Translation strategies in video game localization: study of the Italian version of Undertale

In this paper I am going to analyze the translation strategies used in video game localization, taking care to underline the importance of transcreation and audiovisual translation in the localization process. The video game Undertale (2015), by Toby Fox, will be the subject of my study because of its multitude of complex characters and their unique dialogues. Their core personalities and their impact on how they express themselves will be analyzed, in order to better explain the strategies needed for the localization of their dialogues. I will focus on the intricacies of translating informal language and cultural references, taking the Italian version of the game and comparing it with the original. In conclusion, I will provide solid research on the Italian translation and, particularly, on the challenges of translating it, making sure to add any appropriate changes or improvements.