Editing save files in RPG Maker VX Ace allows you to modify character stats, items, gold, and game variables. While the engine's .rvdata2 files are not human-readable by default, several tools and methods can help you customize your experience. 1. Locate Your Save Files
Before using any editor, you need to find where the game stores its progress.
Extension: RPG Maker VX Ace save files always end in .rvdata2.
Typical Path: Look in the game’s main directory, often inside a subfolder named SaveData.
Backup First: Always copy your original save file to a separate folder before editing to prevent corruption. 2. Recommended Save Editors
Since .rvdata2 is a binary format based on Ruby’s "Marshal" serialization, you cannot edit it with a standard text editor. Use these specialized tools instead: save editor rpg maker vx ace
Online Editors: SaveEditOnline is a popular browser-based tool. You simply drag and drop your .rvdata2 file to see a list of editable values like gold and variables.
RPG Maker Save Editor: This specialized tool supports editing saves specifically for VX Ace, VX, and MV engines.
R48: This is a more advanced, alternative editor that includes a mode specifically for editing RPG Maker XP and VX Ace game data. 3. Step-by-Step Editing Process
Open the Tool: Launch your chosen editor or visit the online tool.
Load the Save: Guide the program to your .rvdata2 file or drag it into the browser. Modify Values: Editing save files in RPG Maker VX Ace
Gold/Items: Search for keywords like "gold" or specific item IDs.
Variables/Switches: Modify internal game triggers to skip quests or unlock content.
Save and Replace: Download or save the modified file, then move it back into the game's SaveData folder. 4. Developer Options (In-Editor)
If you are the developer of the game or have the project files, you can manage saves directly within the engine: RPG Maker Save Editor Guide | PDF - Scribd
*.rvdata2 File StructureBefore diving into tools, you must understand what you are editing. RPG Maker VX Ace serializes game data using Ruby’s Marshal module. When you save your game, the engine writes several key objects into a .rvdata2 or .rxdata2 file: Part 1: Understanding the *
A save editor essentially deserializes this data, presents it in a human-readable GUI, then re-serializes it without corrupting the structure.
It's a good practice to regularly back up your project. This ensures that you can recover your work in case something goes wrong. You can manually copy your project folder or use the built-in export features to create a backup.
For advanced users: The Ruby gem SaveCore can convert .rvdata2 to JSON. You edit the JSON in any text editor (VS Code, Notepad++), then convert back.
gem install savecore
savecore decode Save01.rvdata2 save.json
# Edit save.json
savecore encode save.json Save01_edited.rvdata2
Save folder or same directory as Game.exe.Save01.rvdata2 to another folder.File → Open.The most reliable method is to use a dedicated desktop tool. These are often open-source projects found on GitHub or community forums. These tools parse the Ruby marshal data used by the engine and present it in a readable list.
How to use it:
www or just the main game directory) and look for the Save folder.Save1.rvdata2) into your editor.