From translation to localization
Accurate translation of a video game requires highly advanced and diverse skills and knowledge. This type of task typically combines the characteristics of marketing, technical, and literary translation. Therefore, stylistic prowess is a must as is the knowledge of IT and the awareness of the context in which a game is set.
Important as it is, correct translation is not the only thing that makes a video game successful. Due to the complexity of video games, the end result can be achieved only after a multi-stage process has been successfully completed. Therefore, translation must be complemented with localization, which basically means adapting the text to the customs as well as to cultural and linguistic norms established in the country of the target audience. Only then does the final result stand a chance of being accepted by customers. Ideally, the message to the customers should sound as created from scratch in their native language.