How to Fix Destination Folder Must Be Empty Steam
Are you encountering the “Destination folder must be empty” error when trying to install or update games on Steam? This common issue can be frustrating, but fear not! We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to help you resolve this problem and get back to gaming without any hassle.
1. Close Steam:
Before you begin troubleshooting, make sure that Steam is closed. This will prevent any conflicts or interruptions during the process.
2. Verify the game files:
Open Steam and go to the Library. Right-click on the game causing the error and select “Properties.” Click on the “Local Files” tab and then choose “Verify Integrity of Game Files.” Steam will automatically check and repair any corrupted or missing files. Wait for the process to complete, and then try installing or updating the game again.
3. Check for disk space:
This error can occur if the destination folder does not have enough space to accommodate the game. To fix this, you need to free up some disk space on your computer. Here’s how:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the destination folder where the game is supposed to be installed.
- Sort the files by size and delete any unnecessary files or folders that are taking up space.
- Empty the Recycle Bin to permanently delete the files you’ve just removed.
4. Rename the game folder:
Occasionally, renaming the game folder can resolve the “Destination folder must be empty” error. Follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the Steam installation folder.
- Locate the folder corresponding to the game that’s causing the error.
- Right-click on the folder and select “Rename.” Change the name to something else, such as “Game_old” or “Game_old1” (including the quotes).
- Open Steam and try installing or updating the game again.
5. Clear the Steam cache:
Corrupted cache files can sometimes cause this error. To clear the cache, follow these steps:
- Close Steam.
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the following location: C:\Users\[YourUsername]\AppData\Local\Steam\
- Locate the “Cache” folder and delete it.
- Restart Steam and try installing or updating the game again.
6. Reinstall Steam:
If none of the above solutions work, it may be necessary to reinstall Steam. To do this:
- Uninstall Steam from your computer.
- Download the latest version of Steam from the official website.
- Install Steam and log in to your account.
- Try installing or updating the game again.
By following these steps, you should be able to fix the “Destination folder must be empty” error on Steam and continue enjoying your favorite games. If the issue persists, consider seeking help from the Steam community or contacting Steam support for further assistance.
