In a recent discussion at the Tokyo Game Show, Toshihiro Kondo, President of Nihon Falcom, explored the possibility of integrating artificial intelligence into the game localization process. The conversation took place during his presentation following the showcase of ELLA, a piece of software designed to facilitate the translation of game scripts into multiple languages. This potential application was illustrated using Nihon Falcom's own title, Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki, a game known for its extensive narrative content.
Kondo expressed optimism regarding AI's role in accelerating the translation process for Japanese-developed games. Nonetheless, he emphasised the necessity for human intervention to review and refine the translated scripts to ensure cultural accuracy and quality. This is particularly pertinent given previous instances where rushed translations, such as the state of Ys VIII in 2018, resulted in public apologies and rewrites from localization companies like NIS America.
Despite the efficacy AI could introduce, there are notable reservations within the industry about its employment. Kondo acknowledged a degree of resistance towards AI from various quarters within the company, extending beyond the localization teams to include designers and artists. These professionals express concerns that their creations might be used as data points in AI learning models without their approval. Kondo is hopeful that such apprehensions can be addressed, citing the potential benefits AI could bring to the localization process.
The current timelines for Nihon Falcom's game releases highlight the challenges in question. For instance, the Japanese version of Ys X: Nordics has been available for over a year, yet its American release is scheduled for late October. This highlights the potential for AI to streamline and expedite translation outputs, thereby reducing these delays significantly.
The prospect of AI-driven localization aligns with broader trends within the translation industry, where the increasing presence of artificial intelligence is anticipated. By considering AI's application, Kondo suggests a forward-thinking approach, which, if successfully implemented, could redefine language translation frameworks within the gaming industry. However, for now, balancing technological integration with human oversight remains a key aspect of Falcom's strategy to improve its global localization timelines.
Source: Noah Wire Services