Translation And Localisation In Video Games

This book is a multidisciplinary study of the translation and localisation of video games. It offers a descriptive analysis of the industry - understood as a global phenomenon in entertainment - and aims to explain the norms governing present industry practices, as well as game localisation processes. Additionally, it discusses particular translation issues that are unique to the multichannel nature of video games, in which verbal and nonverbal signs must be cohesively combined with interactivity to achieve maximum playability and immerse players in the game's virtual world. Although positioned within the theoretical framework of descriptive translation studies, Bernal-Merino incorporates research from audiovisual translation, software localisation, computer assisted translation, comparative literature, and video game production. Moving beyond this framework, Translation and Localisation in Video Games challenges some of the basic tenets of translation studies and proposes changes to established and unsatisfactory processes in the video game and language services industries. Review: 'Translation and Localisation in Video Games: Making Entertainment Software Global is an excellent analysis of a specialist area within the digital entertainment field. The book gives an accurate description of how localization happens within the industry, and at the same time provides background and context for students so they can understand how the industry has evolved over the past 30 years. An informative read for students, academics and professionals alike who are already involved or who are interested in entering the video game/digital entertainment translation space.'-Flavia Timiani, Director, International Production, Disney Interactive 'While game localisation accounts for significant percentage of global game industry revenue, very few texts have explored not only the process but the sheer impact of this discipline. Dr. Bernal-Merino provides us with arguably one of the most insightful commentaries on the inner workings of game localisation, particularly from a translator's perspective, and clearly demonstrates his years of expertise. His detailed exploration of the topic is much needed and appreciated, and I can easily see this work becoming standard, required reading for anyone aspiring to simply understand game localisation and/or work in this field.'-Kate Edwards, Executive Director, International Game Developers Association 'Miguel Bernal-Merino's book Translation and Localisation in Video Games provides a comprehensive picture of the relatively young field of video game localisation. In this snapshot of the current localisation practices in an incredibly fast-moving industry, he outlines what sets video game localisation apart from other areas of the localisation industry and draws attention to the complexities that need to be dealt with as well as the pressure on timing, cost and confidentiality. Bernal-Merino presents the scientific nature of localization that he argues calls for the need for more investment into academic education supported by industry professionals. He highlights the need to introduce standard practices and terminology for video game localization to professionalise the field and create the next generation of localization professionals that are better prepared for the multiple challenges of this area.'-Michaela Bartelt, Sr. Director, Worldwide Localization, Electronic Arts 'It is not uncommon for dynamic industries to lack of a structured representation of their practices. After two decades of stunning evolution video games publishing is becoming a widespread and mature industry. A reference text was definitely needed to analyse and contextualise the translation activities that form the basis of global interactive entertainment. Translation and Localisation in Video Games is the first book to connect translation studies for the media and the video games industry. This text sets a standard as it provides a systematic description of the principles, activities and issues involved in translating for video game