This error usually indicates that the game cannot read or has corrupted the profile.dat file, which stores your global game settings, unlocked outfits, difficulty modifiers, and overall progress.
If you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, your profile might be backed up. Go to Settings -> Saved Data and Game/App Settings -> Saved Data (PS4/PS5) -> Cloud Storage . Select Download to Console Storage and overwrite the problematic local file with an older, working save. Summary Checklist Action Step Target Platform Why It Helps Whitelist in Antivirus Stops Windows from blocking game-save permissions. Run as Administrator Grants full read/write access to the storage drive. Verify Game Files Repairs corrupted engine files causing the glitch. Clear Local Cache Xbox / PS5 Flushes temporary system conflicts. Recreate Profile Folder Replaces a broken save directory with a fresh template.
C:\Users\[YourName]\Documents\Shadow of the Tomb Raider\[LongNumber]
This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and fixing the "failed to load profile" issue, primarily for PC users, where this error is most common. 1. What Causes the "Failed to Load Profile" Error?
Right-click and select Properties . Go to the General tab. shadow of the tomb raider failed to load profile
Re-enter the numbered folder inside your Documents directory. Locate the file explicitly named . Right-click profile.dat and select Delete .
Common triggers include:
Once you've fixed the error, here are some best practices to help you avoid it happening again.
Remember: backup early, backup often, and never let a cryptic error message steal your adventure. This error usually indicates that the game cannot
Copy the entire folder and paste it in a safe place, like your Desktop. Disable Cloud Sync : Right-click the game in your Properties > toggle off Steam Cloud Epic Games
Add SOTTR.exe from your game's installation folder to the whitelist. 2. Run the Game as an Administrator
The most prevalent cause is a mismatch between the local profile version and the version stored on the Steam Cloud servers. This occurs when:
Before deleting anything, right-click on the numbered folder (or the entire Shadow of the Tomb Raider folder) and select Copy . Paste it somewhere safe, like your Desktop. This backup ensures you have a safety net and can restore your progress if needed. Select Download to Console Storage and overwrite the
If deleting the file doesn't work, you can force the game to recognize your old progress through a new profile. Start the game and dismiss the error.
The PC version is where the “failed to load profile” error is most common due to cloud saves and multiple file paths.
How to Fix the " Shadow of the Tomb Raider Failed to Load Profile" Error
