English as Foreign Language Learners’ Strategies for Translating In-Game Texts

Abstract

This qualitative study investigates the strategies that Indonesian EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners use to translate English texts within online games. As digital games have become a widespread form of entertainment, they also provide opportunities for incidental language learning and informal translation practice. The English texts found in games—including instructions, dialogues, and item descriptions—require players to interpret meaning in real time, often without formal language instruction. Using open-ended questionnaires, the study collected data from ten purposively selected participants who regularly play online games. The findings identify four dominant translation strategies: contextual guessing, using digital translation tools, cultural interpretation and adaptation, and motivation-driven language engagement. The most common strategy was contextual guessing, which involved using narrative and visual cues. This was closely followed by the use of digital tools like Google Translate and online dictionaries. The study also found that some learners used more advanced strategies, such as adapting idioms and culturally specific expressions to retain their original meaning in Indonesian. Furthermore, learners' intrinsic motivation—whether to succeed in the game or to improve their English skills—played a significant role in encouraging them to engage with the language. The study concludes that online gaming environments can foster authentic language exposure, promote problem-solving skills in translation, and enhance learners' linguistic and cultural awareness. These insights suggest that game-based contexts could be a valuable tool for EFL educators and curriculum designers, complementing traditional methods for teaching translation and language competence in informal settings.