Pillars stores each save as a packaged .savegame file. Copy the complete directory before mod changes, and keep DLC/mod configuration notes with important long-running campaigns.
For this PC reference, the documented storage is Windows: %USERPROFILE%Saved GamesPillars of Eternity. The known file or folder pattern is *.savegame archives and autosave/quicksave variants. Pillars uses packaged .savegame records under Windows Saved Games. Mods and game version can affect serialized content, so preserve complete files and mod context.
Backup guidance: Close Pillars of Eternity, let the launcher finish any synchronization, then copy the complete documented save directory to a dated folder outside the live path. Preserve companion files rather than selecting only the newest-looking record. Cloud support varies by storefront; an offline Saved Games copy is the stable restore source. Launcher and cloud context matters because The active Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store installation determines which local profile and cloud copy can overwrite the save. Identify the storefront and account before restoring files.
Compatibility and recovery should stay conservative. Treat saves as version-, storefront-, account-, and mod-sensitive unless the game or a separately verified migration workflow proves otherwise. A similar filename or extension is not evidence that two releases are interchangeable. If the expected progress is not visible, If progress is missing after a restore, confirm the active Windows account, storefront/profile, cloud state, and exact directory first. Restore the untouched backup before experimenting with individual files or older autosaves. SaveEditor.com only labels a game-specific editor as available when a separate linked Tool has a verified operational runtime; this reference page by itself is not an editor claim.