10 Tips to Get a Job in The Game Localization Industry

With a growing demand for localized content in the gaming industry, the interest in the localization industry career is also getting higher. So, how to get a job in game localization? For you who want to experience more than just a gaming experience, getting a job in this industry would be a dream come true.

However, it’s important to note at first place that the game localization industry needs more than a game-savvy person but also a linguist. You need to be knowledgeable about the language and culture of the region that the publisher is trying to tap into.

Further, starting a career in a field that generates so much enthusiasm would be challenging. But with the right start, you’ll have your way more prepared to get a job in game localization. This article will share tips on how to get a job in the game localization industry. Let’s dive in!

1. Develop Multilingual Proficiency

Getting a job in the game localization industry can be started by being multilingual. This is not just a valuable asset to break into this field but also a necessity. You should be fluent in multiple languages, especially in the top popular game localization languages, such as English, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish.

Start by honing your skills in your native language to ensure that you have a strong command of grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. Then, consider adding one or more foreign languages to your repertoire.

The more languages you are proficient in, the more versatile you become as a game localizer. It also means that you have more job opportunities available to you.

A multilingual can work on a variety of projects, considering the language they can cover. That said, projects for localization services from different regions and language markets would be more accessible.

2. Play Video Games

In many cases, game localization agencies tend to look for translators who are also game-savvy. This is without meaningful consideration. To effectively adapt video games for global audiences, translators need an in-depth understanding of how games work.

Therefore, having someone who can effectively understand the difference in mechanics, storytelling, and gameplay elements from one game to another would be helpful. To start getting a job in game localization, try to play some video games and get used to it.

Playing a wide variety of games can help familiarize translators with different genres, styles, and platforms. Moreover, this hands-on experience allows them to appreciate the nuances of game localization, understand the context of in-game content, and adapt it effectively. Furthermore, it makes it easier to identify any cultural or linguistic issues that may arise during the localization process.

3. Decide Between Freelancer or In-House Employment

Basically, there are two options to get a job in the game localization industry. When considering a game localization job, it's important to decide whether you want to work as a freelancer or as an in-house employee. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. Freelancer Working as a freelance game localizer allows for more flexibility and independence. You can choose the projects, set your own working hours, and often work from the comfort of your own space.

Freelancers typically have a diverse client base, working on various games for different companies. This offers a wide range of experiences and opportunities to build a reputation in the industry.

However, freelancers are responsible for their own administrative tasks, such as finding clients, managing contracts, and handling finances which are quite difficult for some people. Not to mention that freelancers should have a strong work ethic and self-discipline to succeed in their careers.

Read also: 10 Steps to Becoming a Professional Translator In-House Employee On the other hand, becoming an in-house employee at a game development studio, localization agency, or a larger gaming company provides stability and a regular income.

In-house employees often have access to additional resources and support from their employers, including professional development opportunities and collaborative work environments.

The downside may be a more structured work schedule and less flexibility in choosing projects. In-house positions can range from translators and editors to project managers and quality assurance testers.

4. Network and Connect

In many kinds of jobs in the world, networking plays a crucial role in successfully achieving a dream career. This also applies to getting a job in the game localization industry. Building a network of contacts in the game localization industry can be invaluable for your career.

Try to attend industry events, conferences, webinars, and participate in online forums and social media groups related to game localization. Not only you can connect with people with the same interests as you, but networking can also be a good way to share knowledge and experiences with one another.

Connecting with professionals in the field can provide you with valuable insights, knowledge of job openings, and potential collaborations. Not to mention that building these connections can also lead to recommendations, which can make a significant difference in a competitive job market.

5. Understand Cultural Sensitiveness

Game localization involves more than just translating text. It's about adapting content to different cultures and making them appealing to the target players in that region. This requires a deep understanding of the cultural norms, values, and preferences of the regions you are localizing for.

Being culturally sensitive is essential to avoid unintentional offense and ensure a smooth gaming experience for players worldwide. Therefore, before starting a project, try to do in-depth research about the language and culture.

Familiarizing yourself with cultural practices, taboos, and sensitivities in various target markets will help you make informed decisions during the localization process, ultimately creating a more enjoyable and relatable gaming experience for players.

6. Improve Your Translation Skills

A strong translation skill is a crucial part of how to get a job in the localization industry. Translation isn’t just changing words from one language to another. It carries meanings that should be delivered appropriately from the source to the target language.

Moreover, translating wouldn’t work without practice. You should keep honing your translation skills by taking a course or even getting a degree. It will help you understand the translation principles, linguistic nuances, and translation tools.

7. Familiarize Yourself with Localization Tools

When you get a job in the localization industry, you need to use certain tools to help increase productivity and increase efficiency. There are specific tools and software that professionals use to streamline the localization process.

Computer-assisted translation (CAT) tools are common examples of such software. These tools not only assist in translating and adapting game content but also help manage translation memory, glossaries, and collaborative efforts among localization teams.

Learning how to effectively use these tools is crucial to work efficiently, meet deadlines, and maintain consistency in translated content.

Read also: Machine Translation and Neural Networks in Game Localization: Leveraging Automation and Human Expertise

8. Gain Experience

To establish yourself as a credible game localizer, you need hands-on experience. Start by offering your services to indie game developers, volunteering for localization projects, starting an internship program, or working on personal projects.

That practice will open more opportunities to meet individuals in the game localization field and establish connections that may potentially pave the way for other prospects, such as getting a localization job.

Moreover, these experiences allow you to build a portfolio showcasing your skills and previous work. Potential employers often look for practical experience when considering candidates. So, your portfolio will be a key asset when applying for a game localization career.

9. Stay Updated

The gaming industry is ever-evolving, and so is the localization process. To get a job in game localization, you need to stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and news. This demonstrates your commitment to the field and your ability to adapt to new challenges.

It is essential to maintain your competitive edge by learning about the latest gaming platforms, understanding the impact of emerging technologies like augmented reality or virtual reality, or staying informed about changes in the industry's best practices.

10. Create a Strong Resume and Portfolio

A resume and portfolio are the primary tools to showcase your skills and previous work. A well-structured resume should highlight language skills, translation experience, and any specific game localization projects you've worked on.

It's essential to present your qualifications and experience clearly, making it easy for potential employers to assess your suitability for the job. Additionally, include a link to your portfolio, where employers can see samples of your work.

This portfolio should contain examples of best translations, showing the ability to adapt content while maintaining quality and cultural sensitivity. It's worth noting that a portfolio is often the first impression employers will have of your work, so it's essential to make it impressive and accessible.

Wrapping Up

In the end, breaking into the game localization industry requires a combination of language skills, cultural awareness, and technical proficiency. If you are passionate about getting a job in the localization industry, you can follow these ten tips to increase opportunities in securing a job in this dynamic field. That can be the start of a rewarding career as a game localizer.

With the fast-growing demand, there is no way for passionate translators couldn't find a job in game localization. You can always find any hiring announcement on platforms, like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glints.

Your passion for gaming and linguistic expertise will not only open doors to exciting job opportunities but also contribute to making games accessible and enjoyable for a diverse global audience. So, what are you waiting for? Arm yourself and be determined to start a career in this field.

Read also: Value of Translations Job in Today's World