FAQ: How do I restore a backup file ?

Question
I would like to revert to an earlier savegame. Is that possible ?

Answer
Sometimes it's not possible to start a savegame anymore or you did something, saved and later regret that you did. There are many more reasons why you want to restore a backup file and luckily Sims 3 automatically creates ONE backup save that can be found in your saves folder and has the the extension .backup. Instructions on how to revert to that savegame can be found here: Game Help:Restoring Backup Saves.

It's best to keep more backups yourself. Copy the folder regularly to an external drive, save in cycles (5-10 different saves) or use Twallan's Saver Mod that automatically asks if you want to save regularly (even in build mode). Also make sure to save under a different name BEFORE you go on vacation and BEFORE your vacation is over. Vacations are known to screw up your game and this way the worst that can happen is, that you loose a vacation.

Trying to save a corrupt game
Beside the method that is described in the wiki link above, you can also try Twallan's ErrorTrap Mod. The mod has many means to recover a savegame. It was originally written to recover games where a scripting mod had been removed wrongly but now it can do so much more.

If you are able to start a game but it's simply unplayable, use Twallan's Porter Mod to move your family and all inactive Sims you want to keep and move the to a new town. Unlike simply moving your family to a new town by the means EA provides, this will retain all relationships the Sims have.

Further Reading

• FAQ: What files should I backup ? 
• Game Help:Restoring Backup Saves