Why Choose Loekalization for Chinese
Meet Paopao, a bright and determined young woman who was once a liúshǒu értóng (留守儿童), one of China’s “left-behind children.” At 14, she had dropped out of school due to her family’s circumstances, growing up like an orphan. My wife and I stepped in to fund her education, and through hard work, she graduated and entered university. Supporting her has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Because Paopao doesn’t speak English, I immersed myself in Chinese to communicate with her. This daily practice sharpened my understanding of the language and culture far beyond what textbooks could teach. It also transformed how I approach game localization.
Paopao excels at Wángzhě Róngyào (王者荣耀), a massively popular MOBA in China, and has beaten me countless times. Her competitive spirit reflects the dedication that drives me to fully understand the cultural nuances of gaming in China.
My hands-on experience with Chinese allows me to collaborate closely with translators, ensuring projects capture not just the words but the full cultural context. This dedication was evident in our work on Graveyard Keeper, which Gamecores praised as "excellent." Players even wondered if the original text had been written in Chinese—exactly the standard I aim for.
GCores: "Excellent Chinese localization."
Our localization for Graveyard Keeper was praised for its exceptional quality, resonating deeply with Chinese gamers.
Understanding the Chinese Gaming Market
Market Size and Spending Habits
China is the world's largest gaming market, offering unparalleled opportunities for developers:
- 650 million gamers and $45 billion in projected revenue as of 2022.
- While Chinese gamers spend less individually compared to Japanese gamers, their sheer numbers make up for it.
- Spending patterns show more frequent, smaller transactions rather than large purchases.
Cultural and political sensitivities significantly influence Chinese gamers' reception of games:
- Topics like Taiwan and the "Hundred Years of Humiliation" require careful handling to avoid backlash.
- Games showcasing traditional Chinese culture, like Black Myth: Wukong, resonate deeply with players and evoke national pride.
Chinese gamers are highly critical and provide detailed feedback:
- Reviews often cover aspects like gameplay mechanics, graphics, storyline, and localization quality.
- Gamers see reviews as a way to contribute to a game’s improvement, expecting tangible updates based on their feedback.
Mobile games dominate the Chinese gaming market:
- In 2022, mobile games accounted for 73% of total gaming revenue in China.
- The mobile gaming market has consistently outpaced PC gaming since 2016.
The gaming industry in China operates under strict government regulations:
- Measures like playtime limits for younger players affect game design and monetization strategies.
- Navigating these regulations requires expertise to ensure compliance while retaining game appeal.
Success Stories: Indie Developers Breaking Through
Despite challenges, indie developers can succeed in China. Graveyard Keeper by Lazy Bear Games is a prime example:
- Sold approximately 41,589 copies in China on Steam, generating €81,000 in revenue.
- Achieved this with a localization investment of €13,451, resulting in a profit of €67,548.
- Its humor and cultural sensitivity helped it overcome thematic risks, proving that even small studios can thrive with the right strategy.
Why Choose Us?
Our deep understanding of Chinese language, culture, and gaming preferences ensures your game resonates with Chinese audiences. Here’s why we stand out:
- Hands-on cultural immersion allows us to go beyond translation and capture the essence of your game.
- Proven success with games like Graveyard Keeper, praised for its exceptional localization quality.
- Experience navigating cultural sensitivities and regulatory challenges to bring your game to life in China.
With a market this large and players this discerning, success in China requires a localization partner who understands the nuances. Let’s work together to ensure your game thrives in the world’s biggest gaming market.