Localization of Digital Games: The Process of Blending for the Global Games Market

Publication Type  Journal Article
Year of Publication  2004
Authors  Thayer, Alexander; Kolko, Beth
Journal Title  Technical Communication
Volume  51
Pagination  477-488
Key Words  localization; technical communication; blending; MMOG
Abstract  

Digital games are a global, multibillion dollar industry, yet few standards exist for the localization of games for different cultures. By contrast, the process of localizing productivity applications follows a relatively well-defined set of guidelines, with which many technical communicators are familiar. The localization processes for digital games, however, can follow one of three levels of complexity, none of which are formally articulated. In this article, we focus on the most challenging and most potentially effective form of digital game localization, known as blending. Blending involves the alteration of the central storyline of a game to make the game more successful in other countries. We believe that technical and professional communicators should learn more about blending, digital game localization, and their place within the burgeoning game industry.

URL  http://www.techcomm-online.org/
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