Why Localization Should be Important to XBOX

It’s no surprise that XBOX does better in certain regions compared to others. Some of this is due to better supply chain logistics and support services available. However, one thing is for sure, the lack of language support and localization will undermine any efforts to grow XBOX globally. 

Player Voice Is a Good First Step For XBOX Localization

XBOX CEO, Asha Sharma, has been making the rounds recently, trying to win over disgruntled fans and communicate the harsh realities of the video game industry. One positive project that she and her team implemented was the Player Voice platform to collect user feedback. Users flood the PV platform to request changing gaming time logs, return of exclusive games, and much more. 

Localization is also high on the Player Voice list. Coming from the tiny archipelago of Bahrain, the Middle East is predominantly an Arabic speaking region, though many are bi-lingual. Many packaged games have both Arabic and English content grace the back cover, and some games even support fully localized or Arabic subtitles in games.

PlayStation – Best Practice in Arabic Localization

In particular, PlayStation understands the value of regional localization for its games. It remains the preferred platform in the region—though PC has seen immense growth over the past couple of years. A majority of PS games have either fully voice Arabic dialogue or subtitle options, and most Arab countries even have their own PSN stores, including tiny Bahrain! 

Granted, the Arabic translations aren’t the tightest and often lose their meaning and impact, but the effort is appreciated. This means that many more customers can navigate within your game, understand its concepts and storylines. In other words, the more people can engage with your game,  the more potential customers you have!

Make Your Voice Count

This is not a new issue; it’s been a longstanding request for years. But repeating it is imperative to gain traction, so XBOX gets the message to begin taking localization seriously, if it wants to grow its global console presence. This will help bridge the gap and make XBOX a truly global platform.

I will shout out to a fellow Bahraini gamer who has already placed an Arabic localization request on the XBOX Player Voice platform. Hopefully, XBOX will take localization efforts seriously, especially if it wants to grow the brand globally.