Window Titles

Localizing SDL Titles

How do I localize window titles for different languages?

Abstract art representing computer programming

Localizing window titles involves dynamically changing the text based on the user’s preferred language. SDL doesn’t provide built-in localization, so you’ll need to handle this in your application by using a translation system or resource files.

Example: Simple Localization with a Map

A straightforward way to localize window titles is by mapping language codes to translations:

#include <SDL.h>
#include <map>
#include <string>

std::string GetLocalizedTitle(
  const std::string& lang) {
  static std::map<std::string, std::string>
    translations{
      {"en", "Welcome to My Game"},
      {"es", "Bienvenido a Mi Juego"},
      {"fr", "Bienvenue dans Mon Jeu"}};
  return translations.count(lang)
           ? translations[lang]
           : translations["en"];
}

int main() {
  SDL_Init(SDL_INIT_VIDEO);

  // User's preferred language
  std::string lang = "es";

  std::string title = GetLocalizedTitle(lang);

  SDL_Window* window =
    SDL_CreateWindow(title.c_str(),
                     SDL_WINDOWPOS_CENTERED,
                     SDL_WINDOWPOS_CENTERED,
                     800, 600,
                     SDL_WINDOW_SHOWN);

  // Keep the window open for 3 seconds
  SDL_Delay(3000);

  SDL_DestroyWindow(window);
  SDL_Quit();
}
The window title will display "Bienvenido a Mi Juego" if "es" is the language.

Best Practices

  • Use External Files: Store translations in a file (e.g., JSON, XML) to make updates easier.
  • Default Language: Always fall back to a default language (like English) if the preferred language isn’t supported.
  • Testing: Test your titles in various languages, especially those with special characters, like Japanese or Arabic.

This approach ensures your window titles enhance the user experience for diverse audiences.

This Question is from the Lesson:

Window Titles

Learn how to set, get, and update window titles dynamically

Answers to questions are automatically generated and may not have been reviewed.

This Question is from the Lesson:

Window Titles

Learn how to set, get, and update window titles dynamically

sdl2-promo.jpg
Part of the course:

Game Dev with SDL2

Learn C++ and SDL development by creating hands on, practical projects inspired by classic retro games

Free, unlimited access

This course includes:

  • 67 Lessons
  • 100+ Code Samples
  • 91% Positive Reviews
  • Regularly Updated
  • Help and FAQ
Free, Unlimited Access

Professional C++

Comprehensive course covering advanced concepts, and how to use them on large-scale projects.

Screenshot from Warhammer: Total War
Screenshot from Tomb Raider
Screenshot from Jedi: Fallen Order
Contact|Privacy Policy|Terms of Use
Copyright © 2024 - All Rights Reserved