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Japan Game Localization Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sony Corporation

Localization Translator

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... Japan. The company's ever-growing line-up of shows include: March comes in like a lion, Blue ... A minimum of 1-3 years of relevant localization experience OR a minimum of 1-3 years of video game ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$118K - $120K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Charleston, SC · On-site

$116K - $117K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · Remote

$126K - $129K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Charleston, SC · Remote

$126K - $129K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site +1

$118K - $120K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Charleston, SC · On-site +1

$116K - $117K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

Side

Games Producer- Talent Pool

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site +1

$118K - $120K/yr

Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has ... include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization ...

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Japan Game Localization information

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How much do japan game localization jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for japan game localization in the United States is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Japan Game Localization Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Japan Game Localization Specialist, you need advanced proficiency in both Japanese and the target language, a deep understanding of gaming culture, and experience with translation or localization processes. Familiarity with localization software tools (such as memoQ or SDL Trados), CAT tools, and sometimes programming basics are highly valuable, along with any relevant certifications in translation. Strong communication, cultural sensitivity, and attention to detail help ensure that game content resonates authentically with the target audience. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering seamless, engaging player experiences and maintaining the game's original intent across cultures.

What is Japan game localization?

Japan game localization is the process of adapting video games developed in Japan for audiences in other regions, ensuring that language, cultural references, and gameplay elements are appropriately translated and modified. This involves not only translating text but also adjusting graphics, audio, and in-game content to suit the target market. The goal is to provide players with an experience that feels natural and engaging, as if the game was originally developed for their region.

What is the difference between Japan Game Localization vs Japan Game Translator?

AspectJapan Game LocalizationJapan Game Translator
Primary RoleAdapts and modifies game content for the Japanese market, including cultural adjustments, UI, and voice-over coordination.Translates game text and dialogue from one language to Japanese, focusing on accuracy and language flow.
Skills & CertificationsLanguage proficiency, cultural knowledge, basic understanding of game development tools.Fluency in source and Japanese language, translation certifications (e.g., ATA), and linguistic skills.
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with developers, designers, and voice actors; often in game studios or localization companies.Primarily individual work, often remote, with focus on translation and editing tasks.

While both roles require strong Japanese language skills, Japan Game Localization involves adapting entire game experiences for the Japanese audience, including cultural and technical adjustments. Japan Game Translators focus mainly on translating game text and dialogue accurately. Both roles are essential in bringing games to Japanese players but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Japan game localization, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Japan game localization often encounter challenges such as adapting cultural references, humor, and idioms to make them understandable and engaging for a global audience. Additionally, they must balance preserving the original game's intent with ensuring the translated content flows naturally in the target language. Collaborating closely with developers, writers, and quality assurance teams helps address these challenges, as does maintaining open communication to clarify ambiguities. Staying updated with gaming trends and regional preferences also enhances localization quality.
Infographic showing various Japan Game Localization job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 25% As Needed, 24% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,769 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
Manager, Localization - English Writing

Manager, Localization - English Writing

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Nintendo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 188 rated software companies

Job description

Job Summary:
Nintendo of America is a leader in the entertainment industry, known for its iconic franchises. They are seeking a Manager for Localization to oversee the adaptation of products for the North American and Latin American markets, manage a team, and ensure effective communication with Japanese development teams.
Responsibilities:
• Manages localization of Nintendo products from the Japanese to the North American and Latin American markets.
• Makes recommendations based on knowledge of Nintendo Of Europe (NOE) market needs.
• Works with the Planning team and Localization Management to help develop schedules and coordinate workflow with other localization team members.
• Tracks project spend, alerting the management team if deadlines or budget is at risk.
• Coordinates and owns biannual budget updates for Comprehensive projects.
• Investigates and implements feature enhancements to Localization Support Platform tool, including but not limited to actual coding.
• Works with Management and project teams in creating and coordinating Post Mortem meetings and reports.
• Manages team of writer/editors or translators under heavy workloads in fast-paced environment.
• Manages contractors as needed.
• Occasionally manages outsourcing of game text and scripts as needed.
• Recommends adaptations and changes to make products more appealing for North American and Latin American markets.
• Manages development of game scripts, voice actor casting, and voice recording process.
• Provides detailed and summary reports to upper management regarding localization status and changes.
• Builds and maintains strong working relationships with Japanese development teams and with other Nintendo Company Limited (NCL) subsidiaries.
• Communicates products strengths and features to upper management and other departments including Marketing and Corporate Communications.
• Acts as spokesperson for Nintendo by presenting games to media, participating in interviews, presenting on live streams, and supporting other promotional efforts.
• Monitors and evaluates performance, provides feedback, guidance, development, training and task direction to assigned staff.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Minimum of six (6) years of related experience required.
• One to two years in a supervisory capacity.
• Ability to manage a team of writers or translators under heavy workloads in fast-paced environment.
• Strong awareness and understanding of Japanese, US, French-Canadian or Latin American localization issues and market preferences.
• Ability to communicate effectively with international contacts.
• Ability to make recommendations regarding cultural/localization issues for software.
• Ability to grasp and preserve the creative vision for products during the localization process.
• Experience in audio production required.
• Thorough knowledge of Nintendo properties, products, and history.
• Ability to communicate product features and details and to present products effectively.
• Valid passport may be required for international travel.
• Manages a team of professional individual contributors and/or supervisors.
• Applies understanding of the business and how own area integrates with others to achieve departmental objectives.
• Internal software development experience.
• Understanding of network systems (including Subversion and Proxies).
• Knowledge of Windows applications.
• Undergraduate degree in English, Creative Writing, or equivalent.
Preferred:
• Experience in collaboration tools a plus.
Company:
Nintendo is a Japanese multinational consumer electronics company that develops game consoles. It is a sub-organization of Nintendo Japan. Founded in 1980, the company is headquartered in Los Angeles, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

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