Experiences in the art and track localization of a game of oriental theme and in the construction and translation of a storytelling game

Abstract

In this essay we discuss two game production and development experiences at Dumativa, an independent creation studio located in Rio de Janeiro. Both projects were undertaken during the studio’s first months of operation, between late 2011 and the first half of 2012. The first project is a 2D side-scrolling game with a visual, sound and paratextual Chinese theme whose target group was predominantly English-speaking. The second project consists of a storytelling game for PC, also in English, whose gameplay is centered on choices and consequences within an adaptive storyline that changes according to the options and reading experiences of the players. Our goal in this essay is to show the importance of translation and localization to the final product. The paths of the creative team in defining methodologies and strategies during the game design process is also shown. Issues related to building and developing an independent game studio, as well as a team capable of developing games of a high level of excellence, are also covered.