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How to Resolve The Sims 4 Game Failed to Save Error on PC

2023/12/07
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Identify common error codes: 0, 123, 401, etc.
  • Temporarily disable antivirus to test if it’s blocking saves.
  • Repair and verify game files via Origin or Steam.

Resolving Saving Issues in The Sims 4: A Comprehensive Guide

Experiencing the frustrating ‘The game failed to save’ error while playing The Sims 4 on your Windows PC? This guide aims to help you understand and resolve the problem effectively.

How to Fix The Sims 4 Game Failed to Save Error

To successfully address the error messages like The game failed to save along with various error codes such as 0, 123, 401, and more, follow these step-by-step methods:

Step 1: Temporarily Disable Your Antivirus

Antivirus software might be preventing The Sims 4 from saving. Temporarily disabling it could help identify the issue.

Pro Tip: Whitelist The Sims 4 within your antivirus settings to prevent future disruptions.

  • Launch the Windows Security app.
  • Click on Virus & threat protection, then select Manage settings.
  • Under Exclusions, click on Add or remove exclusions.
  • Choose Add an exclusion and follow it up by selecting File to include The Sims 4 and its launcher (Origin/Steam).
  • Restart The Sims 4 to test if the issue persists.

Step 2: Remove or Relocate Your Mods

Corrupted mods can create saving problems in The Sims 4. It’s advisable to remove or relocate mods to troubleshoot the error.

  • Open File Explorer using Win + E.
  • Navigate to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Mods.
  • Select all files in the Mods folder and press Delete.
  • If you prefer to keep them, cut and paste to a different folder.
  • Launch the game and see if the error has been resolved.

Step 3: Verify and Repair Game Files

Corrupted or missing game files may be responsible for saving errors. Repairing these files can potentially solve the issue.

For Origin:

  • Open your Origin client and locate The Sims 4 in your Game Library.
  • Right-click and select Repair.
  • Once completed, reopen the game and check for improvements.

For Steam:

  • Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
  • Right-click on The Sims 4 and choose Properties.
  • Within the Installed Files tab, click on Verify the integrity of game files.
  • Reopen the game to confirm if the issue has been resolved.

Step 4: Clear Cache Files

Clearing cache files for Origin and The Sims 4 can also remedy save errors. Follow these steps:

  • Close the Origin client and open Run with Win + R.
  • Type %ProgramData%/Origin and delete contents from LocalContent.
  • Repeat for the folders in %AppData% and %LocalAppData%.
  • Navigate to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 and delete localthumbcache.package.
  • Restart Origin and The Sims 4 to verify the change.

Step 5: Delete Options.ini File

If your options.ini file is corrupted, it may interfere with saving. Deleting it can restore default settings and fix errors.

  • Open File Explorer using Win + E and go to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4.
  • Locate and delete (or move) the options.ini file.
  • Restart The Sims 4 and check if the issue is resolved.

Step 6: Enable Online Access and Use Save As Feature

Activating Online Access and utilizing Save As may help mitigate saving issues. Here’s how:

  • Launch The Sims 4 and open Game Options.
  • Go to the Other tab and enable Online Access.
  • Click Apply Changes to save your new settings.
  • Use the Save as feature in-game to attempt a successful save.

Pro Tip: Regularly update your game and mods for optimal performance.

Additional Tips

  • Always back up your saved games.
  • Consider reinstalling The Sims 4 if errors persist.
  • Monitor for mod updates to avoid compatibility issues.

Summary

The Sims 4 save errors can be frustrating, but they can often be resolved by temporarily disabling antivirus, managing mods, repairing game files, or clearing cache. Implementing structured troubleshooting steps is key to maintaining a smooth gaming experience.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to effectively resolve the ‘game failed to save’ error in The Sims 4. Always ensure your game and mods are up to date, and consider engaging with the player community for ongoing support.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How do you force save Sims 4?

Force-saving can be done by pressing Alt + F4 and selecting Save and Exit, or using Ctrl + Shift + C to open the command box and typing “quit”, then saving when prompted.

Why does my Sims download keep failing?

If your downloads are failing, ensure your internet connection is stable. You may also reset the installation folder via the Origin client under Application Settings.

PC Repair