The “Failed to load save data” error in Elden Ring can be a frustrating roadblock for players eager to continue their journey through the Lands Between. This issue, which indicates corrupted save data, can occur on various platforms including PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Fortunately, there are several methods you can try to resolve this problem and recover your progress.
Let’s explore the most effective solutions to fix the Elden Ring corrupted save data error:
Reload the Save Game Multiple Times
Step 1: When you encounter the “Failed to load save data” error message, press the OK button to attempt reloading the save.
Step 2: Repeat this process several times. Sometimes, the error is caused by a temporary glitch that can be resolved through persistence.
This simple method often works for both PC and console players. If the error persists after multiple attempts, move on to the next solution.
Exit and Relaunch the Game
Closing Elden Ring completely and relaunching it can clear temporary data that might be causing the save error.
For Xbox consoles:
Step 1: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu.
Step 2: Highlight Elden Ring and press the Options button.
Step 3: Select “Quit” to close the game entirely.
Step 4: Relaunch Elden Ring from your main menu and attempt to load your save.
For PlayStation 4:
Step 1: While on the Elden Ring screen, press and hold the PlayStation button to open the quick menu.
Step 2: Choose “Close application” and confirm by selecting OK.
Step 3: Restart Elden Ring from your main menu.
For PlayStation 5:
Step 1: Press the PlayStation button to open the quick menu.
Step 2: Select “Switcher” to view open applications.
Step 3: Press the Options button on the Elden Ring tile.
Step 4: Choose “Close Game” to exit completely.
Step 5: Relaunch Elden Ring and try loading your save again.
Remove the Game from Quick Resume (Xbox Series X/S)
The Quick Resume feature on Xbox Series X/S consoles can sometimes interfere with game saves. Removing Elden Ring from Quick Resume might resolve the corrupted save data error.
Step 1: Press the Xbox button to open the guide menu.
Step 2: Navigate to “My games & apps” and select “Quick Resume”.
Step 3: Highlight Elden Ring and press the Options button.
Step 4: Choose “Remove from Quick Resume”.
Step 5: Restart Elden Ring and check if the error is resolved.
Verify Game File Integrity (PC)
For PC players using Steam, verifying the integrity of game files can fix issues caused by corrupted or missing game data.
Step 1: Open the Steam client and go to your Library.
Step 2: Right-click on Elden Ring and select “Properties”.
Step 3: Navigate to the “Local Files” tab.
Step 4: Click on “Verify integrity of game files”.
Step 5: Wait for the process to complete, then restart Elden Ring.
This process will check for any corrupted or missing files and replace them if necessary, potentially resolving the save data error.
Perform a Power Cycle on Your Console
A full power cycle can clear system cache and resolve various gaming issues, including save data errors.
For Xbox consoles:
Step 1: Ensure your Xbox is fully powered on.
Step 2: Press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds until the console shuts off.
Step 3: Unplug the console from the power source and wait for at least one minute.
Step 4: Plug the console back in and restart it.
Step 5: Launch Elden Ring and check if the save data error is resolved.
The process is similar for PlayStation consoles. This method helps clear temporary data that might be causing conflicts with your save files.
Delete and Restore Save Data
If the above methods don’t work, you may need to delete your corrupted save data and start fresh or restore from a backup.
For PC:
Step 1: Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 2: Type %appdata% and press Enter.
Step 3: Navigate to the Elden Ring folder.
Step 4: Locate and delete the file ending with .sl2.
Step 5: Restart Elden Ring to create a new save file.
For Xbox:
Step 1: Go to “My games & apps” > “See all”.
Step 2: Highlight Elden Ring, press the Options button, and select “Manage game & add-ons”.
Step 3: Navigate to “Saved data” and choose “Delete”.
Step 4: Restart Elden Ring to create a new save file.
For PlayStation 4:
Step 1: Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management.
Step 2: Select “Saved Data in System Storage” > “Delete”.
Step 3: Choose Elden Ring and delete the save data.
Step 4: Repeat for online storage if applicable.
For PlayStation 5:
Step 1: Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
Step 2: Select “Saved Data (PS5)” > “Console Storage”.
Step 3: Find Elden Ring and delete the save data.
Step 4: Repeat for cloud storage if necessary.
Remember to back up your save data before deleting if possible, especially if you’ve made significant progress in the game.
If none of these methods resolve the “Failed to load save data” error in Elden Ring, it may be time to reach out to the game’s support team. Visit the official Bandai Namco Entertainment support page to submit a query about your specific issue. The support team can provide additional guidance or potential fixes tailored to your situation.
With these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to overcome the corrupted save data error and return to your adventure in the Lands Between. Remember to regularly back up your save files to prevent future data loss and enjoy your journey through the challenging world of Elden Ring.