Fix Enshrouded System Memory Error

Enshrouded, the captivating survival action RPG from Keen Games, has enthralled players with its open-world exploration and crafting mechanics since its early access launch on Steam. However, many PC gamers encounter a persistent hurdle: the “not enough system memory available” error that prevents the game from starting. This issue typically arises on systems with less than 16GB of RAM, serving as a developer-imposed warning to ensure optimal performance. While not a hard block, it disrupts the immersive experience of battling Shrouds and building bases. This guide provides a step-by-step roadmap to diagnose and resolve the problem, drawing from official patch notes, community solutions, and system optimization best practices.

Understanding the Root Causes of the Memory Error

The error message in Enshrouded is triggered deliberately when the system detects insufficient RAM, specifically under 16GB, to handle the game’s demands during intensive sessions. Unlike a true out-of-memory crash, this is a precautionary alert from Keen Games to avoid poor frame rates, stuttering, or frequent crashes in sprawling worlds filled with procedural generation and multiplayer elements. Factors exacerbating it include background processes consuming RAM, outdated drivers forcing inefficient memory allocation, or virtual memory misconfigurations on Windows systems.

Related issues like “out of video memory” or “graphic memory too small” often overlap, pointing to VRAM shortages on GPUs with 4GB or less, common in mid-range setups trying high textures or shadows. High CPU usage from unoptimized code in early access builds can also spill over, making 8GB systems particularly vulnerable. Community reports confirm that even 32GB setups occasionally hit this if RAM is fragmented by overlays like Discord or browser tabs.

Quick Bypass: Steam Launch Options

The fastest workaround, endorsed in official patch notes, involves modifying Steam launch options to disable the RAM check. This doesn’t add memory but overrides the warning, allowing launch on lower-spec hardware—though performance may suffer.

• Right-click Enshrouded in your Steam library and select Properties.
• In the General tab, find Launch Options.
• Enter --disable-ram-check and close the window.
• Launch the game; the error should vanish.

For windowed mode stability, some users append -windowed -noborder, reducing fullscreen overhead. Test in short sessions first, as bypassing doesn’t fix underlying shortages.

Verify Game Integrity and Update Essentials

Corrupted files or outdated components often masquerade as memory errors. Start here before deeper tweaks.

1. Verify Integrity via Steam: Library > Right-click Enshrouded > Properties > Installed Files > Verify Integrity of Game Files. This scans and redownloads damaged assets without losing saves.
2. Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel drivers mishandle VRAM pooling. Use GeForce Experience, AMD Software, or Intel Arc Control for the latest versions.
3. Windows and Steam Updates: Ensure Windows is fully patched (Settings > Update & Security) and Steam is current to avoid compatibility blocks.

Post-verification, restart your PC to clear temporary files and reset memory pools.

Optimize System Resources for Peak Performance

Freeing RAM is crucial. Enshrouded’s voxel-based world and physics simulations gobble resources quickly.

Disable overlays (NVIDIA GeForce Experience, Steam Overlay if problematic) and cap FPS at 60 via in-game VSync or NVIDIA Control Panel to curb memory spikes.

Expand Virtual Memory (Pagefile) Settings

Windows uses a pagefile as virtual RAM on your drive. Enshrouded benefits immensely from expansion, especially on SSDs.

• Search View advanced system settings.
• Performance > Settings > Advanced > Virtual Memory > Change.
• Uncheck Automatically manage.
• Select your fastest drive (C: or SSD), choose Custom size.
• Initial: 1.5x your RAM (e.g., 12GB for 8GB system).
• Maximum: 3x your RAM (e.g., 24GB).
• Set > OK > Restart.

This acts as a buffer during world loads, preventing hard crashes. Monitor via Task Manager’s Performance tab post-change.

Graphics and In-Game Adjustments

Lower settings reduce memory load without sacrificing fun.

• Texture/Shadow Quality: Medium or Low; disable Anti-Aliasing if VRAM-limited.
• Resolution: Drop to 1080p from 4K.
• View Distance: Medium to limit draw calls.
• For AMD GPUs: Add environment variable DISABLE_LAYER_AMD_SWITCHABLE_GRAPHICS_1=1 via System Properties > Advanced > Environment Variables.

Install latest Vulkan runtime from LunarG for better graphics stability.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Issues

If basics fail:

• RAM Testing: Use Windows Memory Diagnostic (mdsched.exe) or MemTest86. Faulty sticks mimic errors.
• Event Viewer: Search for Enshrouded faults under Windows Logs > Application for clues.
• BIOS Update: Check motherboard site for RAM compatibility patches.
• Reinstall: Uninstall, delete leftover folders (%appdata%\Enshrouded), reinstall to C: drive.
• Antivirus Whitelist: Add game folder to exceptions in Windows Defender or third-party AV.

As a last resort, delete save files (back up first) from %appdata%\Enshrouded to rule out corrupted worlds, though this erases progress.

Hardware Recommendations for Enshrouded

Minimum specs call for 8GB RAM, but 16GB+ is ideal. Pair with:

• GPU: GTX 1060 6GB / RX 5500 XT or better for 1080p/60fps.
• CPU: i5-10400 / Ryzen 5 3600.
• Storage: SSD mandatory for load times.

Upgrade RAM if under 16GB—dual-channel kits yield 20-30% better performance in open-world titles.

Post-Patch Monitoring and Prevention

Keen Games addressed crashes in update 0.7.0.1, including AMD GPU fixes and server logins. Check Steam news for ongoing optimizations. Prevent recurrence by maintaining a lean boot and monitoring RAM usage with tools like HWMonitor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does bypassing the RAM check harm my PC?

No, it’s safe but may cause stuttering on low-RAM systems. Monitor temps and add physical RAM long-term.

Why does Enshrouded check for 16GB specifically?

To warn of suboptimal play; the game uses procedural generation taxing memory.

Will increasing pagefile slow my SSD?

Minimal impact on modern NVMe SSDs; use a dedicated HDD if concerned.

Is this error multiplayer-specific?

No, affects single-player too, but dedicated servers amplify it.

Can I fix VRAM errors the same way?

Partially—lower graphics help, but upgrade GPU for >4GB VRAM.