Urban Myths About Game Localization

Game publishers often use localization as an excuse for delays and costs, while hardcore gamers find reasons to dismiss translations. Translators, who remain mostly invisible, become convenient scapegoats. Below are some persistent myths about game localization, debunked.

1. Game Localization Makes Games More Expensive

Localizing a small casual game like Bejeweled (3,000 words) to one language costs around 300 euros. A game like Someday You'll Return (47,869 words) costs approximately 4,790 euros. For a more extensive game such as Punch Club 2 (102,465 words), the cost is about 10,250 euros. A text-heavy title like Shadow Tactics: The Cursed Crew (189,666 words) will set you back roughly 18,970 euros. Considering the volume of sales even niche games achieve in regions like Holland and Belgium, these costs are a fraction of the revenue generated. Localization enables developers to reach broader audiences, making it a smart investment rather than a prohibitive expense.

2. Game Localization Delays Game Releases

Localizing a small game like Bejeweled takes 1.5 working days, while a large-scale title like Shadow Tactics: The Cursed Crew requires about 95 working days. However, localization is typically carried out simultaneously with game development, causing no delays if properly planned. In fact, it often runs parallel to other production tasks, ensuring seamless integration into release schedules.

3. Hardcore Gamers Speak English at a Native Level

Many hardcore gamers claim they don’t need translations, asserting their English is native-level. However, this is often an overestimation. In reality, even self-proclaimed experts demonstrate notable linguistic errors, as seen in some gaming forums. Their exaggerated confidence is often misplaced, and overlooking translations alienates players who benefit from localized content.

4. Hardcore Gamers Play Games in English to Learn the Language

Gamers often argue that playing in English teaches the language. Ironically, many learned English by reading subtitles in their native language. Removing these subtitles undermines learning opportunities for new players, especially those at early stages of language acquisition. Translation creates a bridge, not a barrier.

5. Hardcore Gamers Want to Stay Close to the Original Language

This myth is contradicted by preferences for English over original languages, such as German in Anno 1701. The preference is often more about social perception than authenticity. Players frequently conflate "original" with "familiar," sidelining the actual source language of many games. Here you can read more about the anchoring effect observed when Chinese gamers discovered that the trailer for The Witcher 4 was dubbed in Chinese.

6. Hardcore Gamers Dislike Translations Because They’re Bad

While poor translations can cause frustration, quality translations are often disliked regardless of their merits. The critique frequently stems from a desire to maintain exclusivity within gaming culture, rather than objective flaws in the translations themselves.

7. Only the [fill in nationality] Hate Game Translations

This phenomenon is not unique. Gamers in countries like Germany, France, Spain and even China express similar sentiments, rooted in a desire for cultural distinction within gaming. Localization challenges exist worldwide, reflecting diverse attitudes toward language in gaming.

8. Hardcore Gamers Represent the Majority of Gamers

Despite their vocal presence, hardcore gamers are a minority. Casual gamers make up the majority of the market, often valuing accessibility over exclusivity. This is evidenced by the success of games like Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games, which performed well despite hardcore criticism.

9. Translations Are Always Bad

Like any service, translation quality depends on investment and expertise. Cheap solutions yield poor results, but professional localization ensures high-quality outcomes. High-quality translations enhance immersion, proving that localization is worth the effort.

10. All Reviewers Love Loekalization's Translations

While many appreciate quality translations, some hardcore reviewers are biased against them. Casual gamers, however, often enjoy and benefit from well-executed localizations. Success is measured by audience engagement, not the opinions of a vocal minority.

Conclusion:

Localization is essential for making games accessible to diverse audiences. Developers should embrace options that allow players to choose their preferred language settings. Catering to casual gamers while addressing hardcore gamer concerns ensures broader market success and inclusivity. By recognizing the needs of a global audience, developers can foster a more inclusive gaming experience for all.