What Is Video Game Localization?

Gaming | Media & Entertainment

Video game localization is the process of adapting game content for a specific region, ensuring it feels as though it was originally created for that audience.

Many localization providers attempt to approach video game localization as they would other industries, such as legal, life sciences, or retail. In those cases, providers typically accept the translation materials along with glossaries or translation memory (TM), pass them to a translator, have them proofread, and deliver them back to the client.

However, video game localization is far more nuanced and intricate. Here’s what makes it unique:

1. Game Familiarization

The localization process starts with a game testing team playing through the game to develop detailed style guides, term bases, and a customized TM. The team takes screenshots of crucial in-game elements and dialogue to provide translators with context. This helps the translation team understand the content and context quickly and effectively.

2. Selecting the Right Translators

Choosing the right translators is critical for a successful localization. Ideally, the team comprises gamers familiar with various genres.

For instance, in racing games, translators should understand technical details such as racing rules, engine specifications, pit lane protocols, flag signals, tire types, and driving styles. Expertise ensures translations are not only accurate but also immersive and engaging.

3. Translation Memory and Automation

Not all translations are fully manual. Translation memory and automation can significantly streamline the process.

For example, platform-specific documentation and repetitive elements from sequels—like character names, technical jargon, or dialogue—can be auto-populated using translation memory. This saves time and reduces costs, ensuring consistency across series entries.

4. Proofreading and Refinement

Once the translation is completed, a proofreading team reviews the content to ensure it aligns with the style guides, glossaries, and quality standards. They collaborate with translators to address inconsistencies or inaccuracies.

After the content passes the proofreading phase, it moves to the quality assurance stage.

5. Quality Assurance (QA)

During QA, the localized content is tested to ensure it integrates seamlessly into the game. The team verifies that translations fit within the screen dimensions of the intended device and flags any potentially objectionable content for specific regions.

If issues arise, QA teams collaborate with translators and proofreaders to make adjustments. They also provide clients with a summarized report highlighting any areas that need attention.

2025 Industry Update

As of 2024, the global video game localization market exceeded $8.5 billion and is projected to surpass $10 billion by 2025. Rapid growth is particularly evident in Asia and Latin America. Markets like China, South Korea, and India have seen localization demand grow by 35%, 28%, and 32%, respectively.

Player feedback shows that over 70% of gamers consider localization quality a crucial factor in their purchasing decisions, with poor translations leading to widespread dissatisfaction and loss of revenue.

6. Ensuring High-Quality Localization

To ensure high-quality, consistent localization, you need a dedicated team of gaming enthusiasts who can consolidate essential context for translators to deliver the impactful localization your players expect.

For comprehensive and professional video game localization that reaches global audiences effectively, contact our expert team today. Let’s make your game resonate with players worldwide.

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