How do I troubleshoot the "Character Data Corrupted" error?

The ''Character Data Corrupted'' error in Valheim is a frustrating issue that can occur when your character''s save file becomes damaged or unreadable. This error typically prevents you from loading your character into the game, which can be especially problematic in multiplayer sessions. Understanding the causes and solutions for this error is crucial for both new and experienced players to ensure their progress is not lost.\n\nOne common cause of this error is improper game shutdowns or crashes. If Valheim closes unexpectedly, the character save file may not save correctly, leading to corruption. Additionally, mods or third-party tools that alter game files can sometimes interfere with character data, causing the error. To avoid this, always ensure the game is closed properly and avoid using untested mods or tools.\n\nTo troubleshoot the ''Character Data Corrupted'' error, start by locating your character save files. On Windows, these files are typically stored in the following directory: C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\LocalLow\IronGate\Valheim\characters. Look for files with the .fch extension, which represent your character data. If you suspect corruption, make a backup of these files before proceeding.\n\nIf the error persists, try restoring a previous version of your character save file. Windows has a built-in feature called ''Previous Versions'' that allows you to restore older versions of files. Right-click on the corrupted .fch file, select ''Restore previous versions,'' and choose a version from before the corruption occurred. This can often resolve the issue without losing significant progress.\n\nAnother solution is to manually delete the corrupted character file and replace it with a backup. If you have a backup of your character data, simply delete the corrupted .fch file and replace it with the backup. If you don''t have a backup, consider using a cloud save service like Steam Cloud to recover your character data. However, this method is not always reliable, so regular manual backups are recommended.\n\nFor players using mods, the error may be caused by incompatible or outdated mods. Disable all mods and try loading your character again. If the error is resolved, re-enable your mods one by one to identify the problematic one. Always ensure your mods are up-to-date and compatible with the current version of Valheim.\n\nIn some cases, the error may be related to server issues rather than your character data. If you''re playing on a dedicated server, ask the server host to check for any server-side issues. Restarting the server or updating its software can sometimes resolve the problem. If you''re hosting the server yourself, ensure your server software is up-to-date and running smoothly.\n\nTo prevent future occurrences of the ''Character Data Corrupted'' error, adopt good save file management practices. Regularly back up your character and world save files to an external drive or cloud storage. Avoid using untested mods or tools, and always close the game properly. These steps will help safeguard your progress and ensure a smoother multiplayer experience.\n\nIn summary, the ''Character Data Corrupted'' error can be resolved by restoring previous versions of save files, using backups, or addressing mod-related issues. By understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of encountering this error and enjoy uninterrupted gameplay in Valheim.