Where are Android game files stored
When you install and run games on your Android device, a variety of app data and media files get saved across different storage locations. Here is a detailed breakdown of the key folders used:
1. Internal Storage (/data/data)
The /data/data folder in internal storage contains private app data that only that particular Android app can access. For games, some typical files stored here include:
- Saved games, progression status, player profiles
- Configuration files, app settings
- Temporary cached data to optimize load times
- Analytics data, crash logs
These files are critical for smooth functioning of games. Modifying or deleting certain files could cause severe issues like app crashes, lost progression or corrupted save games.
So it is advised not to change anything in /data/data/[game package name] unless you really know what you are doing. With root access, the full folder is visible and editable for power users.
Use Cases
Some common use cases for accessing a game‘s internal storage include:
- Modding game functionality, assets by changing configuration files
- Hacking, cheating via memory editors for offline games
- Troubleshooting crashing issues due to corrupted data
- Retrieving lost game progress or profiles after reinstall
2. External Storage (/sdcard/Android/data)
This public storage space holds app files like photos, downloads, music and sometimes large game assets. The external storage folders for games typically contains:
- Visual assets – Graphics, textures, 3D models
- Audio assets – Sound effects, background music
- Video assets – Cutscenes, trailers
- Expansion files – Extra content downloaded after install
By keeping these large media files separate, game updates and integrity checks can be faster. Assets downloaded externally are also accessible to other apps for editing or sharing.
Vs OBB Folder
Compared to the OBB folder, assets in external storage tend to be:
- Updated more frequently via patches
- Less critical for core game functionality
- Smaller in size (up to 2GB)
So developers choose external storage when regular app updates to these files are needed.
3. OBB Folder (/sdcard/Android/obb)
The Opaque Binary Blob (OBB) folder in Android stores large application assets that exceed the size limits of internal storage and don‘t need frequent patching. These are typically very large media files like:
- HD graphics textures
- Surround sound audio
- 4K video
By caching such stable assets separately, less data needs to be rechecked during app updates resulting in smaller patch sizes and faster verification. It also drastically reduces clutter in internal app storage.
Use Cases
The OBB folder is useful for:
- Clearing cached data to free up storage space
- Recovering from crashing issues caused by corrupted files
- Modifying assets without redownloading large packages
Accessing Game Folders via File Manager
To view and manage game files stored across these locations on your Android device, a file manager app is needed.
The Files app by Google included in Android 10+ provides basic folder browsing and file operations. More advanced capabilities can be found in third-party apps like:
- ES File Explorer – Root explorer, FTP, cloud storage support
- Solid Explorer – Dual panel view, archive management, offline access
For new users, here are some tips when first accessing Android file systems:
- Navigate carefully folder by folder instead of search
- Double check folder names while deleting or moving files
- Learn the difference between internal, external and OBB storage
- Back up important game data before modifying
Finding Package Name to Locate Game Files
To isolate the files for a particular game, you need to know its unique Android package name identifier.
On your phone, this can be found by:
- Going to Settings > Apps & notifications > Selecting the game
- Checking App info or App details to see package name
Alternatively, connecting your phone to a PC and using Android Debug Bridge (ADB) makes it easy to quickly fetch the package name for any installed game.
Caution When Modifying Game Files
While accessing game data folders can be useful for fixing issues or modding fun, there are also considerable downsides if things go wrong:
- Accidental file deletion or corruption can trigger crashes
- Modifying certain files incorrectly can cause save game loss
- Reinstall fails to restore corrupted internal app data
So for novice users, it is strongly advised to avoid editing any critical game files without understanding consequences. Some tips:
- Thoroughly research modification guides before applying
- Take backups of important game data beforehand
- Start with media files in OBB or external storage first
Over time with experience, you can safely enjoy deeper customization and control over your installed Android games.
