Fix Failed to Save Game Error Code 516 in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3)

Error Code 516 in Baldur’s Gate 3 (BG3) has been a frustrating roadblock for many players. Whether you’re deep in an intense battle or making a crucial in-game decision, encountering this error can disrupt your experience and even cause data loss. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Error Code 516, including what it is, why it happens, and, most importantly, how to fix it. We’ll also go over some preventive measures to ensure you don’t run into this issue again. By the end, you’ll have all the tools needed to troubleshoot and resolve this error like a pro.

What Is Error Code 516 in BG3?

Error Code 516 is an issue that occurs when Baldur’s Gate 3 fails to save progress properly. Players experiencing this error often find that their game either fails to save manually or auto-saves don’t work. In some cases, attempting to save results in an error message, leaving players unable to preserve their progress.

How Does Error Code 516 Affect Gameplay?

This error can severely impact your gaming experience in several ways:

• Loss of Progress: If the game fails to save, you might lose hours of gameplay.
• Game Instability: The inability to save can cause unexpected crashes or glitches.
• Corrupted Saves: Some players have reported corrupted save files, making it impossible to continue their game.

The good news? There are clear reasons why this happens and reliable ways to fix it. Let’s take a look at the common causes.

Common Causes of Error Code 516

Understanding the root causes of this error is the first step in resolving it. Here are the most common reasons why BG3 may display Error Code 516:

a. Trader Mode Glitch

One of the most reported causes of this error is a glitch when using Trader Mode instead of Barter Mode while interacting with merchants. If your character is in Trader Mode while trying to save, the game might not process the save request correctly. The Barter Mode switch is typically located at the top-right corner of the trade window, next to the gold balance.

b. Insufficient Disk Space

BG3 requires a significant amount of storage space for saving files, especially if you have multiple save slots. If your hard drive or SSD is running low on space, the game may not be able to save properly. Larian Studios recommends maintaining at least 30GB of free space to prevent saving issues. Additionally, the game’s save files can accumulate over time, so it’s essential to periodically clear old saves to free up space.

c. Corrupted Game Files

Over time, game files can become corrupted due to incomplete updates, software conflicts, or system crashes. Corrupted files can interfere with the game’s ability to process and store save data correctly. Common causes include power outages during updates and hard drive errors.

d. Conflicting Software

Sometimes, other programs running in the background can interfere with BG3. Close any unnecessary applications before running the game. Security software, screen recorders, or system optimization tools may affect the game’s ability to save properly.

Now that we’ve identified the causes, let’s dive into the solutions.

How to Fix Error Code 516 in BG3

a. Switching Trader Mode to Barter

If you suspect Trader Mode is causing the issue, here’s what you need to do:

1. Open a trade window with any in-game merchant.
2. Locate the Trader/Barter Mode switch at the top-right corner of the trade window, next to the gold balance.
3. Switch from Trader Mode to Barter Mode.
4. Exit the trade window and attempt to save the game.
5. Try a different merchant if the issue persists, as some traders might still be bugged.

b. Freeing Up Disk Space

Make sure your storage has enough space for game saves by following these steps:

1. Check Available Storage: On Windows, go to Settings > System > Storage to see how much space you have left.
2. Delete Unnecessary Files: Remove old save files, unused applications, or large downloads.
3. Move BG3 to Another Drive: If your primary drive is nearly full, consider moving the game to another drive with more space.
4. Maintain at least 30GB of free space, as recommended by Larian Studios.

c. Verifying Integrity of Game Files

Corrupt files can cause saving issues, so verifying the game’s integrity can help:

1. Open Steam and go to your Library.
2. Right-click on Baldur’s Gate 3 and select ‘Properties.’
3. Go to the ‘Local Files’ tab and click ‘Verify Integrity of Game Files.’
4. Wait for the process to complete and relaunch the game.

d. Restarting Your PC

Before reinstalling the game, try restarting your computer. This simple step can clear temporary conflicts and refresh system resources, potentially resolving the error.

e. Checking for Conflicting Software

Some background applications may interfere with BG3’s ability to save. Try these steps:

1. Disable unnecessary programs: Close security software, game boosters, and screen recording apps before launching BG3.
2. Run BG3 as an Administrator: Right-click the game executable, select Run as Administrator, and check if the issue persists.

f. Updating Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can sometimes interfere with game performance and saving functions.

1. For NVIDIA Users: Open GeForce Experience > Drivers > Check for updates.
2. For AMD Users: Open AMD Radeon Software > Updates > Check for updates.
3. For Intel Users: Open Intel Driver & Support Assistant > Check for updates.
4. Restart your PC after updating drivers.

g. Reinstalling Baldur’s Gate 3

If all else fails, reinstalling the game can be a last-resort solution:

1. Backup your saved files before uninstalling. Navigate to:
   • Windows: C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3\PlayerProfiles\Public\Savegames
   • Steam Cloud users should ensure cloud saves are enabled before uninstalling.
2. Uninstall BG3 from Steam.
3. Restart your PC.
4. Reinstall the game and check if the error persists.

Preventive Measures

To avoid encountering Error Code 516 in the future, follow these preventive steps:

a. Regularly Update the Game

Larian Studios frequently releases patches and updates that fix known issues. Keep your game updated by:

• Enabling automatic updates in Steam.
• Regularly checking Larian Studios’ official forums for patch notes.

b. Monitor Disk Space

Since insufficient storage can cause saving issues, it’s important to:

• Maintain at least 30GB of free space to prevent errors.
• Use external drives or cloud storage for backing up saves.

c. Engage with the Community

The BG3 player community is a great resource for troubleshooting:

• Join Reddit forums and Steam discussions for player-shared solutions.
• Check the Larian Studios Support Page for official fixes.

Conclusion

Error Code 516 in Baldur’s Gate 3 can be frustrating, but with the right steps, it’s completely fixable. Whether it’s a simple mode switch, clearing up disk space, or verifying game files, these solutions will get you back to playing in no time. More importantly, by following preventive measures, you can ensure a smoother, error-free gaming experience in the future.