Hi MP-3D,
If you have X-Particles, choose what fits your current task best.
X-Particles is, without a doubt, a great package. I have had it for many years, but in 2024, I didn't renew the maintenance, as pretty much no questions arrived here about it anymore. So, I'm sadly not up-to-date with it.
Enjoy

Hi Gianni,

Yes, I understand, when you need it –– even 24 hours might feel endless.

I have been in your shoes, and since I try to save often, have increments, and autosave on, while using different drives.
Anyway, that is not helping right now, I know.

When I wrote to look into that specific folder, I meant to look for the c4d file that might have been created at one point perhaps.

Have you tried to copy the file and merge it into a new scene or connect via X-Ref? Not that I have high hopes, but just in case.

Fingers crossed.