how to make steam see the game files are already there?

[Kikinaak]

I have the files for trainz simulator 2012 off an old install. Its in my steam library its just not flagged as installed. I have the files, *not* a steam backup. How can I put this into my library to avoid having to redownload 7 gigs? I am on a limited bandwidth net connection and really cannot afford it.

I've tried to put the files in the steamapps folder and have steam verify game files. It says 1 file verified and continues downloading. I tried putting the files into the steam download folder and deleting the state patch files, same result.

[Auric]

I believe this should help you: https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=8379-RYIP-2998

[Kikinaak]

It does not. The game files are in the correct folder, the folder opened when I tell steam to browse local files on the game. Its just not seeing they are there and attempting to redownload all of them. I realize this is an old install and theres probably been some updaets but not eveyr single file!

Trying to have steam verify local file integrity does nothing, it claims files were verified successfully, and then the download continues. I've also tried moving the files into steams download folder for the game, but its not even seeing those. Theres gotta be a way to force steam to see those files are there and use them... how?

[Silicon Vampire]

some games, unless you have the original .acf file for the game, it will always download everything.

if you do have the file, it can be modified if needed and when Steam is restarted, it will find everything just fine.

[Kikinaak]

I do not have the acf file. The game ID is 24670. Could someone who has the game paste me their ACF? I can fix the path and try that

[Shalow]

For anyone that is still searching for the answer, try this (worked for me):
https://www.skial.com/threads/tutorial-solution-to-steam-download-reset.53122/

[Nex]

Originally posted by Shalow:

For anyone that is still searching for the answer, try this (worked for me):
https://www.skial.com/threads/tutorial-solution-to-steam-download-reset.53122/

You necro'd a 6 year old post to post instructions the OP already said did not work.