Game Localization · Glossary
What is a Translation Memory (TM)?
A translation memory (TM) is a database that stores previously translated text segments — paired source strings with their approved translations — so they can be automatically suggested or reused in future localization work. TM reduces cost, improves consistency, and speeds delivery for games with ongoing content.
How Translation Memory Works
When a new string is submitted for translation, the TM system checks it against all previously translated strings. An exact match (100% match) means the translation already exists and can be reused directly. A fuzzy match (typically 75–99% similar) suggests a previous translation as a starting point for review. No match means the string goes to the translator fresh. TM systems track matches per string, allowing for tiered pricing and faster delivery on update projects.
Why TM Is Critical for Live-Service Games
Live-service games release ongoing content — new events, seasonal updates, dialog expansions, patch notes. Without TM, every update is translated from scratch, including strings that have appeared before or are similar to existing content. With TM, recurring strings (UI elements, system messages, character names, item descriptions) are consistent across all updates and require no re-translation. Consistency improves player experience; reduced re-translation reduces cost.
TM and Terminology Consistency
TM works best alongside a terminology glossary — a project-specific list of key terms, character names, item names, and brand-specific vocabulary with their approved translations. Together, TM and glossary enforce consistency across even very long-running projects. A character name that appears in 200 episodes is always the same, regardless of which translator handled which episode.
Who Owns the Translation Memory
TM ownership should be clarified at the start of any localization engagement. The TM built from your game’s content is an asset — it stores your game’s terminology and approved translations. For projects where TM carries significant value (long-running series, large catalogs), ensure your localization agreement includes TM portability: the ability to export your TM in standard format (TMX) if you change vendors.
SandVox and Translation Memory (TM)
SandVox builds project-specific translation memories for all ongoing localization engagements. Client TMs are available for export in TMX format. Our TM infrastructure is a key reason ongoing series localization becomes faster and more consistent over time.
Related terms: Game Localization · Localization Qa · Localization Kit · Post Editing
Frequently Asked Questions
Does translation memory reduce the cost of ongoing game content localization?
Yes, significantly. Strings with 100% TM matches are typically charged at a much lower rate than new translation. For live-service games with recurring UI text, system messages, and established character dialog patterns, TM can reduce ongoing localization cost by 20–60% compared to translating the same project fresh each update.
What file format are translation memories stored in?
The standard format is TMX (Translation Memory eXchange), an XML-based format supported by all professional CAT tools and translation management systems. We store and deliver TMs in TMX format for full portability.
Can I bring my existing translation memory to SandVox?
Yes. If you have an existing TM from a previous vendor, we import it at project start and leverage matches from day one. Bring your TMX file and any associated termbases.
How long does it take to build a useful translation memory?
A TM starts providing value immediately — even a first project builds a foundation. For a game with 50,000 words in the first translation, the TM makes the first update cheaper than starting fresh. TM value compounds with each content release.
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SandVox provides end-to-end game localization including translation memory ™ — for narrative games, mobile titles, webtoons, and interactive fiction.