Sims 4 Error Code 22: Troubleshooting and Fixes for Your Corrupted Save

Experiencing the dreaded Error Code 22 in The Sims 4 can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it seems to wipe away hours of gameplay. This error, often appearing after game or system updates, typically indicates a problem with saving your game, and can lead to corrupted save files, loss of households, and a completely unplayable save. If you’re facing this issue, don’t panic! As a Sims 4 expert at keyfobprog.com, I’m here to guide you through understanding and resolving Error Code 22, helping you get back to your Sims’ lives as quickly as possible.

Understanding Sims 4 Error Code 22 and Its Causes

Error Code 22 in The Sims 4 is primarily a save game error. It means the game is unable to save your current progress, and often signals a deeper issue within your save file or game installation. Several factors can trigger this error, and pinpointing the exact cause is the first step to fixing it. Common culprits include:

• Game Updates: Paradoxically, game updates, designed to improve the game, can sometimes introduce conflicts or bugs that corrupt existing save files, leading to Error Code 22.
• Mod Conflicts: Mods are a fantastic way to enhance Sims 4, but they can be a frequent source of errors. Outdated or conflicting mods, especially after a game update, are a very common cause of save game issues and Error Code 22.
• System Updates: Operating system updates, while essential for your computer’s overall health, can occasionally create incompatibilities with game files or settings, triggering errors like Error Code 22.
• Interrupted Save Process: Forcefully shutting down your computer or the game during a save process can corrupt the save file, increasing the likelihood of encountering this error.
• Game File Corruption: Sometimes, game files themselves can become corrupted due to various reasons, leading to save game errors and other malfunctions.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide for Error Code 22

If you’re encountering Error Code 22, follow these troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the issue:

1. Restart Your Game and Load a Previous Save: The error message itself suggests exiting to the Main Menu and reloading. While this might seem simplistic, it’s the first step. Try loading a previous save game if available. Sometimes, the latest save might be corrupted, but an earlier one might be intact.

2. Check and Update Your Mods: Mods are often the primary suspect after updates.

   • Disable Mods: Completely exit The Sims 4 and move your entire “Mods” folder to your desktop (or another temporary location). This will ensure no mods are interfering with the game.
   • Test the Game: Launch Sims 4 and try to load a save or start a new game and save it. If Error Code 22 is gone, a mod is likely the culprit.
   • Identify the Problematic Mod: If the game works without mods, reintroduce your mods in small batches. After adding each batch, test the game. This process will help you pinpoint the mod(s) causing the conflict. Check for updates for your mods or remove the incompatible ones.

3. Perform a Clean Boot: A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, which can help rule out software conflicts.

   • System Configuration: Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
   • Selective Startup: In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab.
   • Hide Microsoft Services: Check “Hide all Microsoft services” and then click “Disable all”.
   • Startup Tab: Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager”.
   • Disable Startup Items: In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
   • Apply and Restart: Go back to the System Configuration window, click “Apply”, and then “OK”. Restart your computer.
   • Test Sims 4: After the clean boot, launch Sims 4 and check if Error Code 22 persists. Remember to re-enable essential services and startup programs after troubleshooting.

4. Repair Game Files in EA app: The EA app (formerly Origin) has a built-in repair function that can fix corrupted game files.

   • Open EA app: Launch the EA app.
   • Go to Library: Navigate to your Game Library.
   • Find Sims 4: Right-click on The Sims 4 game tile.
   • Repair: Select the “Repair” option. The EA app will verify and repair game files, which can take some time.

5. Clear EA app Cache: Corrupted cache files in the EA app can sometimes cause game issues. Clearing the cache can resolve these problems.

   • Close EA app: Ensure the EA app is completely closed.
   • Clear Cache: Press Win + R, type %LocalAppData%, and press Enter. Find the “EA Desktop” or “Electronic Arts” folder and delete the “Cache” folder inside (if it exists). Restart the EA app and then the game.

6. Consider Save File Recovery (If Backed Up): If you have a backup of your Sims 4 save files, you can try restoring a previous, uncorrupted save. Save files are typically located in DocumentsElectronic ArtsThe Sims 4saves.

7. Reinstall The Sims 4 (Last Resort): If none of the above steps work, reinstalling The Sims 4 is a more drastic measure but can resolve deeply rooted game file corruption issues. Uninstall the game through the EA app, and then reinstall it.

Preventing Future Error Code 22 Issues

While troubleshooting is essential, preventing Error Code 22 in the future is even better. Here are some best practices:

• Manage Mods Carefully: Keep your mods updated, especially after game patches. Use a mod manager to help organize and identify conflicts. Test new mods individually before adding them to your game.
• Properly Close the Game: Always exit Sims 4 through the game menu and allow it to save and close properly. Avoid force-closing the game or shutting down your computer during the save process.
• Regularly Backup Save Files: Periodically back up your Sims 4 “saves” folder to an external drive or cloud storage. This ensures you have a recent save to restore if corruption occurs.
• Keep Your System and Game Updated: While updates can sometimes cause issues, keeping your system drivers, operating system, and the game itself updated is generally crucial for stability and security in the long run.

Conclusion

Encountering Sims 4 Error Code 22 can be disheartening, but by following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the cause and get your Sims 4 game running smoothly again. Remember to approach troubleshooting systematically, starting with the most common causes like mods and game updates. By implementing preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of this error occurring in the future and ensure countless hours of uninterrupted Sims 4 fun. If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to EA Support for further assistance. Happy Simming!