The error code 516 in Baldur's Gate 3 is an issue with saving game progress. Players encounter this error when attempting to save their game progress during quick saves, manual saves, or even auto-saves. The error message typically reads, "Failed to save game."

Possible Causes

1. Insufficient Disk Space: The most common cause is a lack of available storage space on the player's hard drive. BG3 requires adequate space to save game progress, and if the storage is nearing its limit, the game might fail to save.
2. Corrupted Game Files: Damaged or corrupted game files can also lead to this error. This can result from an interrupted game update, a faulty game installation, or external software conflicts.
3. Cloud Saving Issues: Some players have linked the error to cloud saving features, especially when there's a sync discrepancy between local and cloud saves.

What to Do

1. Free Up Disk Space: Ensure that your hard drive has sufficient free space. Consider deleting unnecessary files or transferring them to external storage. The game typically saves on the C drive at this path: C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3.
2. Change Save Directory: If you're unable to clear space on the C drive but have other drives with available storage, change the save directory by moving it to: D:\Larian Studios\BG3\New Save Location Execute the following command in the command prompt as an administrator: mklink /d “C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3” “D:\Larian Studios\BG3\New Save Location”
3. Verify Game Integrity: If you're using platforms like Steam, use the "Verify Integrity of Game Files" feature. This process checks and repairs corrupted or missing game files.
4. Update the Game: Ensure that you're running the latest version of BG3. Developers often release patches to fix known issues, and updating might resolve the error.
5. Disable Cloud Saving: If you suspect that cloud saving is the culprit, consider disabling it temporarily. Once done, try saving the game locally to see if the error persists.
6. Reinstall the Game: As a last resort, consider reinstalling BG3. While this might seem drastic, a fresh installation can eliminate any corrupted files causing the error.