The error "failed to load profile" frequently occurs because your antivirus or Windows security is preventing the game from writing to the Documents folder.

Copy everything in this folder to a safe location on your desktop.

Ensure Cloud save synchronization is toggled off in settings if you are using an integrated launcher. 3. Check for Permission & Antivirus Blocks

Find profile.dat and delete it. You should also delete steam_autocloud.vdf if it exists.

Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection . If Controlled folder access is on, add SOTTR.exe to the allowed apps list. 4. Platform-Specific Troubleshooting

Right-click the game in your Steam Library > Properties > General > toggle off Steam Cloud .

If your Documents folder is backed up by OneDrive , ensure the service is running. If it's paused or disconnected, the game may lose "permission" to read your save path.

Often, the error is caused by a buggy cloud sync that keeps downloading a "corrupted" version of your profile.