To move files without encountering this error (or minimizing it), follow these steps: Ren'Py saves are typically in: Windows: %APPDATA%/RenPy/ macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/RenPy/ Linux: ~/.renpy/
If you’ve ever moved a Ren'Py game from your desktop to a laptop, switched from Windows to Linux, or tried to transfer save files between a PC and an Android device, you might have encountered a frustrating message:
The "Ren'Py save created on a different device" warning is a built-in handshake between the game and your hardware. As long as the game version is the same, you can usually to load your game. For a seamless transition, always move the entire save folder, including the persistent file, rather than just individual slots. renpy this save was created on a different device link
Thankfully, moving your progress across devices is not only possible but relatively simple. This guide explains why the message appears and provides clear, step-by-step methods to transfer your saves safely.
Users should see a prompt asking to trust the save file rather than a blank screen or a crash. Summary of Solutions Choose "Yes/Trust" when prompted by Ren'Py. PC to Android/Phone Manual signing_keys.txt replacement on the mobile device. Developer Issue Update screens.rpy to support gui.UNKNOWN_TOKEN prompts. To move files without encountering this error (or
Ren’Py uses Python’s pickle module to serialize game data. When you save your progress, the engine captures the exact state of variables, images, and script execution points.
However, players frequently encounter a frustrating barrier when transferring files: the game blocks them, stating that the save file was created on a different device. Thankfully, moving your progress across devices is not
When you move a save file from your PC to an Android phone, or download a 100% completion save from an online forum, Ren'Py cross-references the file's encryption keys against your local machine token. If they do not match, the system triggers two warnings:
The “different device” error is a deliberate anti-cheat and compatibility lock in Ren’Py. While it protects save integrity, it frustrates players who legitimately transfer saves. The only reliable solutions are:
You’re using an older Ren’Py version. You have two options:
In most Ren'Py games, this isn't just a notification—it’s often a clickable link or a status warning. Here is everything you need to know about why this happens, how to sync your saves properly, and what to do if things go wrong. Why Does This Message Appear?