Find the game folder, not the launcher
Before downloading again, look at where the game files are. The official instructions require a main installation folder containing the game's executable .exe file. The HoYoPlay folder and the game folder may differ. Write down the path, size and modification date of the found folder; this will help you return to the same place the next time you try. The desktop shortcut does not replace the data folder. If there is only an empty directory left on the disk, a manual search will not create missing game files.
Specify the path via Find Game
On the page of the desired game in HoYoPlay, click Find Game - according to the help, this option is usually located next to the download button. Select the main game folder and confirm Select Folder or Open. If the launcher recognizes the files, the button changes to Launch or Update. Check that the button changes: selecting a folder without a result does not mean successful detection. If Update is shown, it is an installation found with a required update, rather than a requirement to download the entire client again.
When you need an official recovery tool
HoYoverse Help also offers an official Repair Tool via a link inside the article. The tool is given the game folder, and when prompted, the HoYoPlay folder; After checking, close it and restart the launcher. To download, follow the official help so as not to confuse the utility with a third-party installer. After recovery, try manual search again. We describe the route from the documentation; the operation of this utility on your PC still requires verification. Before making any changes, write down the paths you find so you don't accidentally select a different installation.
How to evaluate the result
Open the game through the found button and compare the account and server you are using with the previous ones. Local file discovery itself does not merge different profiles. If the path is not accepted, save the text of the message and indicate to support the game installation path separately from the launcher path. Do not rename several folders at the same time: after such a change, it is more difficult to understand which path HoYoPlay checked. The successful result here is the appearance of Launch/Update and the launch of the found client. Subsequent login or network error refers to the next step.
Sources and checks
Guides are automatically translated from Russian; interface labels may differ. The Russian edition is the original.