NieR: Automata's file size suddenly jumps to 365GB overnight

A routine language update should not make a familiar PC game look as though it needs the storage space of several modern blockbusters. Yet that is the problem facing some players trying to install NieR: Automata on Steam. Following its November update, the game's listed storage requirement reportedly jumped from around 50 GB to approximately 366 GB. Fortunately, the developers have acknowledged the issue and shared a temporary workaround while investigating a permanent solution.

What went wrong with the NieR: Automata update

The update was released on November 6, 2026, Japan Standard Time, and was intended to expand the game's language options. According to the update notes, the new additions include Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Korean.

However, what should have been a relatively straightforward update quickly became a problem for PC players. Before the change, NieR: Automata required approximately 50 GB of storage. Following the update, some Steam users reported an installation requirement of around 366 GB.

Naturally, this caused confusion among players, particularly those who were simply hoping to download the latest language support. There is no indication that the update introduces a substantial amount of new gameplay content. Instead, the unusually large requirement appears to be connected to an installation issue affecting the Steam version.

The development team acknowledged the problem in an official statement dated November 6, 2026. According to the announcement, the team had identified an issue causing the game to require significantly more storage space than intended during installation. The developers apologized for the inconvenience and confirmed that they were investigating the cause while working toward a resolution.

Some reports and player observations suggest that the problem could involve how downloadable content (DLC) is being handled during installation. One possible explanation is that certain DLC entries are being counted as requiring additional copies of the base game.

How to fix the update issue temporarily

Fortunately, players do not necessarily have to wait for the permanent update to install the base game. The developers have provided a temporary workaround through Steam's settings. Players experiencing the NieR: Automata update issue can follow these steps:

1. Open Steam and navigate to the game library.
2. Right-click NieR: Automata and select Properties.
3. Open the DLC section.
4. Uncheck all listed DLC items.
5. Return to the library and download the base game.

According to the developers, disabling the DLC entries allows players to download the main game using its intended storage requirement. This is only a temporary solution, however. Players who want to access their additional content should monitor official announcements for confirmation that the installation problem has been resolved before re-enabling the DLC.

How the community reacts

The timing is unfortunate for a game that continues to attract attention years after its original release. NieR: Automata reached 10 million copies shipped and sold in February 2026, demonstrating the lasting appeal of PlatinumGames' action RPG. Adding support for more languages is a welcome improvement, particularly for players who previously had fewer localization options.

Unfortunately, the installation problem has turned what should have been a positive update into an unnecessary inconvenience. For now, the safest approach is to use the developers' temporary workaround and wait for further information about the permanent fix.

Putting these inconveniences aside, we'd still encourage anyone who hasn't played NieR: Automata to give it a try. Before making your purchase, be sure to check out our website's NieR: Automata price comparison page to find the best deals available. It's a great way to pick up a fantastic game while saving a little money along the way!