Localization refers to the process by which content is adapted to fit the cultural and legal dimensions of target markets. This process is especially important in the gaming industry. Here’s how video game localization services from an experienced language service provider can aid the global expansion of your player base.
An Overview Of The Gaming Market
The world’s first true video game was made in the 1960’s by a group of MIT students who accepted a challenge by the university to create a demonstration program using the school’s privately owned PDP-1 computer. Because of their creation, video games now play an integral part within our society all over the world today, as there are currently more than 3 billion game users as of 2023. In addition, the expected market growth value of the industry is expected to surpass $300 billion in the next five years.
While there are is an innumerable number of games currently available on the market, the world’s top five largest video game companies by revenue come from only three countries: the United States, Japan, and China. With some of the world’s most popular video games originating from abroad, it is important to understand how global users gain access to these games through the efforts of translation and localization services.
Restricted Borders And Video Game Localization
When a company wishes to reach a wider audience for their video game and dip into global markets, there are a multitude of organizations who oversee the video game regulations for a specific country or region that need to be addressed. For example, the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) along with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with Executive Order 99.3 of Gaming Regulation and Regulatory Overview governs international and domestic video games in the U.S.. However, there is no mention of a localization requirement when entering or using the U.S. gaming market.
It is important to note that there may be different video game localization rules for every country’s market. For example, China, who has one of the highest market values for video games, has some of the strictest regulations for the importing of foreign games from outside sources. This includes every foreign game being published by a Chinese publisher, which required to be properly localized in order to enter the market. Therefore, while choosing to provide translation services for your game when applying to the global market might be optional for certain countries, the absence of high-quality localization services can lead to failed entrance into major markets.
The Benefits Of Providing Video Game Localization
There are an abundance of benefits that come with localizing your video game to reach a more global audience, such as increased engagement, increased downloads, increased sales, and even achieving a higher ranking on the Google Play and App Store. Here at Language Connections, we can help you with your business’s video game localization needs to ensure you are able to reach your target audiences abroad. With over 30 years of experience in the localization field, you can be assured that your business’ video game will reach the right audience abroad with our use of high-quality video game translation and localization services.
About Language Connections:
Language Connections is one of the top language service companies in the US. Over the last 30 years, we’ve focused on providing the best business translation services, interpreting services, as well as interpreter training and customized language training programs. In addition to top-tier corporate language training, we offer certified corporate interpreters and professional business translation services in 200+ languages. Our network includes linguists with backgrounds in all major industries. They’re ready to meet your needs, whether they’re for technical translation services, legal translation, government translation services, international development translation services, education translation services, life sciences translation, or something else. Reach out to us today for a free quote on our cost-efficient and timely translation services, interpreters, or other linguistic services.
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