Case Study - Rapid Localization for Expanding Coverage: Passpartout 2

Rapid Localization for Expanding Coverage

Passpartout 2

Client: Flamebait

Game: Passpartout 2

Genre: Casual, Indie, Art Creation

The Swedish game developer Flamebait released Passpartout 2 in April 2023. The game was the follow-up to the acclaimed Passpartout from 2017. As with the first title, the developer was going to self-publish the game and chose a few target regions to focus on for the initial release. As their marketing lead had a background in localization, they decided to handle the initial release of the game in European core languages with their own team of translators.

The Problem

Passpartout 2 launched with immediate success. This led to the developer deciding to quickly leverage the momentum of positive reviews and player interest to expand accessibility into new regions.

This required a swift localization of the entire game into several additional languages, without compromising quality. This would allow new players to enjoy the same creative experiences as the existing player base, with special consideration for their specific language and cultural references.

To do this they needed a partner able to provide the necessary linguistic expertise for these new target regions, while appreciating Passpartout 2 as gamers who truly connect with the unique fusion of whimsical adventure game and art creation tool that the Passpartout series provides.

What the Client Needed

• Localization for additional languages - going from 5 to 18 supported languages.

• A team of experienced linguists with a deep understanding of the unique appeal of Passpartout 2 as a game and art creation tool.

• Support of regular updates post release for all languages, with fast turnarounds.

• Quick and efficient communication between the developer and linguists.

• Managing and updating query sheets.

• Maintaining perfect project consistency, utilizing glossaries and a translation database.

• Linguistic Quality Assurance of the translations in-game.

Our Solution

• We interviewed and selected the best suited linguists from our trusted network of freelancers, created from more than a decade of specializing in video game localization.

• Linguists were then familiarized with the game’s universe and gameplay mechanics by playing the latest build for a minimum of 2 hours.

• We leveraged industry leading CAT tools to ensure consistency in translations and glossary creation.

• We maintained project quality through team consistency. Localization updates were always handled by the same translators whenever possible. Thorough project on-boarding was executed whenever additional linguists were needed.

• Channels of communication created through Discord and e-mail to suit both client and linguist needs.

• Technical quality assurance before delivery. Tag integrity, character limits, potentially game breaking special characters, etc.

• Efficient query sheet management: checking for new entries, removing doubles, replying to queries previously posted, ensuring the most efficient use of the client’s time.

• Thorough linguistic testing of the game in collaboration with the client. Setting up the optimal testing plan in collaboration with the client for playthrough and regression testing.

Results

• As a result of our collaboration with Flamebait, Passpartout 2 has been able to reach players around the world in 18 languages, with more than 3 times the potential player base than before localization.

• Passpartout 2 also launched successfully on mobile platforms, with the same high level of attention to detail as in the base game, thanks to the consistent team of dedicated linguists.

• Flamebait has been able to launch numerous updates simultaneously for all locales since the game released, adding support of Wacom drawing tablets, collaborations with partner brands and more.

Want to know more about how we can expand your localization and help generate global revenue?

Get in touch at: Info@ECIGames.net