Game Localization for MENA Markets 

Do you know that North African and Middle East countries are included in the MENA region? The gaming market has shown exponential growth in this region. It is predicted that by 2027, the digital gaming revenue can be doubled from the 3 million US dollars that were earned in 2021. Gaming localization services can help you in tapping into lucrative MENA markets. 

Why go for Game Localization?

People tend to buy products and services if they are localized according to their regional and cultural preferences. In the same way, people like to play games that are localized in their native language. People living in Arab countries like to play games with no nudity. Here game localization plays its role more than translation. If the game is not localized then the game can fire back and you can face losses in the specific target market. 

Papular Games of MENA Countries 

In addition to comprehending the market’s scope, it is advisable to gain knowledge regarding the games that will achieve widespread adoption. Generally, individuals in the MENA region exhibit a preference for arcades, racing, action, and casual games. 

It is essential to note that a game’s success depends upon its adaptation to the target audience. The use of offensive language, culturally insensitive discourse, or unfamiliar and isolating concepts will hinder users from engaging with your software.

Despite the rapid expansion of this market, developers and software proprietors have been sluggish in localizing their products. However, with the implementation of a suitable strategy, your game possesses a guaranteed potential for commercial viability.

Significance of Game Localization 

The importance of video game localization is more than before because of globalization. It involves more than just translation; it encompasses cultural adaptation and technical optimization to effectively target global audiences. Here are some key reasons why game localization is important 

Expanding Audience Reach

Game localization helps developers to tap into new markets by localizing their games to different languages and regions. This facilitates entry into lucrative international markets such as MENA countries providing great opportunities for increased sales and revenue. But for tapping into the region, you should also know the most spoken languages in Africa. It can help you in localizing the game in the most demanded language. 

Cultural Adaptation

Successful global expansion requires more than just translation; it facilitates culturalization. Developers must understand their target audience’s expectations and tailor the game’s design accordingly. If gameplay mechanics resonate with the local market then your game will be successful. 

International Accessibility

Game localization is about internationalization. It makes the game accessible to diverse regions. Therefore, to make the game resonate with the MENA region, you must modify the date, time, measurements, and currencies 

Product Differentiation

Product differentiation enhances the distinctiveness of developers’ games compared to comparable titles, increasing their attractiveness to players worldwide. Through tailoring games to various markets, developers can craft an exclusive gaming journey. It helps to connect with particular user groups.

Localized Quality Assurance

Localization also encompasses tailored quality assurance testing. This entails validating the precision of translated text and guaranteeing the suitable adaptation of all game components to diverse languages and regions. Testing allows developers to meet expectations when releasing their games in foreign markets.

Increased Downloads

If the game is localized then more people will download the game because it is provided to them in their mother tongue. This results in getting better reviews and ratings from avid gamers. Furthermore, it results in increased sales and profits for developers. Through localization services, developers can ensure worldwide accessibility of their video games and maximize their potential.

Successfully Localized Games for MENA Region 

The successfully localized version of games for the MENA region are as follows

FIFA

Since 2012, Electronic Arts has been offering an Arabic version of its renowned soccer video game. In September 2018, this particular edition achieved impressive sales, surpassing 10 million copies within the initial 8 weeks of its launch. Arabic-speaking gamers in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region can fully immerse themselves in the game with Arabic text and play-by-play commentary. It provided them with an exceptional gaming experience equivalent to that of English-speaking players.

Ubisoft Games

A gaming company has developed Assassin’s Creed, and established its presence in Abu Dhabi, specifically catering to the Middle Eastern region in October 2011. This company has achieved remarkable achievements with its localized games, particularly by employing methods that ensure cultural suitability and age appropriateness while delivering an immersive gaming experience. They take pride in their ability to offer Arabic versions of their games for the MENA market. Additionally, they implement careful content modifications to cater to the preferences and sensibilities of their audience.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, game localization for MENA markets is very important for developers aiming to tap into the growing gaming industry in the Middle East and North Africa. This region has witnessed significant growth in digital gaming revenue, presenting lucrative opportunities for game developers. Localization goes beyond translation and involves cultural adaptation, technical optimization, and understanding the preferences of the target audience. 

By adapting games to different languages, regions, and cultural norms, developers can expand their audience reach, increase downloads, and differentiate their products from competitors. Successful examples of game localization in the region include Electronic Arts’ Arabic version of FIFA and Ubisoft’s localized games, such as Assassin’s Creed. Through effective localization strategies, developers can unlock the full potential of the MENA gaming market and ensure a rewarding gaming experience for players in the region.