Game localization 101: Basic points to translate a game properly (v. 2.5)

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Rough translation: Game localization is a translation branch that is included within the localization field, it means, the adaptation of a product in its linguistic and cultural forms to make it more appropriate in other markets in which the product will be commercialized. In order to do this, we have to translate dialogues, spells and abilities of the different characters (if we talk about game localization in particular), but we also must take into account several elements such as cultural references, dialects, jokes, dates, ages, currencies, censorship, religious issues, music, etc. In other words, one could say that localization is beyond of the mere translation of a product. It is, after all, a process that moves millions of euros every day in the software and entertainment industry. In the presentation we can see the four major areas in which localization is divided, that it, software, web pages, applications and games. Now, what we translate in a video game? The truth is there are many translatable elements often overlooked. They are: the game box, the instructions or the manual, the credits... Now I will show you the most common translatable parts of a video game: Promotional material (the trailer of the game, the box, all the marketing material... As for the trailers, there is a range of content that we often ignore, as the fine print that goes quickly below main subtitles, the age rating of the game, etc.), The manual or instructions, The in-game text, Licensing agreements and the installation wizard … The process to localize a video game is complex and requires an extensive previous training from the translator. Normally the localization process begins with the customer's call and continues with budget negotiations and several analysis of the game. Then the game is translated into the target language, a task that can take weeks or even months, depending on the volume of text that the game has. Then a process of linguistic testing and proofreading is carried out and it can take even more than the translation itself. These tests are used mainly to polish the translation, avoid linguistic errors and inconsistencies and, ultimately, to ensure that the translation is optimal and achieves the required quality standards. The theme of the game also affects the translator, who must be prepared to deal with any text, either cooking or medicine, wars like World War II or fantastic worlds full of magic. Therefore, the translator shall conduct a study of the lexicon of the game and adapt to it to carry out a perfect translation of the term used in the game. Video game localizers should also take special care to any culture issue that may be a problem to localize the game in a particular country, avoiding or replacing anything that might be an obstacle. For further information: Original version (Spanish) http://traductorescompulsivos.blogspot.com.es/2014/08/que-es-la-localizacion-de-videojuegos.html

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