If you love modding Baldur’s Gate 3, you’ve probably hit a bump with the Data Mismatch error. It’s frustrating, right? One minute you’re enjoying new content, and the next, you’re battling an error that just won’t go away. Let’s dive into how you can tackle this issue head-on without pulling your hair out.
Table of Contents
What Causes the Data Mismatch Error?
This error pops up when a mod isn’t playing nice with the game or other mods. Mods can get corrupted, especially after updates, causing conflicts. You’ll see the warning, but you can often keep playing. It’s just the game’s way of saying, “Hey, something might go wrong here.” Here’s how you can fix it:
Solution 1: Remove Problematic Mods
New updates? They might have messed with your mods. Recently installed a mod and noticed the error? That could be the culprit. Use the Mod Manager to remove any new or problematic mods. Or, go to %appdata%\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3\Mods and delete the related files manually.
Solution 2: Check for Obsolete Patch Files
Sometimes updates leave leftover files that create a mess. Think of it like crumbs after eating a snack—leftover pieces can cause issues. Go to %appdata%\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3\Data and delete any files labeled “Patch#_HF#.pak” (with # being a number smaller than the current patch).
Solution 3: Delete External Files
External files that didn’t come from the game itself can trigger the error. Delete the entire Mods folder in %appdata%\Local\Larian Studios\Baldur’s Gate 3 (but back up any mods you trust). Then, head to Steam\steamapps\common\Baldur’s Gate 3\Data and delete the Generated and Public folders if they exist.
Solution 4: Verify Local Data
Missing or corrupted files can cause chaos. Luckily, Steam’s got your back with its file verification tool. Right-click Baldur’s Gate 3 in Steam, go to Properties > Installed Files, then click on Verify integrity of game files. It’ll clean up corrupted files and add back anything missing.
If All Else Fails: Reinstall
If you’ve tried everything and that error is still laughing at you, a full reinstall might be the last resort. But here’s the thing—if your game is running smoothly and there are no crashes, don’t stress too much. Sometimes, the error’s just a little nuisance that won’t affect your gameplay.