For fans of the Tales series, the prospect of playing older games in the franchise has always been a topic of interest. Tales of Arise’s producer, Yusuke Tomizawa, recently discussed the challenges of bringing these older games to Western audiences. While the desire to localize them exists, there are several factors to consider. In this article, we will delve into the complexities surrounding the localization of older Tales games and the need to cater to both newcomers and long-time fans.
Tomizawa acknowledges that the team at Bandai Namco has always had the idea of bringing older Tales games to new audiences. However, it is not a simple matter of just providing a direct translation. The question arises: what are the best formats and platforms to deliver these games? Additionally, should the content be updated to fit the current gaming landscape? These considerations highlight the complexity of the localization process and the need to carefully assess how to present the older games to a new generation of players.
With the release of Tales of Arise, there is an influx of newcomers to the franchise. Tomizawa emphasizes the importance of fostering these newcomers and providing them with access to the full catalog of Tales games. While the desire to bring older games to Western audiences is evident, it is crucial to ensure that newcomers have a seamless experience and can fully appreciate the older titles. This requires a comprehensive localization effort that takes into account the expectations and preferences of new players.
One hurdle in localizing older Tales games is the constraint of outdated platforms. Titles like Tales of Eternia and Tales of Legendia are confined to the PSP and PS2, respectively. The challenge lies in finding a way to make these games accessible on modern platforms without compromising their integrity. Additionally, the closure of Nintendo’s 3DS eShop further complicates matters, as it limits the availability of games like Tales of the Abyss in the West. Overcoming these technical limitations is crucial in order to bring the full Tales experience to Western audiences.
DLC and Expansion
The release of Tales of Arise: Beyond the Dawn, a paid-for expansion, surprised many fans who were initially told there would be no DLC or expansion for the game. This change in direction demonstrates the flexibility of the development team and their willingness to adapt to the demands and desires of the player base. With this in mind, there is hope that Bandai Namco may reconsider their stance on bringing older Tales games to the West and explore the possibility of expanding the franchise further.
The Way Forward
While there are currently no plans for a Tales of Arise sequel, the discussions surrounding the localization of older games show that Bandai Namco is open to revisiting past titles. The challenges of localization and catering to both newcomers and long-time fans are significant, but not insurmountable. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers to adapt and find innovative ways to introduce older games to new audiences. Balancing nostalgia with modern gaming expectations will be key in successfully bringing the Tales series to Western audiences.
The desire to localize older Tales games for Western audiences is evident, but the process is not without its challenges. From technical limitations to catering to newcomers, there are several factors to consider. However, with the right approach and adaptation, it is possible to bridge the gap and provide a full localization of these classic titles. The Tales series has a dedicated fan base that deserves the opportunity to experience the franchise in its entirety. With the evolving landscape of gaming, the future is promising for the localization of older Tales games.
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