Today’s post is a small one, and covers a reader request to look into the Luigi cap description from user @technickal101 on twitter.
I haven’t gained access to it myself in game yet, but they helpfully sent a shot of the Japanese text too, so let’s take a look.
| Japanese | Lit. Translation | Official Localization |
| あざやかなグリーンの 定番キャスケット
あざやかなグリーンの 定番スタイル |
A vivid green version of the ordinary hat.
A vivid green version of the ordinary style. |
The standard cap in a vivid green. The L stands for “winner.”A bright green version of an established classic. Green means “let’s-a go”! |
Like we have seen before when comparing this game’s localization, the Japanese is simply stating something as it is, where as the localization is adding a certain flair to it.
You can see the localization kept the meaning of the original lines with, as they kept the “vivid” (or bright, a synonym) green description. The “standard” cap came from “ordinary.” The “established classic” was a more fancy way of saying the “ordinary style.”
The secondary lines are purely localization, however, with the “L stands for winner” and such. In doing so they create a more “fun” flair to it.
It’s possible the Japanese one, though an ordinary description, maybe poking fun at how Luigi was originally simply the green Mario and nothing more. But it’s more likely just stating things as it is for no need for flair.
It’s pretty straightforward, I wonder if the other descriptions are as colorful? Or was it just due to being the Luigi outfit?
Update:
Twitter readers have pointed out it could be a purposeful reference to the following exchange in Smash Bros for Wii U:
- Viridi: …Too bad about that unfortunate L on his forehead…
- Pit: I’m sure that stands for winner.
Though now I wonder what the above conversation was in Japanese… in fact I ought to look into all the Smash Bros one sometime…
In short:
The Luigi outfit description is more colorful in the localization. Two lines (one for each) has been added, exclusive to the localization. It’s possible the more straightforward Japanese description is poking fun at Luigi simply being “green Mario,” but that may also be reading too deeply into it. Straightforward case of localization adding “flair.”
Which do you like better? It really comes down to personal preference!
Summary infographic:
That’s that!
I will continue to look at fun differences between the versions of sorts of games when I get time!
Any dialogue you’re interested in? Feel free to send in comments or via email!
