As the gaming industry heads toward its projection of exceeding $200 billion by 2023, gaming companies can be a part of this tremendous growth by localizing their entertainment products. Because the expense of game localization can vary greatly, it is important to consider each of the options that are available and select the one that meets budget requirements, while making certain that the localization is a success.
What Are the Options?
There are four primary options that are available for game localization, with the cost depending on a variety of factors, such as whether the localization will be done professionally, the scope of the project, and the language pair. Regardless of the choice, it is important to keep in mind that each possibility can affect the outcome of the localization project, so careful consideration should be given before selecting a service.
These localization options are:
- Free game localization applications. There are a number of no-cost options available, including using a software that will plug Google Translate into a game, allowing text to be translated and localized. However, this option is not ideal since the translated content will lack context. Additionally, there are open-source spreadsheet options that localize gaming terminology into several languages. Overall, because these no-cost options have limited capabilities, they are most suited for games that need an initial localization, before turning the project over to a game translation agency.
- Crowdsourcing and fan translation. If a game that has a sizeable fan base in other languages, this could be a low-cost possibility. Crowdsourcing involves putting together a team of users to help translate a game. The primary downside is that chances are high that the project will not get a completely thorough and accurate translation.
- Freelance gaming translators. Freelance translators are a consideration for just about any translation project, including game localization. While a freelancer might offer good rates, check their portfolio and credentials to make sure they can handle all aspects of the game localization and that they have a quality assurance plan in place.
- Game localization agency. By using a reputable professional localization service, a gaming company can be certain that the work will be done with precision. Although this option might sound costly, a game translation company can work within a specified budget to meet the needs of the client. Select a company that specializes in game localization, instead of opting for just a general translation business.
The Benefits Far Outweigh the Costs
When deciding on one of the above options, it might be tempting to select one of the free or low-cost possibilities. While that could work for the project, remember that quality should not be compromised because of the expense. Ultimately, a solid localization will generate more sales, making the investment worth the cost.
Consider these benefits of a top-notch localization:
- Exponentially increase sales. By entering a new global market, game sales will soar.
- Attain a competitive edge. As a company localizes its game, the stronger its competitive advantage will become.
- Boost the number of downloads. As sales increase, downloads will also surge, ensuring that the game grows in popularity.
- Receive a higher ranking in app stores, which also generates more sales.
- Achieve stronger user satisfaction, particularly because users will better understand and relate to the game.
A Snapshot of the Global Gaming Market
The video game market is continuing to surge across the globe; the top 10 markets are: China, the United States, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, India, France, Russia, Germany, and Mexico.
Perhaps most notable is that:
- In 2017, Japan’s total gaming revenue grew 13% from 2016, and the country experienced the highest game revenue per internet user.
- In 2017, China had one-third of the total gaming revenue worldwide with an approximate $32.54 billion.
- In 2021, there are approximately 48 billion gamers throughout Asia, making it the biggest video gaming market across the globe.
How WinZO Capitalized on the Indian Market
With India securing its place in the top ten gaming markets, it makes sense that Delhi-based company WinZO became a quick sensation. The gaming and entertainment platform brings together users to play multiplayer versions of a variety of popular games in more than ten regional languages. Through its micro-transaction feature, gamers can win small monetary rewards as they play the games.
One of the key aspects of WinZO is that it builds a community of players who can interact and compete with one another. Additionally, it personalizes game selections based on a user’s gaming preferences.
The rapid success of WinZO shows how much growth potential there is in the gaming industry. By partnering with an experienced game localization services company, gaming businesses can experience the expansion that can come with a successful localization.
Summary
As the gaming industry heads toward its projection of exceeding $200 billion by 2023, gaming companies can be a part of the growth by localizing their products. The expense of game localization can vary, so it is important to select a service that meets budget requirements, while making certain that the localization is a success.
