Videogame Localisation: Introduction
This one-day online course for translators provides an introduction to video game localisation.
Overview
This one-day online course for translators provides an introduction to video game localisation (a combination of audiovisual translation and software localisation).
You’ll gain a global overview of the process of localisation of video games.
You’ll learn strategies for this specific type of translation, and about the main tools and workflows used in the localisation industry.
The course is very practical, and you’ll work with real examples of video games. This course is run by the Centre for Translation Studies (CenTraS) at UCL.
This professional course is open to:
- freelance translators
- undergraduate and postgraduate translation students
- translation tutors
Part 1: Introduction to the videogames industry and videogames typology.
In the first part of the course, you'll get a quick introduction to the history of the videogames industry and learn how to analyse and categorise the different types of videogames from the point of view of a translator.
Part 2: Characteristics of the localisation of a videogame.
In the second part of the course, you'll learn about the main characteristics and strategies of this specific type of translation, such as the:
- use of transcreation approaches
- micro-structure and macro-structure of a videogame
- priorities and restrictions that need to be observed
You'll try putting all these strategies into practice with some examples and hands-on exercises.
Part 3: Tools, workflows and processes to localise a videogame.
Finally, you'll learn about the main tools and workflows used in the localisation industry, as well as the different types of workflows for the localisation of a videogame.
By the end of this course, you'll be able to:
- outline the characteristics of the video game localisation industry, as well as its history and basic concepts
- manage the different phases from the beginning of a video game localisation project to its completion
- apply the corresponding technology according to the type of project
- translate or localise the different types of texts that make up a video game
- recognise different computer tools for translation, localisation and testing of video games
You'll receive a certificate of attendance on completion of the course.
The fees are as follows:
- UCL students and CenTraS alumni - £80
- UCL staff, academic visitors, and affiliates - £130
- Full rate - £160
This course will take place on 9th May 2026, 10:00-13:00 UK time.
To book your place, please use UCL Online Store: click here.
Yunke Deng
Ms Yunke Deng is a PhD researcher at CenTraS, and a researcher with the CenTraS Gaming Lab. She also works as a freelance translator. She holds an MA in Translation Studies from the University of Bristol. Her research focuses on game accessibility, game localisation, and user experience, especially with players with limited abilities.
For information on content, please email the tutor Yunke Deng, yunke.deng.22@ucl.ac.uk.
If you have any further questions, please email CenTraS Professional Courses at selcs.centras-professional@ucl.ac.uk.