Take the downloaded .dat file. If you want it in Save Slot 1, rename it to user1.dat . Drop it into the Team Cherry\Hollow Knight folder. If the file was named savegame.dat or data.sav , rename it to user1.dat .
That said, here’s a of how players legitimately get a 100% save file without downloading from shady sources: hollow knight 100 save file download
A true "100 save file" (colloquially meaning end-game) usually includes: Take the downloaded
To use a downloaded save, you must place it in the game's internal save folder and rename it to match one of the four available save slots. If the file was named savegame
– Alex got their 100% file back in 15 minutes, with zero viruses or bans.
: While primarily for mods, you can find "Achievement Savefiles" and 100% completion starts here. How to Install Save Files (PC/Mac/Linux)