5 Steps to Prepare a Mobile Game for Localization

As soon as one starts thinking about expanding one’s mobile game internationally, the localization matters instantly come to mind. Do not let this odd word frighten you since it is an interesting process that will always reward you with a new target audience if you do it right. Firstly, localization is not equal to translation! It would be correct to approach it as an adjustment of the user interface and some gaming aspects that would feel right at home with the foreign audience. Of course, it is a time-consuming process, yet it will instantly become easier if you plan things in advance and consider some technical parts that will make sense to most mobile game developers.

5 Steps to Make Your Mobile Game Localization Process Easier

1. Adjust Your Interface For Potential Language Additions. Starting with the pre-installing of code elements for the language-related aspects and the flexibility of your mobile bootstrap elements to GUI scalability issues, think about doing it all to make your mobile content as much localization-friendly as it can be. While you will make some additions in the process, think about how to explain your code to fellow specialists. Always discuss your limitations and requirements before any work starts!
2. Avoid Hard-Coding Strings For Localization. It is best to avoid using the hard-coded strings for your localization purposes because your data will be lost within the translation’s environment. The best is to leave every string that must be edited without changing the initial code. The localization must focus on translation aspects alone without having to engineer the code once again. Starting with your Locale preparation to formatting of the strings, you will be able to rearrange words within your existing templates.
3. Translating Your Unique Content List. Make the list of all unique numbers and things like character names to check it upon completion. Since it does not belong to any translation memory tool or a dictionary, check these parts twice.
4. Preparing Official Game Documentation and Legal Terms. Do not forget about translating your company’s documents and game manuals if you want to expand towards foreign markets. Check the best online translation services to determine the prices and the benefits of working with a certified translator. Remember that any official document will require a certificate of authenticity.
5. Minimize Text in Images. It will always depend on your game’s structure and the graphics amount that you have, yet it is recommended to decrease the number of images with the text inside. As a rule, all the graphics that contain any text will have to be localized as well, which is one of the most time-consuming processes since it will require the work of the graphic designer. It must be noted that some words in a foreign language may become much longer even for a simple phrase!

Not Everything Must Be Translated!

While it may sound obvious to you now, remember that some parts of your mobile game must remain the way it is without localization or adjustment of any kind. Since some gaming slang is international, it is only natural to leave it without changes. Make sure to discuss this matter with your localization expert and check things twice upon completion. Discuss the game, make the context clearer, and be the first person to talk even when you are not asked to explain anything.

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