SDL plc, the leading provider of Global Information Management (GIM) solutions, today announced that Valve is unleashing gameplay action in 16 languages using SDL Global Information Management solutions.  The entertainment software and technology company is using a comprehensive range of SDL language services to enable millions of gamers worldwide to enjoy leading computer games such as Half-Life® and Team Fortress® 2.  The GIM solution helps ensure the simultaneous launch of new games to eager audiences across the globe.

Valve works with SDL for a comprehensive range of language services.  Predominantly, this involves linguistic services in 15 languages.  A tightly integrated team of SDL in-house translators and an extensive network of in-country freelance translators deliver localized content for all of Valve’s games.  Valve trusts SDL for the full product sweep from in-game voiceovers and sub-titles to TV commercials and animated marketing shorts to the product packaging, instructions, DVD, and the website through which the games are promoted globally. The SDL translation team also provides localized content for the games offering a commentary or ‘extras’.  This includes behind-the-scenes footage of how the game was compiled and interviews with the game creators.

For French, German and Spanish, Valve has engaged SDL to provide audio translation services. SDL has reviewed and selected voiceover artists to record the dialogue, and managed the recordings.  Each new translated audio track is re-synchronized to match the mouth movements on screen. Upon completion, SDL has also applied its stringent linguistic quality assurance processes to ensure that every voiceover is fully validated before its hand-off to Valve.

“To understand how important we consider the relationship with SDL, you only need to consider the scale of responsibility we’re placing with the company,” says Steve McClure, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Valve.  “Valve has enjoyed tremendous global success with its portfolio of games and much of this rests on providing consistently high-quality, timely, localized versions of the games.  We trust SDL to manage our end-to-end Global Information Management process, and the quality of work they do is reflected in how well our games are received around the world.”

“SDL is thrilled to be seen as such an important partner to Valve,” said Garry Levitt, Business Unit Director at SDL. “Valve has quickly become recognized as the leading innovator in the gaming arena. Valve has recognized the importance that language plays in enhancing their customers gaming experience, and has chosen to partner with SDL to manage their Global Information Management processes"

For more information visit www.sdl.com/valve