EXPLORING THE REALM OF ARABIC FAN GAME LOCALIZATION: THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: BREATH OF THE WILD

Abstract

This thesis examines Arabic fan-game localization through a detailed analysis of a specific case study; that of the Arabic patch by EternalDreamAR for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, an open world, large, text-heavy title that has never been officially released in Arabic. In this research, the study utilizes a qualitative and descriptive methodology, which combines two types of data collection methods: (1) systematic analysis of the primary game assets of the game, UI, inventory systems, and narrative/cinematic subtitles; and (2) a semi-structured interview with the lead localizer, carried out in compliance with HBKU IRB regulations and subsequently processed using anonymously transcribed and translated data collection methods. The analytical framework used in this study is based on functionalist reasoning (Skopos-oriented/ user-centered localization) and translation strategy discussions pertinent to game localization, specifically explicitation, foreignization/domestication, culturalization constraints and limitations due to the use of Arabic as the source language and technical affordances and limitations unique to Arabic. Findings indicate that Arabic fan localizers are subject to a variety of interdependent linguistic, technological, and cultural pressures. The localizing process involved considerable Explicitation due to the need for expansion of Arabic text (e.g., to accommodate the complexities of the language) and acronym/abbreviation handling; this led to an increase in clarity within the localized patches yet resulted in an increased strain on the overall layout of the patches. An additional area of concern regarding terminology management was identified in the game's large item-based ecosystem. The patch displays a significant amount of lexical creativity, particularly in regard to the names of weapons, in addition to an inconsistent and unstable nature, which may negatively impact players’ ability to recognize and understand the content of the patch and negatively impact the overall internal consistency of the content.

Date of Award	2026
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	HBKU College of Humanities and Social Science