Back up Steam games to a CD or DVD.

[DeadPoolX]

I've recently learned that you can fully back up any game you've downloaded through Steam to a CD or DVD.

The catch is that this back up only prevents you from having to download the game again. Backing up a game DOES NOT mean you can play the game without Steam.

Here's an example: Say I get a new computer and because none of my Steam games are on that new hard drive, I have to download them all over again. Batman: Arkham Asylum can take about eight hours to fully download. If I back that game up, I won't have to download it. I can simply let Steam recognize it and reinstall it from the disc.

The entire process is explained in detail (with pictures) on Info Barrel. If you have any large games on your Steam account (like I do), this might be worth your while.

[MusicallyInspired]

Yeah, that's been a Steam option since the beginning. Personally, I find it's easier to just copy the whole "steamapps" folder to a secondary or removable/USB hard drive and then back again after a format. It's a lot faster and works just as well.

[DeadPoolX]

I guess I'm behind the times.

Your idea is better than using a CD or DVD. I'll probably do that instead.

[MusicallyInspired]

Not only that, I'm pretty sure I mentioned it already on these forums....maybe that was the ScummVM forums...