Troubleshooting: Games Disappearing After Updates

Why Do Games Disappear After Steam Updates?

This is a known limitation of SteamTools. When Steam updates, it may reset or update library files, causing games added through SteamTools to disappear. This happens because SteamTools modifies Steam's library structure, and Steam updates can overwrite these modifications.

What Happens During Steam Updates

• Steam client updates may reset library files
• Manifest files may be overwritten or removed
• Lua scripts may be cleared
• Library structure may be reset to default

How to Re-Add Disappeared Games

Step 1: Keep Backups

Always keep backups of your manifest files and Lua scripts. Store them in a safe location so you can quickly re-add games after Steam updates.

Step 2: Re-Add Using SteamTools

1. Open SteamTools
2. Enter the game's AppID (you should have this saved)
3. Load the manifest file from your backup
4. Add the Lua script from your backup
5. Apply the changes
6. Restart Steam client

Step 3: Regenerate Files if Needed

If you don't have backups, you can regenerate the files:

• Use steamtools.site to generate new manifest files
• Use Steam-Tools-Game-Finder to regenerate both manifest and Lua files

Prevention Tips

• Backup Files: Always keep backups of manifest files and Lua scripts
• Document AppIDs: Keep a list of AppIDs for games you frequently add
• Monitor Updates: Be aware when Steam updates occur
• Quick Re-Add: Use Steam-Tools-Game-Finder for quick regeneration

Best Practices

1. Create a dedicated folder for backups
2. Name files clearly (e.g., "CSGO_730_manifest.txt")
3. Keep a spreadsheet or document with AppIDs
4. Test re-adding process before you need it

Conclusion

Games disappearing after Steam updates is a known limitation of SteamTools. By keeping backups of your manifest files and Lua scripts, and documenting AppIDs, you can quickly re-add games when needed. Consider this part of the normal workflow when using SteamTools.