Top 15 Slang Words for Perfect Indonesian Game Translation

The game industry in Indonesia is booming! With the number of players growing out of their minds and an estimated >1.5 billion market size by 2027, the country presents a great opportunity for game developers around the world. However, merely translating your game into Bahasa Indonesia is not enough. You must have the trends—understanding the Indonesian slang to win the hearts of local players.

Slang is what gives life to any language, and it doesn't differ in the Indonesian gaming industry one bit. Using informal words and phrasal verbs adds character and connection that no straight translation will be able to replicate.

If you're serious about dominating the Indonesian gaming business, saddle up and master these top 15 slang words required for a successful Indonesian game translation:

1. Gokil (pronounced: go-kil)

Meaning: Crazy, wild, or just plain unbelievable. Usage: “Gokil” is the most popular Indonesian game translation that used to describe something insanely good or crazy fun. In the context of a game, you could use it to describe a wild event, a challenging level, or a powerful move. Example: "Lawan aku gokil banget! Skill-nya jago!" (My opponent is crazy good! They have amazing skills!)

2. Alay (pronounced: ah-lay)

Meaning: Definition: Over-the-top, exaggeration, or trying too hard. Usage: Alay is a term used to define one who is trying too hard, flashy, or a want-to-be. In the Indonesian game translation, this might depict a character or a situation that seems over-dramatic or exaggerated. Example: "Jangan alay deh, mainnya yang bener!" (Don't be such a noob, play properly!)

3. Santuy (pronounced: san-tooey)

Meaning: Relaxed or chill. Usage: “Santuy” is derived from the word "santai," which means relaxed. It’s used to describe a laid-back attitude. In gaming, it can be used to describe a leisurely playing style or a relaxing game mode. Example: "Gamenya susah? Santuy aja, nikmatin aja permainannya." (The game is difficult? Just relax and enjoy playing.)

4. Cupu (pronounced: choo-poo)

Meaning: Weak or inexperienced. Usage: "Cupu" is a popular Indonesian slang word that used to refer to someone who is not particularly skillful, especially when gaming. It’s the Indonesian equivalent of calling someone a noob. This is another term for a beginner or someone who's lacking in skill. It's less harsh than "alay" and can be used in a playful way. Example: "Tenang, semua orang cupu dulu kok. Tetap latihan ya!" (Don't worry, everyone was a beginner once. Keep practicing!)

5. Jujurly (pronounced: joo-joor-ly)

Meaning: Honestly. Usage: The word "jujurly" originated from an Indonesian netizen's post that was popular on X (formerly known as Twitter). The term "jujurly" combines two languages in one word: the basic form of honest and the suffix -ly. A playful twist on the word "jujur" (honest), jujurly is often used for emphasis when someone is being truthful or frank. It can add a humorous tone to in-game dialogue or player chat. Example: "Jujurly, level ini susah banget!" (Honestly, this level is super hard!)

6. GG (pronounced: Ge-Ge)

Meaning: Good Game. Usage: The next Indonesian game translation is “GG” (Good Game). This slang is a universal gaming term but is widely used in Indonesia as well. It’s a compliment to other players for a well-played game, regardless of the outcome. Example: "GG! Lawan yang tangguh!" (GG! A tough opponent!)

7. Mantul (pronounced: man-tool)

Meaning: Awesome or excellent. Usage: An abbreviation for "Mantap Betul"—which literally means "Really Cool" in Indonesian—this response is for a very strong approval or excitement. You finally won, you made a really cool strategy, or it simply looked awesome in-game. Example: "Skin barunya mantul banget! Pasti gw beli!" (The new skin is so cool! I'm definitely buying it!)

8. Kepo (pronounced: keh-poh)

8. Kepo (pronounced keh-poh).jpeg

Meaning: Nosy or curious. Usage: The term "kepo" is an acronym derived from the English phrase "knowing every particular object," which means knowing every specific object. "Kepo" is borrowed from Singlish (Singaporean English). Originating from the everyday Singaporean phrase "kaypoh," the term "kepo" is a borrowing from that meaning. A "kaypoh" is someone who has an insatiable need to meddle in the affairs of others. Additionally, it suggests that a person is more curious and thinks they should be knowledgeable about everything. Kepo refers to a person who is overly curious or nosy about things that do not concern him. In an Indonesian game translation, it sometimes can be used to describe some always-nosing character used to fish out information or explore. Example: "Jangan kepo ya, liat strategi sendiri aja!" (Don't be curious; work on your own plan instead!)

