Unit information: Game Localization in 2020/21

Unit name	Game Localization
Unit code	MODLM0028
Credit points	20
Level of study	M/7
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Zhang
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Modern Languages
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

This unit is designed to enable students not only to gain theoretical knowledge but also to acquire practical skills in game localization.

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the particular requirements in game localization as a subcategory of specialized translation. They will be equipped to enter the jobs market with a significant advantage in this particular field.

In addition, students will also benefit from the research experience of Dr Zhang, and this unit can provide an excellent pathway into further PhD study.

This unit will develop students’ skills as follows:

1) An understanding of games as new media

2) An understanding of the place of localization and trans-creation as a burgeoning academic discipline

3) The skills of negotiating technical challenges unique to the process of game localization, which will promote advanced problem-solving, critical thinking and lateral thinking skills.

4) A greater inter-cultural awareness and an appreciation of the various strategies which may be employed to mediate the differences between cultures

5) Experience in using translation software complementary to the CAT tools unit

A comprehensive knowledge of the localization industry

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit students will have:

1. developed their understanding of linguistic, cultural, legal and technical issues in order to effectively work in localization
2. obtained skills required to undertake game localization tasks to a professional standard
3. become familiar with standard practices in the game localization industry
4. gained a deeper appreciation of the role of culture in translation and transcreation

familiarised themselves at an advanced level with appropriate theoretical frameworks and research skills

Teaching Information

Teaching will be delivered online through a combination of synchronous sessions and asynchronous activities, including seminars, lectures, and collaborative as well as self-directed learning opportunities supported by tutor consultation.

Assessment Information

Essay 3000 words (100%) testing ILO's 1-4

Reading and References

Bernal-Merino, M. Á. (2014). Translation and Localisation in Video Games. London: Psychology Press.

Mangiron, C., Orero, P., & O'Hagan, M. (ed.) (2014). Fun for all Translation and Accessibility Practices in Video Games. Bern: Peter Lang.

O'Hagan, M., & Mangiron, C. (2013). Game Localization: Translation for the Global Digital Entertainment Industry. Amsterdam: John Benjamins.