What is video game localization?

Video game localization is a necessary part of the sale and creation of video games when a company wants to sell in foreign markets—different countries and cultures have different laws and regulations on portrayals of things like violence, symbols, and historical figures. As a member of a localization team, your duties are to assist in the translation of a work not just from one language to another, but also ensure it is appropriate to the audience, culture, and legal framework of the country in which the game will be sold. Video game localization requires sociologists, anthropologists, historians, artists, and technical support workers with specialized knowledge to collaborate together in preparation for international release. These specialists’ responsibilities include reviewing or developing instruction manuals, ensuring programmers or developers modify gameplay to meet local or regional standards or laws, and ensure all artwork is specific and relevant to audiences.