Video game localization

Video game localization (or computer game localisation), is the process of preparing a video game for a market outside of where it was originally published. The game's name, art assets, packaging, manuals, and cultural and legal differences are typically altered.

Before localization, producers consider economic factors such as potential foreign profit.[1] Most official localizations are done by the game's developers or a third-party translation company. Nevertheless, fan localizations are also popular.

Localization is largely inconsistent between platforms, engines and companies due to its recency. Localizers intend to create an experience like the original game, with discretion to the localization audience. Localizations are considered to have failed if they are confusing or difficult to understand; this may break the player's immersion.[1][2]

Screenshot of SuperTuxKart Game localized to Polish
  1. ^ a b Bernal-Merino 2008
  2. ^ Kohler 2005, p. 226