3 Keys for Successful Game Localization David Lakritz Language Automation, Inc. October 5, 2011
Outline Brasilian Game Market Success Factors The Iron Triangle of Localization The Three Keys Best Practices Future Directions Conclusions
Overview of Brasilian Game Market
Data: Newzoo BV
Worldwide Online Game Market ($B) Data: DFC, PWC (extrapolated)
Worldwide Online Game Market ($B) Data: DFC, PWC (extrapolated) 11% CAGR
Worldwide Online Game Market ($B) Data: DFC, PWC (extrapolated) 11% CAGR 20% CAGR Brasil
Data: DFC, Point Topic (extrapolated) World Broadband Households (millions)
Data: DFC, Point Topic (extrapolated) World Broadband Households (millions)
Increasing market More non-English speakers coming online Enhanced gameplaying experience Why Localize for Brasil?
Increasing market More non-English speakers coming online Enhanced gameplaying experience Competition!!!
Success Factors Adaptation / Culturalization / Transcreation Good storytelling (esp. for MMOs) Proper & consistent use of gaming language Frequent updates to keep gamers returning
The Iron Triangle of Localization Cost Quality Schedule
The Iron Triangle of Localization Cost Quality Schedule BALANCE!
The Three Keys
Key #1: Team
Your localization vendor and beyond
Key #2: Process
Getting the localization done
Key #3: Communication
Communicating with the team
The Three Keys: Best Practices Balancing cost/quality/schedule
Dependency Matrix CostQualitySchedule Team Process Communication
Team Choose your vendor carefully Experience Testing/Evaluation Vendor as part of the team
Process Start early Plan for change Tools Scaleability Streamline & automate
Communication Communicate requirements clearly Provide information & feedback Reply promptly to queries Set clear expectations Avoid adding unnecessary layers to the interface
Future Directions in Game Localization
Current Trends/Issues Faster, more frequent releases More languages Mismatch between content producers and L10N vendors
Impact Missed schedules Higher cost Lower quality Burnout
Responsiveness to Change! Key Factor
Responsiveness to Change! Agile Methodologies Key Factor
Dictionary Definition Agility is the ability to respond effectively to change.
Team Expand Engage Empower
Process Streamline Deliver often Encourage feedback
Communication Collaborate Disseminate Participate
Summary: The 3 Keys Team Process Communication
Conclusions Focus on the three keys to balance quality, cost and schedule Choose your localization vendor carefully Tools can help automate/streamline the process Think of your vendor as part of the team Consider agile methodologies to help manage change
Q & A David Lakritz Language Automation, Inc.