Japanese developer and publisher Capcom admitted that its localization team is altering video games for “cultural adaptation, preserving context, and inclusive storytelling.”
Capcom’s games library is extensive. The company is one of the more recognized video game publishers having developed and/or published Dragon’s Dogma 2, Resident Evil, Street Fighter, Monster Hunter, Devil May Cry, Ace Attorney, Mega Man, Dead Rising, Lost Planet, and more.
A screenshot from Dragon’s Dogma II (2024), Capcom
The official Capcom Localization Team account on X posted, “What is localization? Embark on a global adventure through the lens of game localization! Beyond mere translation, we’re diving into the art of cultural adaptation, preserving context, and inclusive storytelling. Join us as we unravel the intricacies that make games resonate worldwide.”
The account added, “Localization isn’t just about translating words; it’s about adapting the game for a global audience. Think cultural nuances, idioms, and regional flair. A good localization makes players feel right at home, wherever in the world they are!”
Capcom Localization Team on X
Next, they stated, “Lost in Translation? Nah! Preserving the vibe is key. Jokes, references, and even gameplay elements might need a little cultural remix. It’s important to find that sweet spot to make sure players get the intended experience without feeling like something got lost in the process.”
“Each language has its unique structure and cultural context. Our teams work to ensure the narrative and dialogue maintain coherence and emotional impact. It’s not just about words; it’s about capturing the essence of the story in a way that resonates with the target audience,” the Capcom Localization Team wrote.
Capcom Localization Team on X
The team then announced it was fully controversial progressive agenda items with cultural sensitivity changes in characters and inclusive language and representation.
For cultural sensitivity in characters the company wrote, “Character design and development must be culturally sensitive. What may be acceptable in one culture might be offensive in another. Localizers play a crucial role in ensuring that characters are relatable and respectful, avoiding stereotypes or other references that could be perceived as negative in specific cultures.”
As for inclusive language and representation it said, “Localization efforts extend to promoting inclusivity through language and representation. This involves adapting not only the linguistic aspects but also addressing gender-specific language, cultural norms, and diverse perspectives. The aim is to create an immersive experience where players from different backgrounds can identify with the characters and narrative. This can be very challenging for certain languages due to grammar.”
Capcom Localization Team on X
Capcom continued the post, “Humor often relies on cultural references and wordplay, making it a challenging aspect of game localization. Translators must carefully navigate puns, jokes, and cultural references to maintain the intended comedic effect. This requires a deep understanding of the target audience’s sense of humor while staying true to the original wit.”
The post concludes with “Consistency in Terminology.” The section reads, “Maintaining consistency in terminology is crucial for a smooth and coherent gaming experience. This applies not only to translating words but also to ensuring that game mechanics, instructions, and lore are consistently represented across languages. Establishing a cohesive language system helps prevent confusion and enhances the overall gaming experience for players worldwide.”
Capcom Localization Team on X
Former World of Warcraft Team Lead Mark Kern reacted to the post writing, “This is their Osaka based localization team, which is full of westerners in localization who are EXTREMELY left leaning and CONTROL the narrative! How do I know? My insider scoop posts tomorrow!”
BREAKING: @Capcom goes FULL WOKE in their localization! Changes characters, GAMEPLAY and more for DEI!
This is their Osaka based localization team, which is full of westerners in localization who are EXTREMELY left leaning and CONTROL the narrative! @CapcomL10N
How do I know?… https://t.co/XzSfUDqUP1 pic.twitter.com/EHllDsPLaw
— Grummz (@Grummz) April 12, 2024
A job listing for a Localization Production Specialist (Japanese) for Nintendo of America requires the employee to have “awareness of culturalization- and DE&I related topics.”
On the Nintendo of America career page, a listing for a Localization Production Specialist (Japanese) located in Redmond, Washington notes that one of the duties of the position is to have “awareness of culturalization- and DE&I related topics.”
This duty is the ninth of 18 bullet points under the localization duties of the position. Most of the other bullet points do seem innocuous and related to the position such as “Translates game text, graphic assets, voice scripts, marketing materials, and supplementary development and testing-related documents and materials as required to support products and services through launch and beyond.”
Another bullet point reads, “Plays pre -production software in Japanese and communicates and clarifies developer intent through text translation and collaboration with other team members.”
Nintendo of America Localization Product Specialist (Japanese) job listing
Not only does this job listing have a localization portion of its duties, it also has a marketing section. Under the marketing duties it requires the the employee to leverage “understanding of game content and target market trends and culture in making recommendations and proposals related to market strategy and tactics.”
Furthermore, the listing also states that the employee will be able to “act as spokesperson for Nintendo by demonstrating games to media, participating in interviews, presenting on live streams, and supporting other promotional efforts.”
Nintendo of America Localization Product Specialist (Japanese) job listing
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Do they want us to pirate their games so we can play the Japanese version? Once their sales tank, hopefully they fire the activists.
RIP Capcom, here I was hopeful for a Resident Evil Remake, but with this attitude I can only see a woke disaster in the making.
Capcom needs to go out of business. Permanently.
STOP BUYING THEIR GAMES! FFS!