On-Screen Language in Video Games: A Translation Perspective

Paperback / softback

Main Details

Title On-Screen Language in Video Games: A Translation Perspective
Authors and Contributors      By (author) Mikolaj Deckert
By (author) Krzysztof Hejduk
SeriesElements in Translation and Interpreting
Physical Properties
Format:Paperback / softback
Pages:75
Dimensions(mm): Height 229,Width 152
Category/GenreGames development and programming
ISBN/Barcode 9781009045513
ClassificationsDewey:418.020285
Audience
Professional & Vocational
Illustrations Worked examples or Exercises

Publishing Details

Publisher Cambridge University Press
Imprint Cambridge University Press
Publication Date 24 November 2022
Publication Country United Kingdom

Description

In this Element, the authors focus on the translational dimension of 'on-screen language' (OSL). They analyse a data set covering the Polish localisations of Tom Clancy's The Division 2 and Shadow Warrior 2, from which over 1000 cases of unique and meaningful OSL were extracted, almost exclusively in languages other than Polish. Close to 100 representative examples are examined in this Element to map out a comprehensive typological account of OSL. First, visual-verbal stimuli are categorised by their prominence in the 3D environment. The second typology focuses on the identified OSL functions. A supplementary typological distinction is proposed based on the technical (static vs. dynamic) implementation of OSL. The discussion of findings and implications notably comprises input from an interview that the authors conduced with a lead level developer behind Shadow Warrior 2 to provide a complementary professional perspective on OSL and its translation.