The Korean MMORPG Lost Ark has posted new job openings online. They are looking for a Project Manager for the localization of the game in North America and Europe.
What type of job posting is this? On the official Smilegate site, a new job advertisement has appeared, which initially sounds somewhat cryptic. They are looking for a [Lost Ark] L10N PM (North America / Europe).
L10N is a so-called numeronym that stands for “Localization.” PM is the abbreviation for Project Manager. Thus, they are seeking a new employee who will handle the localization of Lost Ark in Europe and the USA.
The job requirements also state that not only excellent English skills are required, but also basic knowledge of French, Italian, and German.
What does a Localization Manager do? A Project Manager for localization not only ensures that the translation of the quests and synchronization of the game run smoothly. They have a direct influence on how the game is implemented in the respective country.
Localization is therefore the preparation of a game for launch in other countries. This includes, for example:
- Compliance with the applicable laws in the target country, which may prohibit certain contents of a game, such as gambling or age ratings.
- Acknowledgment of cultural differences that may lead to the censorship of certain aspects. For example, the depiction of bones in the Chinese version of WoW.
- Communication with foreign partners on a basis that guarantees successful collaboration.
Whereas translation remains the most time-consuming part of localization.
After Japan, we are next
What does it mean for us? The developer Smilegate has been emphasizing for months, that they are actively working to bring Lost Ark to the West. It was originally stated in an interview that the European release would be addressed after the launch in Japan. However, the new job posting is the first visible step in this direction.
Applications for the Localization Manager position can be submitted until August 31 at the latest. However, the selection process for the applicants may continue for a long time after the deadline.
A release or at least the first beta tests in 2020 thus seem rather unlikely. Nevertheless, it is evident that progress is being made in this area, albeit slowly.
It also increases our chances of getting directly into the new polished content, which will come with Season 2 of Lost Ark. The Japanese have already been able to test some of it in their first Closed Beta.
