As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the release of Path of Exile 2, discussions are growing around the game's localization and the potential support for various languages, including Russian. Players and fans of the franchise advocate for wider language support to enhance accessibility for non-English speaking players.

Why Language Support is Important

Many players argue that supporting additional languages is crucial for attracting new players, especially in regions where English isn't the primary language spoken. A Reddit user mentioned, "I believe that supporting more languages is one of the best ways to make the game more accessible" (source). They highlighted that while they personally prefer playing in English, they have friends who struggle with the language, and this significantly impacts their ability to engage with the game.

Russian players have been vocal about the need for better localization. A dedicated thread on Reddit discussed how certain terms and names in the Russian version of the game are inconsistently translated, making navigation and understanding mechanics challenging. For instance, a unique item like "Giantsbane" has different translations between the game's Wiki and in-game, leading to confusion among players (source).

Community Feedback on Russian Localization

The Russian-speaking community's request for improved translation and localization has prompted discussions about the quality of translations currently in place. Instances of awkward wording and lack of consistency have led some players to resort back to the English version despite their preference for their native language. Feedback suggested maintaining the original English names for skills and items to facilitate smoother communication and understanding among players, regardless of the localization they choose (source).

The Case for Expanding Language Support

Various language support advocates believe that adding more languages, including Polish and Russian, will help to promote the game, citing that many players feel excluded due to the language barrier. A Polish player expressed that many may want to engage deeply with the lore and mechanics but feel handicapped by their English skills (source). Others mentioned the existing regional pricing models and how the differing economic backgrounds influence game accessibility (source).

Conclusion

As players voice their concerns and hopes regarding language support in Path of Exile 2, it is clear that inclusivity through language is a significant aspect that could enhance the gaming experience for many. With the game's launch approaching, it will be interesting to see how Grinding Gear Games addresses these requests and what additional support they may provide for various language communities, including Russian and Polish players. The hope is that with increased language options, the game can reach and engage a broader audience, ultimately enriching the Path of Exile community.