The concept of “gameplay experience” applied to game localization

Abstract

The main goal of a video game is to provide fun. In this regard, it is essential to bear in mind the concept of “gameplay experience”, which has to do with providing the players with a pleasant interactive experience that allows them to enjoy a good narrative, defeat an opponent, complete a mission, etc, without having their attention diverted to other factors which could eventually compromise the fun. This paper aims at analyzing the concept of “gameplay experience” under the perspective of video game localization, trying to understand to what extent the translation of a video game may contribute to a more/less pleasant gameplay experience. First, some definitions of the terms “gameplay” (commonly translated as “jogabilidade”) and “gameplay experience” (or “experiência de jogo”) are discussed, so as to increase the understanding of their various aspects. Next, the concept of “gameplay experience” within the world of video game localization is examined. Finally, some examples taken from the Brazilian versions of some video games are presented in order to see in practice the importance of translation for a more fun gameplay experience.