1. What languages do you speak?
My native language is Russian, I use English everyday as my main language, and currently I’m thinking about taking up one more language.
2. How and why did you become a translator?
First of all, I learned English just because I wanted to play games. When I was 13, I had a copy of Metal Gear Solid 3 which was never officially translated into Russian, and I really wanted to know what was happening in the game, so I guess I had no other choice but to learn the language during my playthrough. I can say for sure that this game was the main reason I learned English and decided that I wanted to work as a translator.
3. What do you like most about being a part of the EC Innovations’ Community? / What do you enjoy most about working with EC Innovations?
I really like how helpful and attentive your managers are. I can always ask for references and reach out to get any kind of assistance if needed. You’ve really got a great atmosphere!
4. How has your localization project manager helped you to do your best work?
I know that I can always count on your managers, especially Eurus, Spencer and Jin. They understand the specifics of game localization and are always ready to help with deadlines and questions for developers. I wish all the managers in other studios were like you guys ?
5. What’s the most interesting content you’ve translated?
Well, I have a lot to remember. You can find my name in the credits for Cyberpunk 2077. Although it wasn’t an ECI project, I still remember it as it was the most challenging job I ever had. As for ECI projects, well… I had a chance (and honor!) to work on a very famous Japanese slasher/RPG which is about to be released on Nintendo Switch. I’m not sure whether I can name the game right here, but this project was a bomb, and I’m happy to be a part of it.
6. What skills do you find critical to be an excellent translator?
Hands down knowing your native language. If you don’t know an English phrase, that’s not a problem, as you always have plenty of dictionaries available. But if you can’t write fluently in your native language, then it’s a tragedy for any reviewer. Please focus on your native language fluency, read more and play more games in translation just to see how others solve the same problems that you can face.
7. What is your favorite non-English word and why is it your favorite?
I like the word ‘polako’. It comes from Serbian, and it means ‘slowly’, ‘easy’, and ‘gradually’, but neither of these words is anywhere close to the actual meaning of this one. ‘Polako’ is the way of living in Southern countries: anything can wait, and there’s nothing more important than a cup of your morning coffee. I used to live in a cold country before, and now I moved to Armenia, a very warm country which lives according to the ‘polako’ principle. As far as I see, this principle is quite universal for Spain, Portugal, Serbia and Armenia. Don’t worry, I’ll do it, but later – and slowly, because there’s no reason to hurry. Honestly, this way of living is killing me ?
8. What do you like to do outside of work? How do you achieve work-life balance?
Well, that’s hard, because I really know how emotional burnout feels like. I’m slowly learning how to relax and find free time for myself. Obviously, I like videogames, especially Dark Souls series, and pen & paper RPGs. My favorite is Cyberpunk RED. I also play a little bit of Irish traditional music on an Irish bouzouki, and it is so cool!
9. Things that visitors to your area should not miss?
Obviously the Sevan Lake! It’s enormous, very clean and tranquil. You’ll like it! Also please visit Dilijan, it’s a wonderful city hidden between trees and mountains.
10. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received? / What advice would you give to translators who are just starting out?
Don’t be afraid to be daring. Everybody has to start somewhere, and if you want to translate videogames, then go ahead: make a CV, join a fan localization team, apply for freelance jobs – and do it with love. If you don’t really like games, you won’t stay in localization. This job is only for those who are totally crazy about videogames.
