A Study On Translation Strategies For Game Text Localization From The Perspective Of Functional Equivalence Theory

Game localization,affected by multiple social factors,is a developing field driven by technology,led by market demands,and influenced by political and cultural memes like game buzzword.Local game operators need to take full advantage of multimedia and the means of multi-modality to attract players and present to them the very charm and game experience of the game.All of these require that the translation of different game text types should be performed in compliance with writing norms and have the equivalent functions with the original game texts.In this regard,game localization is actually a highly sophisticated program restricted by multiple factors,thus the study of specific translation strategies and methods is in great significance.Under the guidance of Nida’s Functional Equivalence Theory,the research methods of literature research and case analysis are used for analyzing the strategies and methods adopted in the translation of different types of game text by focusing on the localization of game texts,such as character names,character lines,character skills,prop names,prop descriptions,game interface and operating system from DOTA2.Several conclusions are made from this research: Firstly,before the game text localization,in order to achieve functional equivalence between the source text and target text,the translators need to fully understand the background of the game theme.By the adoption of foreignization,the game characteristics and cultural creativeness of descriptive texts such as character names,skill names,and item names can be more prominent through literal translation and transliteration.Secondly,during the game text localization,the translators mainly adopt literal translation methods for directive texts such as game interface and operating system without compromise of the original meaning.Based on the correct presentation of core gameplay and instructions,the target language players can fully understand the playability of the game.Thirdly,on account of audience reach,and in the light of the target players’ cultural background and language preference,domestication are mainly adopted in narrative texts such as character lines.Through the translation methods of free translation and transcreation,the translations with reader-centered and audience-oriented make the game content more accessible to players.