How To Fix Sims 4 Game Failed to Load Error Code 122

So, you’re all set to play The Sims 4. You’ve lined up snacks, turned on your favorite playlist, clicked “Play” — and then BOOM! An annoying red notification pops up: “Game failed to load. Error Code: 122”. Ugh, right? Don’t panic. This guide will help you squash that pesky bug and get back to controlling your virtual family in no time.

TL;DR

Error Code 122 in The Sims 4 usually shows up when you move Sims between worlds or use broken mods. It often means there’s a conflict in your save files. To fix it, you might need to remove mods, repair the game, or restore older saves. Keep reading for a fun, easy guide with step-by-step instructions!

What Is Error Code 122?

This error means the game ran into something it couldn’t handle. Usually, the problem pops up because of a save file issue — like moving Sims to a new household or into a broken lot. The game basically says, “Hey, I don’t know what to do with this!”

You’ll often see this if:

• You’ve moved Sims to another household recently
• You’re using mods and custom content (CC)
• Your save file got corrupted
• An update messed things up

Step-by-Step Fixes

Let’s break down what you can do to banish Error Code 122 from your life. Try these steps in order for the best chances of success.

1. Restart Your Game

It sounds silly, but sometimes, the problem is just a hiccup. Close the game completely and launch it again. No joke — this alone works surprisingly often.

2. Remove Recent Mods and Custom Content

Mods and CC can be super fun. But they also break things fast when the game updates.

Here’s how to test them:

1. Go to your Sims 4 folder located in Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4.
2. Find the Mods folder and move it to your desktop.
3. Launch the game — if it works now, your mods or CC were the issue.
4. Add your mods back in small chunks until you find the bad one.

Tip: Always download mods from trusted sources. And keep them updated!

3. Repair The Sims 4 Using EA App or Origin

Sometimes the game files themselves get wonky. Luckily, the EA App (or Origin) has a built-in fixer.

Here’s what to do:

1. Open the EA App or Origin.
2. Right-click The Sims 4 in your game library.
3. Select Repair.
4. Wait for it to finish (go grab a snack!).
5. Then launch the game and see if the error is gone.

4. Load an Older Save

Good news: The Sims 4 stores auto-backups of your save files!

Here’s how to use them:

1. Go to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Saves.
2. You’ll see files like Slot_00000001.save and Slot_00000001.save.ver0.
3. “.save” is your current game; the “.ver#” files are older versions.
4. Rename the one that ends in .ver0 or .ver1 as Slot_00000001.save (back up the original first!).
5. Launch the game and see if it loads.

5. Delete the Cache Files

Cache files help the game run smoothly, but sometimes they get confused and cranky. Let’s delete them.

Steps:

1. Navigate to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4.
2. Delete these files:

• localthumbcache.package
• Anything ending in .tmp, .cache, or related to crashes.

Don’t worry — the game will recreate them when it starts again.

6. Check for Household Problems

If the error shows up with a specific family or lot, that household might be causing trouble.

Try moving the household to a new empty lot using the Manage Worlds screen. Or try creating a brand new Sim and seeing if the game loads. If it does, the issue is likely something tied to that old household’s data.

7. Update Your Game

Running an older version of Sims 4 while using newer content = disaster.

So be sure your game is updated:

1. Open EA App or Origin.
2. Go to The Sims 4 and check for updates.
3. Install any updates you see.

Bonus Tips

• Keep backups of your save files. Just copy them to a folder on your desktop occasionally.
• Use mod managers. Tools like The Sims 4 Mod Manager can help you control and test mods easily.
• Join the community. Forums like Reddit’s r/thesims or EA’s official forums can help when you’re stuck!

When Nothing Else Works

If you’ve tried everything and Error Code 122 still haunts you, your save file might be beyond saving. It’s a bummer, but sometimes it happens.

Your last resort options:

• Start a new game
• Contact EA Support
• Upload your save to the forums for help

It’s tough, especially if you’ve spent hours crafting the perfect Sim drama. But think of it as a fresh start — time to try that evil vampire storyline you were too scared to do before!

Final Thoughts

Error Code 122 in The Sims 4 is annoying — but fixable! Whether you’re clearing mods, repairing your game, or just reloading a safe backup, there’s almost always a way out.

Stay patient. Sometimes, tech hiccups come with the joy of a highly moddable game like Sims 4. Just take a deep breath, follow the steps, and soon enough, you’ll be back to micromanaging your Sims’ love lives, careers, and questionable fashion choices!

Happy Simming!