[QUOTE="GTR12"]
Simply copying folders won't work, you have to install them.
Byshop
Yes and no. Yes, the above statement is technically true but digital distribution services simplify this somewhat. If you copy the files for a game to a new computer and try to run it, it will typically fail because the install procedure actually loads DLLs, installs pre-reqs, etc. If you happen to already have the necessary pre-reqs or it's a much older game, then it might work regardless. Also, if you have a similar game already installed it may work (i.e. you have HL2 installed and you try to run L4D).
Where digital distro services like Steam come in are Steam technically does these "install" steps the first time you run a game after downloading it. If you copy your entire Steam directory and re-install Steam to the same path, the first time you try to run a game that was included in the copy Steam will scan the existing files for any gaps. If it finds any, it'll re-download just the missing/damaged portion until the game is complete and -then- it'll run the "install" since you are technically playing the game for the first time. This works with the vast majority of Steam's library, but there are a few games (most notably online games that use their own updater like Tribes Ascend) where you'll have to re-download them no matter what. Origin (for BF3) also works in a similar fashion.
Save files for any game that doesn't use cloud saving will have to be moved manually. Most games keep their data in the hidden AppData folder inside your profile folder, the My Documents folder, or the My Games folder. Occasionally, a few will keep them in the actual game folder (like Sleeping Dogs). Some games that use Games For Windows (like Fable 3 or GTA4) actually tie the save games to the unique instance of your XBL profile on that specific computer so moving those save files (and having them work at the destination) is a bit tricky. Look for instructions on how to do this -before- moving any files as the first steps have to be taken up front.
Also, Steam actually has a "backup" feature where you can take the downloaded bulk of any one or more games and save them into a portable format that can be restored to any Steam client running on the same account. However, since the copy procedure works for almost all games I find I rarely use this because it just adds extra steps.
Edit: I forgot to mention one detail. Some games (like Arkham City) have additional DRM beyond that of their digital distribution service and will have to re-activate. These games will often come with a limited number of activations.
-Byshop
Yeah I know that, and its correct, but I noted TC specifically mentioned that he was installing COD from CD's, so in that case it wouldn't work.
Also, what's with these stupid bots (above this comment) just re-iterating what I said, and thanks? its happened like 5 times now for me...
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