9. Mager (pronounced: mah-ger)

Meaning: Lazy or unmotivated. Usage: “Mager” is an abbreviation for "malas gerak" (lazy to move). This term is usually used to describe the feeling of being lazy to do something or just wanting to laze around. Additionally, the word mager is also interpreted as a refusal to an invitation. Someone might say mager if they feel uninterested, tired, or unmotivated. Due to its popularity, the word “mager” has even become an official term in Indonesia as it is listed in the Indonesian Language Great Dictionary (Kamus Besar Bahasa Indonesia or KBBI). According to the KBBI, “mager” means lazy (to) move; reluctant or unmotivated to engage in activities. Example: "Mager main malam ini deh. Besok aja ya!" (Not feeling like playing tonight. Let's do it tomorrow!)

10. Jomblo (pronounced: jom-blo)

Meaning: Single (not in a relationship). Usage: This lighthearted term translates to "single." While not directly related to gameplay, it's a common term used by gamers to describe their relationship status or playfully tease friends. Example: "Jomblo pada ngumpul! Kita main bareng yuk!" (Singles gather up! Let's play together!) or "Kayaknya pahlawan kita masih jomblo nih. Mungkin menyelamatkan dunia bisa membantu dia menemukan pasangan." (Looks like our hero is still single. Maybe saving the world will help him find love).

11. Sotoy (pronounced: soh-toy)

Meaning: Acting like a know-it-all. Usage: “Sotoy” refers to someone who acts contrary to what he knows or truly knows nothing of. In gaming, it sometimes depicts that character who wants to give unsolicited advice all the time. Avoid using it directly towards players, but it can be used in comedic situations. Example: "Jangan sotoy deh! Ikuti rencana saja." (Stop being a know-it-all. Let’s just follow the plan).

12. Nongkrong (pronounced: nong-krong)

Meaning: Hanging out or chilling. Usage: "Nongkrong" is a widespread slang term in Indonesian society. This is a common Indonesian slang word that means "to hang out" or "chill." Friends use the term to describe casual social meetings in informal settings such as cafes, parks, or simply hanging out at someone's home. At the root of "nongkrong" lies relaxation and socialization; there is no specific agenda—just plain enjoying each other's company. It can be used in games to describe casual social interactions or gathering spots. Example: “Setelah menyelesaikan quest, ayo kita nongkrong sebentar di kedai.” (After the quest, let’s hang out at the tavern for a while).

13. Bete (pronounced: Beh-te)

Meaning: Bored or annoyed. Usage: “Bete” is a term for frustration or monotony in Indonesian slang. In video games, it can characterize how a player feels when faced with tedious or difficult levels. Example: “Level ini membuatku bete. Aku butuh istirahat.” (This level is making me so bored. I need a break).

14. Curhat (pronounced: cur-hat)

Meaning: Venting or sharing personal feelings. Usage: “Curhat” is short for “curahan hati,” which means to pour out one’s heart. It’s used to describe someone sharing their problems or feelings, often seeking advice or comfort. Example: “Mari kita sesi curhat di chat. Saya perlu membicarakan misi terakhir itu.” (Let’s share our feelings in the chat. I need to talk about that last mission).

15. Baper (pronounced: ba-per)

Meaning: Overly emotional or sensitive. Usage: “Baper” is derived from Indonesian slang, "bawa perasaan," literally meaning to bring or carry feelings. It describes someone who tends to take things too personally or gets very emotional over something. Example: “Jangan baper karena kalah. Itu hanya sebuah permainan.” (Don’t get emotional because of you lost. It’s just a game).

Conclusion

These 15 slang terms integrated into the Indonesian game translation can greatly improve the gaming experience of local players. This familiar language will increase immersion and relevance for Indonesian gamers. This fosters a positive relationship with an audience, resulting in increased engagement and retention, ultimately leading to the success of a game in the Indonesian market.

Localization means much more than simple translation. It touches on cultural peculiarities and preferences. The implementations of popular Indonesian slang demonstrate that you care about the local culture and are working hard to bring an authentic gaming experience. Positive reviews, increased downloads, and in-app purchases will bring you a better return on investment.

For game developers stepping into the Indonesian market, local slang and idioms act as powerful tools. Knowing the expressions is the surest way to make any game stand out within a flooded market. So, get creative, be culturally aware, and speak your players' language!

Want to know more about various Indonesian slangs? Read our other articles for more insights. If you are ready to bring your game to a whole new level with professional localization, then it's time to partner with Digital-Trans Asia. Contact us today and let's discuss your project. Let us help you succeed in the Indonesian market.