Localisation is a critical aspect of game development that can significantly impact a game's reach and player experience. On platforms like Steam, developers have the flexibility to tailor language support across various layers, including the interface, subtitles, and audio. This layered approach allows for a strategic and staged implementation of localisation, making it a business decision that can be adapted based on budget and market needs.
Layered Language Support on Steam
According to Steamworks documentation, developers can specify which languages their product supports in-game. This includes options for subtitles, interface, or full audio for each language. By allowing developers to choose which aspects of their game to localise, Steam facilitates a more manageable approach to localisation. For instance, a developer may opt to only translate the interface initially, postponing audio localisation until a later stage.
Store Page Localisation
In addition to in-game language options, Steam also provides developers with the ability to localise store page content. This includes the written description, images, and trailers. By localising these elements, developers can better engage with potential customers in different regions, making their games more accessible to a diverse audience.
The structured approach to language support allows studios to make informed decisions about how to allocate resources for localisation.
Strategic Budgeting for Localisation
The differentiation between 'full platform support' languages and 'game support only' languages allows developers to prioritize their localisation efforts. Full platform support languages enable players to run the Steam client and browse the store in their preferred language, while game support only languages indicate which languages the game itself supports. This distinction can guide studios in their decision-making process, allowing them to focus on the most impactful languages first.
