Managing the challenges of game localization

This chapter describes the unique challenges posed by game localization projects. It begins by examining the various activities that comprise a typical multi-platform game localization project. It then situates the localization function in a game publishing corporation and discusses the composition of game localization teams, as well as the respective roles and responsibilities of the team members in a typical game localization project. Next, it examines the relationship between the development and localization functions and discusses the two main approaches to game localization today, namely post-release and simultaneous shipment (“simship”) projects. Finally, it explores four project management processes that are especially critical to the successful management of game localization projects: communications management, scope management, risk management and change management.