Sunday, June 3, 2012

Online Gaming and Translation

Online gaming is one of the fastest-growing industries on the internet. In fact, some analysts had expected gaming to become as big as travel and financial services in terms of revenue if not bigger. However, legislations that were passed in the United States have meant that some of the biggest gaming sites, specifically those that deal with gambling, saw a huge proportion of their income wiped out overnight. With the American market closed or inaccessible to many firms, many had turned to international markets.

There are large and lucrative non-English speaking markets that are enjoying rapid growth around the world. Having your site translated into local languages allows you to tap into these burgeoning opportunities in the developing world. Studies have consistently showed that online customers are four times as likely to make a purchase on a website written in their native tongue even if they understand English. Since 70% of all web users don't consider English language as their mother tongue, imagine the amount of money you're missing out on. It's definitely time to take advantage of translation services today.

Tapping into the Asian Boom

Many countries in Asia are booming and the gaming industry is growing along with it. Singapore has already lifted its 40-year ban on gambling after recognizing that it attracts large flocks of tourists, creates jobs, and improves the economy. There are many other countries in the region such as Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand with a growing market for online gambling services. Then, of course, there is China. China presents a massive market for all gaming firms.

Aside from Asian consumers, there are also many opportunities you can explore in Europe and Latin America among others. It makes sense to translate your website into different languages. After all, paying several hundred dollars per page to the translator can provide a return of as much as 1000% if you play your cards right.

Choosing Experienced Translators

Translating for gaming websites is different from general translation. It requires particular skills and in-depth knowledge of gaming terminologies. The translator must have a basic understanding of each game in order to provide the correct information and instructions. Any improper phrasing can be construed incorrectly. You can get angry players who won't ever go back to your website.

Whether you need run an online casino or a massively multiplayer online role-paying game (MMORPG) website, one thing is common: the terminologies on your site must all be correct, concise, and accurate. That means that the translator you hire should be a native speaker in both the source language and the target language for him/her to understand complex terms in gaming.

Given all the requirements involved, it can be difficult to find a translation agency that can provide high-quality translation services for the gaming industry. Fortunately, there are a few standouts that have extensive industry experience. It is important to hire only the professionals to ensure that your players will have a seamless and enjoyable experience on your website.

Viena Wroblewska, Linguist and President and Owner of APlus Translations in Vancouver, Canada
http://www.aplustranslations.com/


View the original article here

0 comments: