localization Archives

Lessons from the video game industry: a guide to Japanese translation (Part Two)

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or may be unavailable.) Part two In part one, we examined how the mechanical differences between English and Japanese complicate video game translators’ work, particularly in the 1980s and ‘90s when Japanese game companies like Nintendo became a powerful industry presence. But structural and grammatical dist…

Lessons from the video game industry: a guide to Japanese translation (Part One)

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or may be unavailable.) Part One Translating between any two languages is bound to present challenges, be they grammatical differences, cultural barriers, or otherwise. But some are more difficult than others — like English and Japanese. Two languages that largely developed independently of one another, Engl…

Reflections on LocWorld54 Monterey: How our industry is evolving with AI

LocWorld54 Monterey delivered insightful talks and warm, person-to-person interactions. The topics presented a balance between human intelligence and technological innovation that felt especially thoughtful, giving the impression that our industry is maturing in how it views and discusses AI. Evolving discussions on the adoption of AI While AI remained the c…

Reflections on ELIA Networking Days 2025

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or may be unavailable.) ELIA (European Language Industry Association) held its annual Networking Days event in Budapest, Hungary, on September 22nd and 23rd. This year’s event convened under the theme “Opportunity Knocks: Playing the AI Game.” Discussion groups tackled the following topics: Understanding how…

We’ll be at LocWorld54 Monterey

From October 14–16, 2025, the localization community will gather in Monterey, California, to share strategies, explore new technologies, and connect with global content leaders. LocWorld54 is where fresh ideas meet real-world experience, and we’re excited to be part of it. Meet Us at the Exhibitor Area Crestec is proud to be a Pen Sponsor at this year’s even…

manga translation

The trials and tribulations of manga translation

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or may be unavailable.) Translating manga, or Japanese comics, is no joke. Between the tight deadlines, the space limitations and often-nuanced text, the constant fight against piracy, and the legion of fans eager to scrutinize every detail of a new release, linguists face some difficult expectations. But it…

Gaming console localization: A matter of language and strategy

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or be unavailable.) The launch of a new game console is always big news for localization professionals. After all, video game localization is one of the biggest markets for language services, with 76% of consumers preferring native-language products and 40% refusing to use non-localized platforms outright, a…

Americans and subtitles: A tale of creativity and coherence

(*Linked or embedded content may have been removed or be unavailable.) If you or a loved one have been turning on subtitles more frequently lately, you’re not alone. Recent studies find it’s an increasingly common practice among American media consumers, challenging preexisting assumptions about national preferences. While foreign-language films have always …

LocWorld53 Malmö Recap

The latest LocWorld event had a lot to say about AI in localization, reflecting the industry’s evolving relationship with all things AI. Recent conferences have left attendees with more questions than answers, but LocWorld53 Malmö proved to be a turning point, as sessions and talks offered real-world case studies illustrating a clear push toward practical im…

Crestec is pen sponsor for LocWorld53 Malmö

LocWorld53 Malmö is set to be held June 3rd through the 5th, offering unbeatable opportunities to join talks from expert speakers and do lots of networking. LocWorld is always an energizing event, and we’re proud to be the pen sponsor for LocWorld53. The industry is rapidly changing, so it is more important than ever to touch-base with peers and catch up on …