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Japanese Video Games Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site +1

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry. * Excellent verbal/written ... Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 certification or equivalent capability. Applicants ...

Nintendo

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry. * Excellent verbal/written ... Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 certification or equivalent capability. Applicants ...

Sega of America

Editor I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Stay current with video game trends, game terminology, first-party naming conventions, and relevant subcultures. * Solve localization challenges by finding effective English equivalents for Japanese ...

SEGA OF AMERICA INC

Editor I

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$30/hr

Stay current with video game trends, game terminology, first-party naming conventions, and relevant subcultures. * Solve localization challenges by finding effective English equivalents for Japanese ...

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All JobsJapanese Video Games Jobs

Japanese Video Games information

See salary details

$61.5K

$127K

How much do japanese video games jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for japanese video games in the United States is $123,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,000.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Japanese Video Games vs Japanese Game Developers?

AspectJapanese Video GamesJapanese Game Developers
Primary FocusEnd products (games)Creating and designing games
Work EnvironmentGame studios, development teamsDesign studios, programming teams
Required CredentialsKnowledge of game design, programming, artSkills in programming, art, design, project management
Industry UsageMarketed and sold as productsEmployed within companies to develop games

Japanese Video Games refer to the final products created for consumers, while Japanese Game Developers are the professionals who design, develop, and produce these games. The former is the end result, and the latter is the workforce behind it. Understanding this distinction helps clarify career paths and industry roles in Japan's gaming industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Japanese Video Game Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Japanese Video Game Developer, you need strong programming abilities, knowledge of game design principles, and often a relevant degree in computer science or game development. Familiarity with industry-standard engines like Unity or Unreal, proficiency in languages such as C++ or C#, and experience with Japanese localization tools are typically required. Creativity, collaboration, and cross-cultural communication skills help developers succeed in team environments and create engaging content for diverse audiences. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality, culturally relevant games that resonate both in Japan and internationally.

What are Japanese video games?

Japanese video games are games developed by companies based in Japan or produced by Japanese creators. These games are known for their unique art styles, storytelling, innovative gameplay mechanics, and influential franchises such as Super Mario, Final Fantasy, and Pokémon. Japanese video games span across a variety of genres including role-playing games (RPGs), fighting games, action-adventure, and puzzle games. They have had a significant impact on the global gaming industry and often reflect aspects of Japanese culture and aesthetics.

What are some common challenges when working on Japanese video game localization teams?

One common challenge in Japanese video game localization is bridging cultural and language differences to ensure that the game's story, humor, and context resonate with international audiences while preserving the creator's intent. Team members frequently collaborate with translators, developers, and cultural consultants to adapt content appropriately. Tight deadlines and iterative feedback cycles are also typical, requiring strong communication skills and flexibility. Successfully navigating these challenges can be highly rewarding and offers valuable experience for career advancement in the global gaming industry.
More about Japanese Video Games jobs
What cities are hiring for Japanese Video Games jobs? Cities with the most Japanese Video Games job openings:
What states have the most Japanese Video Games jobs? States with the most job openings for Japanese Video Games jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Japanese Video Games jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Japanese Video Games jobs are:
Japanese Video Games jobs near you
Infographic showing various Japanese Video Games job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $123,552 per year, or $59.4 per hour.
CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

CONTRACT - Translator (Japanese)

Nintendo

Redmond, WA • On-site, Remote

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Other

Posted 20 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

Nintendo of America

About Nintendo of America: From the launch of the Nintendo Entertainment System more than 30 years ago, Nintendo's mission has been to create smiles through unique entertainment experiences. Here at Nintendo of America Inc., we deliver on this mission by partnering closely with Nintendo Co., Ltd., to bring Nintendo's iconic and cherished franchises including Mario, Donkey Kong, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, Animal Crossing, Pikmin and Splatoon across the Americas through our video games, hardware systems, and collaborations with partners on a range of other entertainment initiatives like feature films and theme parks.

Based in Redmond, Wash., Nintendo of America serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Americas. We are an equal opportunity employer offering a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to one another, our products, and the diverse consumers and communities we call home. For more information about Nintendo, please visit the company's website at https://www.nintendo.com/. 

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

  • Translates confidential e-mail and other written documentation from Japanese to English, and English to Japanese.
  • Provides verbal interpretation for meetings and conference calls.
  • Chooses the equivalent expression in the target language that fully conveys and best matches the meaning intended in the source language (referred to as congruity judgment).
  • May manage various communication tools and database and contributes to improve usability and efficiency.
  • Creates translation workflow manuals and updates accordingly to department changes.
  • Receives briefings or prepares through reading and study on subject to be discussed prior to interpreting session.
  • May act as liaison with Japanese developers and assists in scheduling and planning.
  • Coordinates with internal and external groups on project management and short to long-term planning.
  • Performs all job responsibilities in strict adherence to corporate prototype security policy and procedures.
  • Provides excellent customer service to internal and external contacts.
  • The scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS:
  • Two to four years of related experience required.
  • Two years of translation experience.
  • Native level in verbal and written communication in English and Japanese.
  • Intermediate to high level of proficiency in MS Office applications.
  • Excellent understanding of Japanese business culture and etiquette.
  • Extensive knowledge of video game software/hardware and industry.
  • Excellent verbal/written communication and relationship-building skills, problem-solving and cross-function collaboration.
  • Interpretation experience strongly preferred.
  • Multi-tasks under pressure in a fast-paced, highly confidential environment with fluctuating priorities and deadlines.
  • Requires working knowledge and skills developed through formal training, licensing/certification or work experience.
  • Requires established skills to perform a range of routine activities; this may include application of administrative or analytical/technical skills.
  • Professional training in Translation/Interpretation or equivalent experience.
  • Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N1 certification or equivalent capability.

Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States to be considered. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

This position is hybrid in Redmond, WA. Hybrid positions require regular onsite work following the schedule and guidelines for their division. This position is not open to fully remote status at this time.

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