Gaming culture: e-sports, pro gamers, etc.: Gaming terms are banned here

The gaming world is full of English terms that are part of the repertoire of almost anyone with even the slightest interest in the subject. In one country these should now disappear.

Those who are interested in computer and video games should have internalized terms from the English-speaking world long ago. It doesn’t matter whether it’s about genre names (Jump’n’ Run, Adventure, RPG), groups of people (gamers) or hardware and software names – English is simply everywhere in this sphere. In France, however, the many terms seem to be a thorn in the side of decision-makers. That’s why they decided to replace them with French ones.

France replaces several English gaming terms

Like the mirror, among other things reportedthe commission for the enrichment of the French language has taken on the topic. In a published PDF numerous well-known terms were recorded, which now officially have a counterpart in the national language.

These include common terms such as early access, e-sports, streamers and more. The new French-language equivalents are to be used primarily in authorities and state institutions and their publications. Its use is therefore binding for their employees. It is one of the Commission’s tasks to promote the French language, for example in science and technology.

Ease of understanding for non-gamers

According to a statement from the AFP press agency (via The Guardians) one of the reasons for this decision should be the fact that many technical terms from the games industry would represent a barrier for outsiders. According to the French Ministry of Culture, experts have searched websites and magazines for terms and checked whether there are already alternatives or not.

The aim is to achieve better communication within the population. However, it is doubtful whether the new designations will also prevail in general usage. Not only have English been established for a long time, especially in online games, where people from all over the world come together, it is simply easier and also necessary to communicate in English.