When preparing a game for localization, having a well-structured game localization kit is essential. It helps translation teams work efficiently while preserving the identity of the game and consistency. Without a proper localization kit, even the best translators can struggle with consistency, translating dialogues, or maintaining the game’s unique style. Lucky for you, in this guide we will explore what a game localization kit is, why it is crucial, and how to prepare one effectively.
What Is a Game Localization Kit?
A game localization kit is a comprehensive set of materials and documentation that provides translators and localization teams with all the information and context they need to adapt a game into different languages. It ensures accuracy, consistency, and provides a clear picture of the game’s style and identity.
It typically includes:
- Your target audience
- Glossary and style guide
- Character descriptions and lore
- Visual references: screenshots or videos to provide context for dialogues and UI elements
- Technical details: information about file formats, character limits, and code restrictions
A well-prepared game localization kit ensures that translators understand the game as if they were part of the development team.
Is a Localization Kit Indispensable?
Absolutely. Translating a game without a localization kit would be like drawing a portrait of somebody that you’ve never seen.
What is it for?
A game localization kit can and will help translators maintain accuracy, consistency, preserving the game’s identity and will also save time and MONEY! Let’s see how.
Accuracy in Translation
Every word, sentence or saying can have completely different meanings based on context. A localization kit that includes plot points, character descriptions, lore explanation etc. will significantly reduce the chance of misunderstandings and errors.
Consistent Terminology Across the Game
Consistency might not sound like a big deal, but it is. If a weapon is called “Eternity Cannon” in one scene, it shouldn’t become “Infinity Gun” in another. The same way the date format can’t be MM/DD/YY in one instance and DD/MM/YY in another. These inconsistencies in terminology, character speech patterns, game UI or formatting can break immersion for players, and even confuse players. A localization kit helps maintain consistency by providing:
- A glossary of approved terms
- A style guide with tone and formatting rules
- Reference texts to ensure uniformity across all translations
A consistent translation creates a seamless experience for players, regardless of language.
Preserving the Game’s Identity
Each game has a unique tone, humor, and artistic vision that define its identity. Without a proper localization kit, translators may unintentionally alter jokes, references, or character personalities. By including clear guidelines on tone, humor and explaining the personalities of the characters, developers ensure that the game’s spirit remains intact in every language.
Saving Time and Costs
Preparing a game localization kit, not only will substantially increase the quality of the final result, but will also save you time and money in the long run. Imagine having to go back and having to change all the “Infinity Gun” into “Eternity Cannon” because the translator didn’t have a glossary and mistakenly translated the same weapon into two different names.
How to Prepare a Game Localization Kit
Collect All Game Texts and Assets
The first step in preparing a game localization kit is gathering all the translatable content, including:
- Dialogue scripts
- UI texts and menus
- Item descriptions
- Tutorial messages
- Any other in-game text
Ensure the text is well-structured, categorized, and provided in a format that translators can work with. Do not hardcode, please.
Create a Glossary and Style Guide
A glossary and style guide are critical components of consistency in game localization. These should include:
- Definitions of game-specific terminology
- Character names and their proper usage
- Formatting rules for numbers, dates, and measurements
- Tone and voice guidelines (e.g., should the dialogue be formal or casual?)
- Any specific preferences for capitalization, punctuation, and abbreviations
These resources act as a reference point for translators, ensuring the game’s linguistic identity remains uniform.
Provide Detailed Character and Story Backgrounds
Translators need to understand the game’s universe to adapt the dialogues correctly. Include:
- Character profiles with personality traits and speech styles
- Background lore and world-building details
- Notes on relationships between characters
For example, if a character speaks in a sarcastic tone, this should be noted to prevent translators from interpreting the dialogue too literally.
Include Visual and Contextual References
Words alone may not provide enough context for translators. Including visual references can prevent errors. Provide:
- Screenshots of in-game text placement
- Video playthroughs of dialogue-heavy scenes
- Explanations of animations or anything else that may affect the meaning of certain lines
Context is crucial in game localization, as it helps translators choose the right words and phrasing.
Explain Technical Requirements
Game localization often comes with character limits or special formatting rules. You should document:
- Character limits for UI elements
- Special placeholders (e.g., variables for player names or currency symbols)
- File formats and encoding requirements
- Any restrictions on text length due to game design
Ignoring these technical aspects can lead to translation overflow issues or broken code, which can be costly to fix.
Offer Clear Instructions and Communication Channels
A game localization kit isn’t complete without an online query sheet. Also, set up fast and efficient communication channels for questions and clarifications. Don’t forget:
- A dedicated chat group or forum to keep translators and client updated
- Regular check-ins with localization managers
- A shared document where questions and answers are logged (query sheet)
Open communication ensures smooth collaboration between developers and localization teams.
Conclusion
If you are aiming at achieving the best quality for your game’s localization, then a game localization kit must be a priority. It ensures that your game is consistent, accurate, cohesive and polished across all versions. Bonus point, you’ll save time and money. If you’re preparing your game for localization, investing in a well-structured localization kit is one of the best steps you can take. It’s the key to delivering a high-quality, immersive experience to players around the world.