OneDrive File Issues

Stop OneDrive from Backing Up Game Files in Documents

Tauseeq Magsi Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to prevent OneDrive from syncing large video game data folders located in the local Documents directory to avoid exceeding cloud storage limits.

How to Stop OneDrive from Backing Up Game Files in the Documents Folder

Product: Microsoft OneDrive
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing OneDrive storage capacity when playing PC games that default to saving large amounts of data locally in the Documents folder.
Observed behavior: OneDrive reports that storage is massively over capacity (e.g., 1,212%) due to syncing approximately 60 GB of video game files from the Documents folder, and reorganizing the disrupted file paths takes significant time.

Before you start

Before modifying your sync settings, ensure your PC games are completely closed and do not immediately delete files from your OneDrive folder to clear space, as this may permanently delete them from your local hard drive.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable OneDrive Backup for the Entire Documents Folder

Stop OneDrive from syncing the Documents folder completely, which is currently the only native way to exclude game files saved in this specific directory.

OneDrive does not allow you to selectively exclude specific subfolders or individual files within the Desktop, Documents, or Pictures directories. Because many PC games default to saving large data files in Documents, the only effective method to stop these uploads is to turn off the backup for the entire Documents directory.

Open OneDrive Settings

Click the OneDrive cloud icon located in the Windows taskbar notification area, click the gear icon (Help & Settings), and select Settings from the menu.

Access Backup Settings

Navigate to the Sync and backup tab on the left sidebar, then click on the Manage backup button.

Disable Documents Sync

Find the Documents folder in the list and toggle the switch to the Off position to stop backing it up to the cloud.

Disable OneDrive Backup for the Entire Documents Folder

File Deletion Warning: Be cautious when attempting to regain storage control by deleting files. Deleting a file from the synchronized OneDrive folder will also remove it from your local computer. If you accidentally delete a crucial game file, immediately check the online OneDrive recycle bin to recover it.

Solution 2

Temporarily Increase Storage to Safely Reorganize Files

Use a Microsoft 365 trial to temporarily increase your OneDrive storage capacity so you can safely move your game files to a non-syncing directory without encountering persistent sync errors.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Your Documents Better with WPS Office

While you manage your local storage and cloud backups, consider switching to WPS Office. It is a lightweight, free alternative to Microsoft Office that offers a familiar interface without forcing unwanted system-wide folder syncs that disrupt your PC gaming experience.

1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button.
2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the on-screen prompts to set up the software.
3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office to effortlessly manage your documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats, including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX.Offers independent cloud storage options that won't accidentally sync your heavy PC game files.Lightweight installation that consumes minimal system resources and hard drive space.Free, all-in-one suite for Word, PDF, Excel, and PowerPoint with a highly familiar user interface.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stop OneDrive from syncing just one specific game folder in Documents?

No, OneDrive does not support selective syncing for individual subfolders or files within the Documents, Desktop, or Pictures folders. It is an all-or-nothing process. You must either disable backup for the entire Documents folder or move the game files to a different local directory.

Will I lose my game progress if I stop syncing the Documents folder?

Stopping the sync will not delete your local files, so your current game progress remains safe on your PC. However, any new saves will no longer be backed up to the OneDrive cloud automatically.

How do I recover game files I accidentally deleted from OneDrive?

You can recover deleted files by logging into the OneDrive website via your browser, navigating to the Recycle Bin on the left sidebar, selecting the deleted game files, and clicking the Restore button at the top of the page.

Document & File Issues