Sci-Fi Manga Translation Guide

When a term is completely made-up (e.g., a specific alien material or energy type), you have a few options. You can transliterate it if it sounds good and fits the genre, create a new English compound word that hints at its function, or use a descriptive phrase. The key is consistency and ensuring the meaning is clear from context, even if the term itself is new.

It depends on the author's intent. If the series explicitly highlights the survival or evolution of Japanese culture in the future, retain the specific references and add translator's notes if needed. If the cultural elements are incidental, a light localization might be appropriate to maintain accessibility without losing the original flavor. Always prioritize the narrative's core message.

Consider how the original Japanese conveys their unique speech patterns (e.g., formal language, lack of contractions, specific particles). In English, you can use precise, formal language, slightly stilted grammar, or even a particular font style in typesetting to suggest robotic speech. Avoid making them sound too human if the original implies otherwise.

Simplify only if the original Japanese also simplifies or if the complexity isn't crucial to the plot and might confuse a general audience. The goal is to accurately convey the *level* of scientific detail the author intended. If the author went deep, so should you; if they kept it vague, follow suit. Never sacrifice accuracy for simplicity without a strong reason.