Red Dead Redemption 2 uses a Rockstar profile directory rather than a simple shared folder of anonymous saves. The profile identity is therefore part of the backup context. For a dependable archive, close the game and launcher, copy the complete profile directory, and label the copy with the Rockstar account and date. If you later restore manually, watch for cloud synchronization that can replace the local files with a different remote revision.
Prepare the source PC
On the source system, identify the actual Red Dead Redemption 2 save root: Windows: %USERPROFILE%DocumentsRockstar GamesRed Dead Redemption 2Profiles<user-id> | Linux / Steam Play: Steam Play: <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/1174180/pfx/. The expected file/folder pattern is SRDR3* Story Mode save records. Close the game, let the active launcher finish writing and synchronizing, then make a complete offline copy rather than transferring a file that may still be open.
Preserve storefront and profile identity
Documented storefronts: Rockstar Games Launcher, Steam, Epic Games Launcher. Steam/Epic launches still involve Rockstar account/profile services. Back up the Rockstar profile corresponding to the account used by the game. A transfer between two PCs is simplest when both systems use the same storefront/account/profile context. If the destination uses a different store or container, treat that as a migration problem rather than an ordinary restore.
Move the complete save boundary
Copy the entire Red Dead Redemption 2 profile folder with the game and launcher closed. Put the copied data on the destination only after confirming the destination save path. If the game creates a new empty save first, keep that new folder as another backup so you can compare structures and revert.
Handle cloud sync deliberately
Rockstar launcher synchronization can affect local Story Mode files. Let synchronization settle before capturing or restoring a backup. Decide whether the local transferred copy or cloud copy should be authoritative before launching the game. If possible, preserve both. After the transferred save loads correctly, make a fresh in-game save and let the launcher synchronize normally.
Check compatibility before blaming the transfer
Story Mode progress is stored in the Rockstar profile directory. The profile contains save-slot records and related profile files; the directory is a safer backup unit than one guessed filename. Compatibility note: Do not assume files from a different Rockstar profile are portable merely because the game recognizes the filename pattern. If the destination does not see the transferred progress, If restored saves disappear, compare the active Rockstar account/profile and cloud timestamps. Preserve both the manual backup and current synchronized copy until recovery is complete. Verify game edition/version, store, profile IDs, redirected folders, and mod/DLC dependencies before editing the save itself.
Verification context: Windows and Steam Play save locations were reviewed against current PCGamingWiki coverage for Red Dead Redemption 2. The Game Hub makes no game-specific editing claim.