Game translation and localisation: A complete guide

Localization of a game is the process of translating a video game for any foreign market. The process involves enclosing  globalisation and assurance of linguistic quality. However, the translation of the game is much more than a simple translation of the texts of the game.

What Is Game Localization?

Localization of a game is the process of transforming a game so that players in different locations can play the game effortlessly without lacking anywhere. Although the process may sound simple, it’s pretty complex once you realise the amount of work that goes in the background for successful localization.

Localization of the game requires various language-related steps that go into translating the in-game dialogue and instructions. Game translation and localisation also involves technical processes like pulling of strings from the designated code and transferring them into the translation management system.

What are the steps to translate your game?

Select your localization company

A localization company can help you get ahead with the knick-knacks of bootstrapping. Look for companies who excel in both localization and linguistic approach.

Create a Localization Kit

Localization is a crucial step to enhancing the outcome of your game. A localization kit helps you to convey your knowledge about the game to the translators.

Undertake Quality Assurance Checks

Before you consider integrating your translations with the visual elements, investigate the quality of both. Ask your service provider for proofreaders for the languages you are unaware of to get rid of any typos.

Pull Everything Together

Once you have everything figured out, it’s time to put everything in one basket. Then, get ready to mould all your code to update the visual elements in sync with the translated copy.

Localise Your Packaging

Apart from the game itself, you must also emphasise packing it locally. It means that your game should represent and sound familiar to the local people.

Summing it up

Game translation and localization are entirely dependent on the potential of the game and the quality of the service. We hope you have gathered valuable insights about translation from this blog.