The huge popularity of Elden Ring shows little sign of slowing down just yet, despite it being monstrously difficult. However, PC gamers have been confronted by another problematic issue - the Elden Ring Steam Cloud conflict. While it may sound like a boss fight against an opponent made of vapour, it isn't. But it is a dastardly opponent that could cost you a lot of progress if you aren't careful.
Read on, as we explain what this issue is, and what steps you can take to avoid falling into its trap. We can't do anything about the pizza delivery though. That's all on you.
How To Fix The Save Files Conflict on Elden Ring
If you encounter the Steam Cloud error, you'll know immediately, thanks to the error message which will greet you as you launch the game. Should this happen, here's what to do.
You'll see two different save files, one will be the Cloud file, the other will be your local save. Check the time and date of each save. It's important to check this carefully because you will need to select one to overwrite the other and resynchronize the data.
If you want to choose the Cloud save, then click where it says "Download to this machine" next to the 'Cloud Files'. And if you'd rather retain your local save, then select "Upload to the Steam Cloud" next to "Local Files'.
Most players will probably want to choose whichever file has the most recent timestamp, as this will generally indicate it is the file where you will have progressed the furthest.
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It's also worth noting that the developers recommend that you back up your local save data elsewhere. This is just in case you manage to accidentally overwrite your local data with old data from the cloud.
What Is The Elden Ring Steam Cloud Conflict?
As you may have figured out by now, the Steam Cloud conflict arises when there is a mismatch between the data you have saved on the Cloud and the data you have saved locally. As we highlighted earlier, you'll know if this has affected you because when you try to launch the game, you'll receive an error message. It says something along the lines of "Your local Main files conflict with the ones in the Steam Cloud".
The developers have remained coy about why this is happening, only saying that this happens "under certain conditions". So it's difficult to pinpoint anything you can do to avoid this error in the first place. Nor do we know what the reasons are for it occurring.
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But the good news is that we do know how to resolve it, should the error affect you. Simply follow the steps we outlined above. Your game files will be synchronized, and you can get back to business.