What Happens When PETA, Super Mario, and Game Localization Collide
Can controversy be localized? And can controversial parodies be reverse-localized?
How Symphony of the Night’s “Miserable Pile of Secrets” Scene Works in Japanese
This game features one of the most famous video game quotes of all time. But what did it originally say in Japanese?
How Pokémon’s Famous “Smell Ya Later” Phrase Works in Japanese
What is the original Japanese version of this mainstay Pokemon catchphrase?
How to Tell the Difference Between Chinese and Japanese Writing
If you don't know Chinese or Japanese, these easy tips will help you differentiate the two.
Why Japanese Games Have Small Text on Top of Normal Text
Japanese writing sometimes has smaller writing on top of it. This explains what it is, and why it exists.
Final Fantasy VI Translation Comparison (Part 12)
Jumping off cliffs, translation mistakes, fake names, Kefka six packs, rainbows across cultures, Bushido in the Bedroom, and more.
How the Resident Evil 5 Door Pun Is Handled in Japanese
What does a sarcastic one-liner in English look like in Japanese?
How “Control Code” Mistakes Can Wreck Game Translations
Game translation involves more than just text. If you're not careful, you could end up with problems like these.
What Does Japan Think of Little Mac in Smash Bros.?
Punch-Out was never quite a smash hit in Japan, so what was the response to Little Mac's Smash Bros. announcement?
Tricky Translations #3: False Friends & Japanese Hips
Jumping between languages is a tricky process. Here's one type of trap that fools every translator at least once.