks for the tip on saving more frequently. I'm glad that's the cause and not something else - at least I can correct that!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1182604.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1182604.page GMT
This solution is for corrupted save files. It reverts saves to the last time you ever saved.

I recommend only using it if you're having problems.[/quote]

Well, my dear, I am having a problem. The last time I tried to save my game, to shutdown in the middle of the save. I went back into the game to find all my was Sims and progress were gone. I'm basically at the point of starting all over again. All my custom content that was saved in the appropriate bins were still there, but everything was wiped clean.

I don't know what I could do to recover my game. I don't want to start all over again. It took me months to get to where I was. [/quote]

This is EXACTLY what happened to me - except I haven't even downloaded custom content. I have been playing the game as sold, no cheats, nothing. I was heartbroken last night. I can't wait to try this tonight. I'm hoping it works, I was on the 4th generation of my family. I'd saved about 2-3 hours before... so hopefully I am a little close to where I was during the save/crash thing. Sigh.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1182616.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1182616.page GMT so i lost my neighborhood got deleted.
I went to the electronic arts folder in my computer, then clicked on the sims 3 folder.There is no saves or save folder in there
and i cannot find any of my saved games. Though other neighborhoods show up in the game. Its just the one that I'm missing and I want to find so i can delete the backup. But i can't even find the files UGHH ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1190677.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1190677.page GMT so i lost my neighborhood got deleted.
I went to the electronic arts folder in my computer, then clicked on the sims 3 folder.There is no saves or save folder in there
and i cannot find any of my saved games. Though other neighborhoods show up in the game. Its just the one that I'm missing and I want to find so i can delete the backup. But i can't even find the files UGHH [/quote]

Did you go in MyComputer or MyDocuments?]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1220776.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1220776.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1231973.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1231973.page GMT
[IMG]http://i36.tinypic.com/awz0r4.jpg[/IMG]
i click yes then i get this
[IMG]http://i33.tinypic.com/nn5w6x.jpg[/IMG]

Help? ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1240365.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1240365.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1241507.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1241507.page GMT thank you, Nichaedemus ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1241740.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1241740.page GMT
I have followed your instructions and it still hasnt worked I have deleted all my copies of the Sims 3 Folder. And it still isn't working. Im so annoyed as i have never had any trouble with the game before. Can you help me please Shadow. Thank you. ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246618.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246618.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246664.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246664.page GMT

Just a list of saved games all with back up files apart from the one i deleted and renamed SunsetValley.sims3 which hasnt got a backup even though i went back on sims 3 and it didnt work The game didnt create a back up file.

So just a list of saved games all with back up files apart from the one i deleted and renamed like the instructions said.

I have no .bad files.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246750.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1246750.page GMT
Any save file that ends with a .bad extension is considered irrevocably damaged and should be deleted at once. This policy also applies to save files ending in .sims3 [i]and[/i] fail to load up in the game. For save games that end with .backup, rename those file extensions back to .sim3 and they should work with the game once more.

It is important to note that save files created in the latest version of the game will [i]not[/i] work with previous game versions (1.0, 1.2, 1.3 etc.). You will either have to update your game back to the correct version or start a brand new game.

A good practice to get into is to make regular manual backups of your save files because, apparently, the game does not always create automatic recovery files as it should. It is highly recommended that you use descriptive names to tell your save files apart. Finally, do avoid using spaces or odd characters when naming your save games.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1248061.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1248061.page GMT
Any save file that ends with a .bad extension is considered irrevocably damaged and should be deleted at once. This policy also applies to save files ending in .sims3 [i]and[/i] fail to load up in the game. For save games that end with .backup, rename those file extensions back to .sim3 and they should work with the game once more.

It is important to note that save files created in the latest version of the game will [i]not[/i] work with previous game versions (1.0, 1.2, 1.3 etc.). You will either have to update your game back to the correct version or start a brand new game.

A good practice to get into is to make regular manual backups of your save files because, apparently, the game does not always create automatic recovery files as it should. It is highly recommended that you use descriptive names to tell your save files apart. Finally, do avoid using spaces or odd characters when naming your save games.[/quote]


No I did have a back up for sunset valley but i renamed it to SunsetValley.sims3 like the instructions said and then deleted the oringal SunsetValley.sims3. I never renamed a .bad file as i never had one. So what do i do?

For furture note how do i manally back up files.

P.S My game is updated to the lastest verison.

Pp.s If i have to start over how do i get my installed content back?

Thankyou for you help.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1250624.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1250624.page GMT
How do I back up my saved games?
http://easims.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/easims.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=22753

Content that has been obtained from the EA Store or the Exchange are stored in a folder called Downloads which you will also want to keep a backup of.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1252724.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1252724.page GMT I thought Shad was banned, so why is his HELPFUL thread still up? He told me what happend and I am still wondering why you banned one of the most helpful simmers in this community for referring someone to GOGLE!

