Game Localization · Glossary
What is a Translation Management System (TMS)?
A translation management system (TMS) is a software platform that centralizes and automates the workflow of managing localization projects — handling file exchange, translation memory, glossary enforcement, translator assignment, quality review, and delivery. Major TMS platforms used in game localization include Phrase, Lokalise, memoQ, Trados, Smartling, and Crowdin.
What a TMS Does
A TMS manages the end-to-end localization workflow: import source files (from any format — XLIFF, JSON, CSV, PO), segment them into translatable units, apply translation memory to pre-fill previously translated content, enforce glossary terms, route segments to translators, track progress, enable quality review, and export translated files in the original format. For game studios with ongoing localization needs, a TMS replaces email-based file exchange with an automated, trackable workflow.
TMS vs. CAT Tool
A Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tool is the interface translators use to work on individual segments — it shows the source text, TM suggestions, glossary lookups, and a text field for the translation. A TMS is the management layer above — it handles file management, project routing, progress tracking, and delivery. Many platforms combine both (Phrase, memoQ, Trados). CAT tool refers to the translator’s workspace; TMS refers to the project management system.
TMS Integration with Game Development
Modern TMS platforms offer API integrations and plugins for game engines and version control systems. Unity’s Localization Package, for example, integrates with platforms like Phrase and Lokalise for direct string sync. GitHub/GitLab integrations allow automated extraction of string files from a repository and automatic delivery of translated files back to the repo. This CI/CD-style localization workflow eliminates manual file exchange and enables continuous localization alongside continuous development.
Choosing a TMS for Your Game
Key factors: file format support (does it handle your engine’s string format?), API/integration availability (can it connect to your build pipeline?), translation memory and glossary features, cost (most TMS platforms charge per word managed or per user), and your team’s technical capacity for integration setup. SandVox works with all major TMS platforms and can advise on integration options for your stack.
SandVox and Translation Management System (TMS)
SandVox integrates with all major TMS platforms — Phrase, Lokalise, memoQ, Trados, Smartling, Crowdin, and others. We adapt to your existing workflow rather than requiring you to adopt ours. For studios without an existing TMS, we can recommend the right fit for your team size and technical capacity.
Related terms: Translation Memory · Translation Glossary · Localization Kit · Game Localization
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a TMS for my game localization project?
For a small indie game with one language and a one-time localization pass, a TMS may be overkill — file exchange via shared folder or email is manageable. For any game with multiple languages, ongoing live-service content, or recurring updates, a TMS significantly reduces management overhead and prevents file versioning errors. SandVox can manage the TMS workflow on your behalf if you prefer not to set one up yourself.
Which TMS is best for Unity or Unreal game localization?
Unity’s Localization Package has native integrations with Phrase and Lokalise. Unreal Engine uses a custom XLIFF-based format that most TMS platforms support via import/export. Crowdin has a Unity plugin for automated string sync. The ‘best’ TMS depends on your team’s existing tools, budget, and workflow preferences. We work with all of them.
Can SandVox use our existing TMS?
Yes. We integrate with all major TMS platforms and adapt to your existing workflow. If you have a project already set up in Phrase, Lokalise, or any other platform, we can join as a translator/vendor team without requiring workflow changes on your end.
What is the difference between Phrase, Lokalise, and memoQ?
All three are professional TMS platforms with TM, glossary, and file management capabilities. Phrase (formerly Memsource) is widely used in enterprise and has strong API capabilities. Lokalise is popular with mobile/web teams and has good GitHub integration. memoQ is traditional desktop software popular in EU translation agencies with strong CAT features. All three are appropriate for game localization; choice depends on team preference and integration needs.
Need Expert Game Localization?
SandVox provides end-to-end game localization including translation management system (tms) — for narrative games, mobile titles, webtoons, and interactive fiction.