Here's why:
* Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA): The DMCA makes it illegal to circumvent technological measures that protect copyrighted works. This includes modifying game saves to unlock content or gain an unfair advantage.
* Terms of Service: Most game developers have terms of service agreements that prohibit modifying game saves. Violating these agreements can lead to account bans or other penalties.
* Online Multiplayer: If you use modified save files in online multiplayer games, you are violating the game's rules and could be banned from playing.
However, it's not always illegal:
* Single-player games: Modifying save files in single-player games that you own is generally considered fair use, as long as you don't distribute the modified files.
* Backups: Making backups of your game saves is generally legal and often recommended for data preservation.
Important Note: Even if modifying a game save isn't illegal, it can still go against the game developer's intentions and potentially impact your enjoyment of the game. It's important to respect the developers' work and play the game as intended.
Always check the game's terms of service and the developer's policies before modifying a save file.