Thats just rude! Kind of reminds me of the rest of the good simmers banned for no reason! Ugh!

Bring em' back!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1253050.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1253050.page GMT
[quote=theworldamishap4]okay, so i deleted the actual file now i ONLY have the backup file, but no matter wat i dooo it remains the BACKUP File. [color=red][b]it does not say Riverview.sims3.backup it says Riverview.sims3 type: BACKUP File[/b][/color]i cannpt change the word backup i tried changing the name to Riverview.sims3.backup and then deleting .backup but it did not work it is still the BACKUP not the actual file
i no i mustt sound verry annoying but i REALLY want this family back i am sooooooo srryyy it just wont change from the backup to the actual file if there is nooo hope just tell me nd ill givee up kay?? i am veryyyyyyyyyy veryyyyy veryyyyy srrry nd thnx again [/quote]

[quote=cbgluvmcr]Please help if u can. I understand how to change the file name on my backup file that's not the problem. [color=red][b]My problem is that even if i change the name on the file the file TYPE still says BACKUP.[/color][/b] Is there any ways to change the file TYPE?[/quote]

I browsed through the entire thread & there wasn't a solution for this type, so I extended my searches & found an answer.
Perhaps the next neurotic simmer could seek "solace" with the following:-

> Open the Windows Start Menu, select "Run"
> Type in the word: 'explorer' (without the quotes)
> Hit "Enter" then a new MyDocuments would appear
> Under that page, click on "Tools" & select the "Folder Options"
> Now, select the "View" tab
> Deselect the option box that says: "Hide File Extensions for Known File Types"

Tadah!
You should now be able to see the file as xxx.sims3.backup instead of previous (Name of File: xxx.sims3 & File Type: Backup).

Continue by renaming the file, following Shawdow's steps:

[quote]Shadow wrote:

Finding Your Saves Folder
1. Go to My Documents.
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

Instructions
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.[/quote]

It's just a simple tweak to our PC configurations which I reckon it's not really related to the game itself & so it might have been overlooked.
Hope this would work for troubled games & happy SIMMING! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1282696.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1282696.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285857.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285857.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285930.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285930.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285985.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1285985.page GMT This didn't work for me....]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1299532.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1299532.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1302767.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1302767.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1302924.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1302924.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325024.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325024.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325412.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325412.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325712.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1325712.page GMT
Say my game crashed while saving...]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1372790.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1372790.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1372838.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1372838.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375407.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375407.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375455.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375455.page GMT
Thankyou SOO much!!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375806.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1375806.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1389348.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1389348.page GMT
For future reference, the correct sequence of instructions is as follows:

[quote][u]Instructions[/u]

Delete Sunset Valley.sims3
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3[/quote]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1389404.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1389404.page GMT ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1398079.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1398079.page GMT
Finding Your Saves Folder
1. Go to My Documents.
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

Instructions
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.

Conclusion
Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it.
Hope this helps some people. 8-)

[i]Over at our forum 'cakeface' Shadow asked us if we could deliver this message to you guys. He said sine you guys were requesting help you needed this. His words, not mine.[/i]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1402822.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1402822.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1405226.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1405226.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1444030.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1444030.page GMT thanks so much!!!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1444053.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1444053.page GMT id' done loads of things to try and sort this out!
and i read your post and it took me 1 minute and it was done.

thanks again!]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1482749.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1482749.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1506249.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1506249.page GMT
How do I back up my saved games?
http://easims.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/easims.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=22753]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1507381.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1507381.page GMT
Thanks a million for the advice.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1511366.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1511366.page GMT
For those that do not appear ".sims3.backup" ... make sure you have deselected "Hide extensions for known file types" in "Start-Settings-Control Panel-Folder Options-double click on this - from there select "View" - and deselect "Hide extensions for known file types". That worked for me. After that in "Save" folder appear both files.
I hope that will help! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1549084.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1549084.page GMT . please help



edit: umm idk what all that stuff there was but here ill post it again lol but please reply back.


hey shadow i want to know if all of this will work for the new patch for the sims 3 (1.5/1.6). i dont want my save files to delete because i have about 9+ of generations in my sims game. so will this work for the sims 3 new patch because i have read all the problems with it and i dont wanna lose my save files. please help!




edit(again): ok just ignore what i said but i still need help lol sorry im new to the forums]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1568158.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1568158.page GMT
For those who are using game version 1.6.6 or later, please refer to the following EA Support article for instructions on save file recovery:

http://easims.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/easims.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_sid=y8HafoNj&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_faqid=23834]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1574981.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1574981.page GMT
My problem, at least now (have not even [u]tried[/u] to play since all the problems), two families are noted as "Sunset Valley C. Steel Cannot load this save game. It may have been saved with expansion pack data that is no longer present on this system". Do you have any idea what to do with this particular little minor glitch? ? ? And, yes that wonderful EP (WA) IS present on the system.

