NieR: Automata Steam Update Bloats Install Size to 366 GB Due to Bizarre DLC Bug

Players attempting to install or update NieR: Automata on PC via Steam have encountered a massive storage allocation error. Following a routine language patch released on November 5, 2026, the game’s installation requirement suddenly spiked from its standard 50 GB footprint to an astronomical 366.56 GB.

The sudden storage spike sparked confusion across community forums before official acknowledgments clarified that the issue stems from an installation calculation bug rather than actual downloaded data.

For official updates and announcements, visit the official Square Enix support portal.

What Caused the 366 GB Installation Bug?

The unusual patch was originally deployed by publisher Square Enix to introduce three new regional language packs to the PC version: Korean, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese. However, the update inadvertently altered how Steam calculates files associated with the game’s downloadable content.

• The DLC Stacking Glitch: According to community findings and technical breakdowns, the update caused each piece of additional content included in editions like the YoRHa Edition to register the full size of the base game.
• Calculation Error: Because Steam stacked the file size of the main game onto every individual DLC package during the pre-installation check, the launcher demanded over 300 GB of free empty space before allowing the download to proceed.
• Actual Disk Footprint: Players who cleared enough space or bypassed the check confirmed that the actual download size and post-installation folder size remained virtually unchanged at around 50 GB.

Square Enix Acknowledges Issue and Provides Temporary Workaround

Following widespread user reports and negative user reviews piling up on Steam, the development team officially acknowledged the error on social media.

“We have confirmed an issue where, following the latest update to the Steam version of NieR: Automata, the installation process indicates that more storage space is required than expected,” the official NieR PR account stated. “We are currently investigating the cause and working on a solution.”

While developers work on deploying a permanent patch to correct the installer’s math, Square Enix and community experts shared a simple temporary workaround for players blocked by the storage check:

• Open your Steam Library and right-click on NieR: Automata.
• Select Properties, then navigate to the DLC tab.
• Temporarily uncheck the listed DLC packages.
• Start the download for the base game, which will now bypass the inflated storage requirement.
• Immediately after the download initiates, re-check the DLC boxes to queue them normally without triggering the size bug.

Players utilizing portable handheld hardware like the Steam Deck, where local storage space is at a premium, found the workaround particularly vital while awaiting the official patch rollout.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does NieR: Automata actually take up 366 GB on PC?

No. The actual file size of the game remains around 50 GB. The 366 GB figure is caused by an installation pre-allocation bug where Steam miscalculated the size of the game’s DLC.

How can I fix the 366 GB install error on Steam?

You can temporarily bypass the error by opening the game’s properties in Steam, navigating to the DLC tab, unchecking the DLC to start the download, and then re-checking them once installation begins.

Are developers working on a fix for the NieR: Automata storage bug?

Yes. Square Enix confirmed that the development team is investigating the issue and preparing an official patch to correct the storage calculation.