Localization of Mystery of the Ancients 8. No Escape Collector’s Edition : a Video Game Annotated Translation

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The present work documents the localization process of the video game Mystery of the Ancients 8: No Escape Collector’s Edition, as well as the translation problems that stymied such a task. To carry this out, a thorough procedure was followed, which included: video game selection, decompilation, assets extraction, assets preparation, translation, desktop publishing, quality assurance (Q.A.), analysis, and the final written report. Nord’s approach (1997) was also used to classify several types of translation problems encountered throughout the process. Pragmatic, cultural, linguistic, and text-specific translation problems, as well as translation difficulties, were evidenced during the localization of the video game. Functional translation techniques were applied to respond to said issues. This work enabled us to emphasize the significance of translation strategies and how they influence functional translation practices. Therefore, there is an invitation to encourage research related to the field and prepare professionals adequately.