What Is Video Game Localization?

Understanding Video Game Localization: Why It Matters

In recent years, the video game industry has grown tremendously around the globe. In 2021, 3.24 billion people played video games, with Asia leading the way at 1.48 billion gamers and Europe following with 715 million (Statista, 2021). As gaming reaches more people each year, game developers must find effective ways to stand out and appeal to different audiences.

One of the best ways to do this is through video game localization. In this guide, you’ll learn what localization means, why it’s so important, and how to do it right.

What Is Video Game Localization?

Video game localization means adapting a game for players in different regions. It goes much further than simply translating words. Localization involves making the game’s text, audio, graphics, and cultural references feel natural to players from a specific country or area.

• Translating the game’s dialogue and on-screen text
• Changing visuals or character designs to fit cultural preferences
• Altering jokes, idioms, or storylines to suit local tastes
• Adjusting date, time, and currency formats

A poor localization can ruin a game’s reputation. For example, in the 1980s, the Japanese game Zero Wing became infamous for its awkward English translation, leading to global ridicule. Even decades later, the phrase “All your base are belong to us” is still remembered as a localization failure. This shows just how important it is to get localization right.

The Main Parts of Game Localization

Internationalization

Internationalization comes before localization. This step prepares the game for different languages and cultures by:

• Making sure the user interface can handle various character sets
• Allowing space for longer or shorter words in menus
• Customizing date, time, and currency formats

This process makes it easier to adapt the game later without major redesigns.

Translation

Translation changes the game’s words, dialogue, and sometimes audio into another language. Using experienced translators—especially those who are native speakers of the target language—results in a better gaming experience. Human experts provide better results than most automated transcription and translation tools.

Adaptation and Culturalization

Localization adjusts more than the language. For some games, this may mean:

• Replacing graphics, symbols, or jokes that may not work in another culture
• Changing storylines or missions to fit local laws or traditions
• Rerecording voiceovers to sound natural in the target language

Why Video Game Localization Is Important

For developers and game companies, high-quality localization has many benefits. Here’s why you should consider investing in a full localization process:

Reach New Markets

• Players are more likely to purchase and enjoy games in their native language
• Games adapted to local preferences attract new fans and open up new regions
• In some countries, laws require games to follow specific language or content rules

Boost Reputation and Get Positive Reviews

• Gamers appreciate when a game feels personalized to their culture
• Good localization leads to better reviews, higher ratings, and increased word-of-mouth
• Players are more likely to explore other games by the same developer

Increase Sales and Downloads

• Localized games often see a large increase in sales and downloads (Statista, 2021)
• Players recommend games they fully understand and enjoy
• Games that support many languages reach much larger audiences

Languages to Prioritize for Game Localization

Most developers start with English because it’s widely spoken in gaming. But to maximize your reach, consider localizing into:

• Chinese (Mandarin) — huge player base in Asia
• Spanish — spoken widely in Europe and the Americas
• French
• German
• Italian
• Russian
• Japanese
• Korean

Use data from gaming platforms and app stores to check where most of your players are located. Prioritize languages based on your game’s audience and feedback.

Steps to Localize a Video Game

1. Prepare your game:
   • Use clear, simple language that’s easy to translate
   • Organize all text, dialogue scripts, and assets for translation
2. Partner with professionals:
   • Employ native-speaking translators or a trusted localization provider
   • Consider text translation services and audio translation for spoken content
3. Test the localized game:
   • Playtest with native speakers or focus groups
   • Check for missing translations, awkward text, or cultural mistakes
4. Update regularly:
   • Fix problems found after release
   • Add new content in all supported languages

Tips for Successful Video Game Localization

• Start localization early in the development process
• Keep sentences short and clear for easier translation
• Choose professional proofreading services to catch errors before release
• Use subtitles and closed captions for accessibility
• Monitor reviews and feedback to spot localization problems quickly

Conclusion: Make Your Game a Global Success

Video game localization is crucial if you want your game to be a hit worldwide. It lets you reach more players, boosts sales, and builds a strong reputation. But localization is complex and requires experienced translators and developers.

If you want to make sure your game’s localization is accurate and high-quality, GoTranscript offers expert solutions. From translation and transcription to subtitles and proofreading, our services help you create a seamless, enjoyable experience for gamers everywhere. Order professional localization services today and give your players the gameplay they deserve, no matter where they live.