Quick answer: Godot 4 C# [Export] Array<Item> order changes after save/load? Some import paths re-sort - use a custom typed Array with order-preserving serializer.
Author item order: A, B, C. Save; reopen; order is A, C, B.
Add explicit Order field
Each Item has an Order int. Sort by Order on load. Preserves intent.
Or use System.Collections.List
Native C# List preserves order through serialization round-trip.
Verify per save
Order check on load. Mismatch = bug.
“Generic collection serialization may not preserve order. Explicit sort is the cure.”
If order matters in your data, an explicit Order field is the safe pattern.