Agenda
Beyond Translation: Why the Future Localizer Looks Like a Dramaturge
Kathleen Yin (Localization Expert, NVIDIA)
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Hot Topics:
International
Track:
Narrative & Performance, Production & Team Leadership
Audience Level:
All
Format:
Lecture
Vault Recording: TBD
Audience Level: All
As game production, geopolitics, and translation technologies continue to shift, game localization is changing too. What remains uniquely human is not simply converting words from one language to another, but preserving intent, performance, cultural meaning, and user experience across regions.
Drawing on the dramaturge's theatrical role, this talk explores how localizers can evolve into cultural advisors, narrative collaborators, and performance specialists who contribute earlier and more deeply in game development. Veteran localizer Kathleen Yin examines how localization is already moving upstream, what skills will matter most as localizers become more embedded in all facets of game development, and why the future of the profession may depend on translating experiences instead of words.
Drawing on the dramaturge's theatrical role, this talk explores how localizers can evolve into cultural advisors, narrative collaborators, and performance specialists who contribute earlier and more deeply in game development. Veteran localizer Kathleen Yin examines how localization is already moving upstream, what skills will matter most as localizers become more embedded in all facets of game development, and why the future of the profession may depend on translating experiences instead of words.
Takeaway
Attendees will learn about what factors are reshaping localization, what dramaturgy can teach localizers about interpretation and performance, which human skills are becoming more valuable, and how localization teams can move upstream to influence narrative, cultural adaptation, voice direction, and user experience.
Intended Audience
This session is for localization professionals, localization managers, narrative designers, writers, voice directors, producers, and developers working on games for global audiences. It is also relevant to anyone interested in how cultural expertise and a globalization approach can contribute to the game development and marketing pipeline.