Please help if you can.

]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1575563.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1575563.page GMT
Finding Your Saves Folder
1. Go to My Documents.
2. Electronic Arts
3. The Sims 3
4. Saves

After that, find your saved game's name. If you named your game Sunset Valley, you should see:
Sunset Valley.sims3
Sunset Valley.sims3.backup

Instructions
Rename Sunset Valley.sims3.backup to Sunset Valley.sims3
Delete Sunset Valley.sims3

If you have a file that ends with .bad, delete that. Anything that ends with .bad, delete.

Start up your game, and your town will be back. The game will auto generate another backup file. If you don't have a backup file, all you need to do is just delete SunsetValley.bad, and your saved game should return.

Conclusion
Since this is a PC only tutorial, I can't do Mac as I'm not familiar with with it. I'm sure someone such as Lawertend, or Unsecretcrush can help out if you're on Mac.

-------------------

Troubleshooting/FAQ's
Question:
I don't have a SIMS3 file, but I do have a backup file. What can I do?
Answer:
Try making a copy of your backup file, and then renaming it to end with .sims3.

Question:
There are only two files - .sims3, and .bad. What do I do?
Answer:
Delete your .bad file. Don't worry about having no backup file. The game will regenerate one, automatically.

Still Having Trouble?

If you're still having trouble with your game, try these links to solve your problem.

CRASH TO DESKTOP - Possible Solution
A list of unofficial bugs and issues with The Sims 3 *UPDATED 06/18 - 2 NEW FIXES!* [/quote]

----------------------------------------------------------------
I was wondering if you could help me. Well, the problem is that I don't have a .bad file , all of my files are fine and I don't have a legacy file for Agnes2 [saved game name- which had all of the latest stuff I did] I only have a legacy file for Agnes [saved game name-saved a long long time ago]. It all started when the power was down.. I played for a while with the backup battery and constantly saved the game just in case it would shut down unnexpectedly,then as I was saving it once again once the save was done the computer shut down [due to the back up battery].When the power came back I immediately turned down the computer to continue playing but for my suprise the file wasn't there [ just the old file I saved long long ago]. I tried restarting the computer and it didn't work , so then I tried looking for answers but none seem to fit my situation.Please, I'm begging you! Help meeeeeeee!!

Thanls In Advance


]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1854627.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1854627.page GMT This had been working for quite some time, however recently I discovered my first saved family had disappeared from the Sunset Valley startup menu. And my second family saved game (File name Johnson) was now called the name of the first family.
Their house/ game icon has disappeared from the Sunset Valley saved game file list as well as their saved game from the “save” file under My Documents BUT the weird thing is their family AND house exists in my second made families saved game?

Ive tried deleting the sunset valley.sims3 and re-naming the back up file and also deleting the suggested cache files. And my save file didn’t contain any “bad” files.
So my question is…..is there any way I can get my original Family back??

I considered renaming the second family back to their original name..but I somehow figure it wont fix the problem.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1860932.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1860932.page GMT
im wondering if you could help me.
i hadn't played my sims 3 game for a week or so..
and i just put it on there now..
and it just says new game, my saved game which took me so long to make amazing, [b]IS GONE [/b]
i have went into my sims 3 saves folder and there is nothing in it at all?
do u have any idea what i should do to get my sims and town back?
[u]write back asap! xoxo[/u]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1937046.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1937046.page GMT I also tried to use the backup file but none ended with .bad and this did nothing now I have only got the bakup I renamed to my original neighbourhood name and it has completley disappeared from the game! PLEASE HELP!! ]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1943557.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/1943557.page GMT http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2065445.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2065445.page GMT
[quote]From Wrath_dee:

I browsed through the entire thread & there wasn't a solution for this type, so I extended my searches & found an answer.
Perhaps the next neurotic simmer could seek "solace" with the following:-

> Open the Windows Start Menu, select "Run"
> Type in the word: 'explorer' (without the quotes)
> Hit "Enter" then a new MyDocuments would appear
> Under that page, click on "Tools" & select the "Folder Options"
> Now, select the "View" tab
> Deselect the option box that says: "Hide File Extensions for Known File Types"

Tadah!
You should now be able to see the file as xxx.sims3.backup instead of previous (Name of File: xxx.sims3 & File Type: Backup).

It's just a simple tweak to our PC configurations which I reckon it's not really related to the game itself & so it might have been overlooked.
Hope this would work for troubled games & happy SIMMING![/quote]]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2065508.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2065508.page GMT
Can anyone please help me? I have no CC.]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2159915.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2159915.page GMT
http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/161355.page
And:
http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/176431.page
And:
http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/176925.page]]> http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2159967.page http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/preList/81071/2159967.page GMT