Game localization is adapting video games into different languages for a particular region in such a way that it appears the game was created specifically for that region from the beginning. Localization enables far more precise language adaptation because it considers each culture’s unique manifestations. In contrast, translation can have certain limits regarding the distinctive terminology from one culture to another.
Localization enables businesses to position themselves in new areas and to increase their opportunities as the gaming industry continues to expand. The process of localizing is lengthy and loaded with difficulties. Different professional game localization services provide the entire process of game localization. To minimize linguistic and cultural barriers and produce the best results in any target language, it is crucial to collaborate with a team that has both gaming and localization knowledge. Depending on the intricacy of the game, hundreds of people will be involved in its production. Including the development team for the game, LQA experts, translators, UX and sound specialists, etc.
Game localizers must meet the target audience’s expectations. Finding the appropriate tone is essential, and they must always adhere to the original version. While respecting the game’s narrative and goals, special attention must be paid to the target culture, its customs, slang, and everyday phrases. It is believed that a skilled translator must be invisible for this reason. A successful localization should sound completely natural and completely transmit the original message.
Digital game localization is a distinct process from software adaptation. Because video, music, text, and images are all combined in games, the gaming industry has its unique characteristics. Game localization takes into consideration both the narrative and foreign legal systems.
The arrangement of multimedia interactive entertainment software is implied by game localization. This calls for language expertise in specific gaming situations and creative thinking to produce a consistent speech pattern and character development. This kind of service must consider that every culture views entertainment differently.
The primary goal of localizing a game is to make it appear as though it was created especially for that market. The linguists and localizers of the games must be avid players to comprehend player preferences fully.
The content must be examined while accounting for various factors, such as the spaces that call for each language (for example, German needs more space for the words than English). Additionally, translators should know both the source and target languages and certain cultural attitudes.
Table of Contents
The Process Of Game Localization
1. Comprehension
To create comprehensive style guidelines and word bases, and fill a custom translation memory with a glossary, a game testing team first goes through the game. They gather crucial details and conversations from screenshots and present them to the translation team in a simple, understandable format—this aids in translators’ fast and efficient understanding of the content and context.
2. A Suitable Translator
It’s crucial to select the best translators for each job. It is highly beneficial if the translation team comprises gamers with expertise in a wide range of gaming genres.
For instance, translators for car-racing video games are experts in every facet of the sport, including thorough knowledge of the regulations, engine components, pit lane, and flag laws, tire compounds, driving techniques, and more.
3. Automated Translation Memory
Translations are not all made equally. There are direct translations, whole game transcreations—which have a more significant international impact—or a combination of the two.
Additionally, translation memory is used for automated translations. Since precise platform-specific documentation seldom changes and is always included with each release, some portions of game translation can be automated utilizing translation memory. These procedures can be automated to save time and money.
If the game is the most recent in a series, some translation elements have been carried over from an older version. Character names, technical details, and even speech and commentary are all possible inclusions. This repeated and consistent data can be auto-populated using translation memory.
4. Proofreading
The proofreading team gets to work after the translator has finished the translation. The group collaborates with the translator to fix anything that doesn’t appear to be correct. They incorporate the glossaries and ensure translation quality has been attained while ensuring the game and all of its components adhere to their style guides.
After everything has been edited and accepted, the quality assurance stage begins.
5. Quality Control
During this step, the quality assurance (QA) team examines how the translation functions in the target language. While playing the game, they test how the localized content will look on screen.
For instance, they check that the translated text will fit on the device’s screen and identify any “objectionable content” that would be problematic in the target regions.
After gathering input on the translation, the QA team collaborates with the translator and proofreader to make any additional revisions required. They also produce a summarized report with any concerns the customer has to resolve.
Start with a committed group of gamers who can gather all the data specialized translators require to produce the translation publishers are looking for if you want your video game to have high-quality, consistent language.
The following are some justifications for localizing your game:
- You want to increase sales.
- Boost the rating on the App Store.
- You want to maintain your position in a competitive market.
- You want more people to download the file.
- Retaining command of the contest.
- You want your players to believe they matter.
Final Thought
In conclusion, many players will only download a game if it is offered in their language. The localization of games has many benefits, including more purchases and higher sales.
In terms of video games, it means that all of your game’s features have been translated into the languages your fans worldwide speak.
Localization of video games is a complex and time-consuming procedure. If it is not done correctly, the organization risks missing launch deadlines. Additionally, being late to market results in lost potential revenue.
Although it takes time and effort, the process is worth it. Gaming is one of the few sectors anticipated to keep expanding gradually.
It’s a fast-paced industry. Localizing your games will help you keep up with trends and attract new customers. You’ll want an experienced group of translators and localization experts to accomplish this. They’ll translate the setting of your game into another language.
