https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4034-4671
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Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the intersection between mobile video game localization and paratext. More specifically, it investigates the potential factors that can impact and shape the entire gaming experience. To conduct the current study, the App Store descriptions for all the games listed in the App Store sub-category ‘Play in Arabic’ were analyzed (n = 23). A descriptive analysis was provided for each game’s app store description component, including the name of the game, events, what’s new, preview, rating and reviews, app privacy, and information. Moreover, the original English version of all these components was compared to the Arabic localized version. The findings revealed that not all components of the app store description are fully localized into Arabic. As far as paratext is concerned, the analysis demonstrated that gamers’ experience can be influenced and shaped by the surrounding description of the game and its localized versions.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Bilal Sayaheen
Dr. Bilal Sayaheen is an associate professor of translation studies in the Department of Translation at Yarmouk University. He teaches several undergraduate and graduate courses, including theories of translation and computer-assisted translation tools. His research interests include translation technology, localization, corpus-based translation, literary translation, and translation pedagogy. He has a PhD in translation studies from Kent State University. Author contact: Bilal Sayaheen, Yarmouk University, PO Box 261, Irbid 21110, Jordan. Email: [email protected] Mobile No.: +962 795365783.