Games

Localisation is a crucial aspect of the gaming industry as games are distributed globally, and players from different regions have different cultural backgrounds, languages, and preferences. In this webpage, we will discuss how media localisation is used in games and its significance.

 

Translation of in-game text

One of the most common forms of media localisation used in games is the translation of in-game text. This involves adapting the game's text, dialogues, and menus into different languages to make them accessible to players who speak other languages. For instance, a game developed in English would need to be translated into languages such as Spanish, French, German, and others to reach a global audience.

 

Dubbing or Subtitling

Another way of localizing games is by dubbing or subtitling the audio and video content. Dubbing involves recording voice overs in different languages to match the original dialogue, while subtitling entails adding text captions in different languages to the game's visuals. Both methods are effective in making the game more accessible to players who do not speak the original language.

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Cultural adaptation

Cultural adaptation is also an essential aspect of media localisation in games. This involves making changes to the game's content to suit the cultural preferences of the target audience. For instance, a game developed in Japan may need to be modified to suit the preferences of players in the US, Europe, or other regions. These changes may include modifications to character designs, backgrounds, or themes.

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Marketing localisation

Lastly, media localisation in games includes marketing localisation. This involves adapting the game's marketing campaigns to suit the preferences and cultural nuances of different regions. For instance, the game's advertising may need to be modified to appeal to players in Japan or Europe.

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In conclusion, media localisation is an integral part of the gaming industry. It enables game developers to reach a wider audience, cater to their needs, and provide a better gaming experience. The localisation process involves translating the game's text, dubbing or subtitling audio and video content, adapting the game's content to suit cultural preferences, adjusting the game's pricing and distribution, and adapting the game's marketing campaigns. These efforts ensure that games are accessible to players worldwide and contribute to the industry's growth and success.