Given the huge population, China is one of the largest markets for gaming products in the world, whether they are software apps or game consoles. When it comes to gaming apps, localization of a game from English to Mandarin is a requirement if the game is to be well accepted by the market. Gaming industry in China is huge and it has significant contribution to the global game market.
Chinese gamers love certain genres of game, including shooting and multi-player battle games. Casino and racing are increasingly popular in the last few years, meanwhile, puzzles show declining trend. As the gamers now have so many options of games, some ‘conventional’ games like puzzles see declining interests. Therefore, if you want to translate English to Chinese, you can choose action, adventure, or battle games as priorities.
The Needs for English to Mandarin Game Translation
The game industry of China has been known for many years. Among the famous names include Tencent and NetEase. However, foreign games still have huge chances to get into the industry, thanks to the huge populations, differed gaming preferences, and advanced internet technology in the country. Research found that Chinese gamers use the smart phones to play games everyday at different lengths.
However, most Chinese do not speak English. Therefore, if you want to target the huge market in China, you need English to Mandarin game translation service. Localization becomes important since the global game providers need to partner with local publishers. Moreover, Chinese people prefer products, which are available in local language.
Translating in-game text from English to Mandarin may not be as simple as it sounds. English and Mandarin are two significantly different languages. Therefore, you may need to outsource the translation/localization process to a professional translation agency.
Rules of English to Mandarin Game Translation Service
Translation of software or apps like games is generally called localization. Localization here involves at least two aspects, namely, translating in-game text and localization of voice-overs. Make sure to remember the following rules:
Simplied Vs Traditional Chinese Languages
Chinese has two variations, namely, simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese (Taiwan and Hong Kong). The traditional Chinese languages in Hong Kong and Taiwan may sound similar, but they are actually different. When translating in-game text from English to Mandarin, these three versions of Chinese languages will require different sets of skills and knowledge.
The simplified Chinese language is used in mainland China. Meanwhile, the traditional Chinese languages are mostly used in Taiwan and Hong Kong. Chinese people overseas like in Malaysia, Singapore, or Indonesia, mostly use the traditional Chinese.
Mandarin vs. Cantonese
Mandarin and Cantonese are spoken languages. They are used when translating conversations or voiceover. In some cases, you may need to provide the games in these two Chinese dialects. This can be a daunting task; therefore, make sure that the translation process is done by translators, who are native to the target regions. Cantonese is used in Hong Kong, while Mandarin is mostly spoken in mainland China.
Localization of game from English to Mandarin may be necessary for some components of the game. Of course, the number of parts to localize will determine the amount of money required for the translation process. The most important components include the following:
- Basic parts like description, keywords, or updates
- Marketing materials
- In-game text and subs
- Audio files, like voiceover.
Why Working with English to Chinese Translation Agency
Working with English to Chinese translation agency is necessary, as this can be challenging task. Game translators may be faced with a number of linguistic issues. For instance:
- Certain terms may be used only in traditional Chinese languages, not in simplified Chinese. Non-native translators may not be familiar with such rule. They may do some mistakes in adopting the terms.
- Non-native translators may only be familiar with either simplified Chinese or traditional Chinese.
- Native translators know that gamers in China may be familiar with some international terms in gaming industry. Examples include ‘solo’ games, ‘game over,’ and many more. These terms may not need to translate English to Mandarin terms in such cases.
Mistakes in the translation process can frustrate gamers. Young gamers can easily leave a game if the language does not sound to be natural and accurate. Only native translators can do the task well. You cannot depend upon an individual translator to do these tasks. Working with a professional and registered translation agency is the best option you have, due to the following reasons:
- You can ask for the project portfolio;
- You can see online reviews on the agency;
- You can talk to the translators before the agreement is made;
- You know where to file complaints;
- You can negotiate the price, and many more
If you want to target Chinese market for gaming products, make sure that your games are well translated into the local language. Therefore, working with experienced and professional English to Mandarin translation agency is the answer.