> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.vntranslator.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.vntranslator.com/user-guide/autotrans.md). # AutoTrans ## How to Translate Games with AutoTrans AutoTrans applies real-time translation directly inside a game while you play, with no text floating outside the game window. {% hint style="info" %} AutoTrans is an exclusive feature of the Pro Version. {% endhint %} {% embed url="" %} {% hint style="info" %} AutoTrans may not work with all games and can affect performance. Because it translates text in real time within the game, you may experience lag while the game waits for translation responses. This can cause lower frame rates or brief delays during gameplay. {% endhint %} ### Supported Game Engines * RenPy 8.x * RenPy 7.x * RenPy 6.99.x * RPG Maker MV * RPG Maker MZ * Tyrano Builder * Kirikiri (Experimental) *** ### Getting Started

VNTranslator Launcher

1. Select **AutoTrans** from the module list 2. Click **Browse** and select the game executable 3. Click the **Start** button to launch the game with AutoTrans {% hint style="info" %} **Important:** AutoTrans does not create translation patches for games. The translations are injected directly into the game in real time. This means you need to run the game through AutoTrans each time you want to play with translations enabled. {% endhint %} *** ### Features
FeatureDescription
Translation ModeSwitch between real-time translation modes, including cached, non-cached, and RenPy-specific compatibility modes
Translation SettingsFilter which text gets translated by character or word count, and adjust line breaks, word wrap, and excluded strings
ModsCustomize RenPy dialogue box, text, and font styling, or apply RPG Maker MV/MZ gameplay mods
Font ReplacementFix blank boxes, question marks, or missing characters caused by fonts that don't support the translated language
Extract & TranslatePre-translate all game text before playing instead of translating in real time, reducing lag
Steam ConnectLaunch DRM-protected Steam games through the Steam client instead of directly from the executable
For a full walkthrough of the AutoTrans interface, including the Translation Editor, Import/Export Translation Memory, and other in-game controls, see [Interface Overview](/user-guide/autotrans/interface-overview.md). *** ### Tips for Better Performance * **Use Translation Filters** to skip translating UI elements and translate only dialogue text * **Choose a faster translation service** - Google Lite is typically the fastest option for text-heavy games * **Keep Translation Cache enabled** so repeated lines don't need to be translated again * **Reuse Translation Memory** by exporting it after playing and importing it next time * **Use Extract & Translate** for the smoothest experience, since it pre-translates all text before you play *** ### FAQ: Using AutoTrans
What is AutoTrans? AutoTrans is a VNTranslator feature that translates game dialogue in real time, applying the translation directly inside the game while you play, without floating windows or overlays.
Is AutoTrans available in the free version? No. AutoTrans is an exclusive feature of the Pro Version.
Why is my game lagging with AutoTrans, and how do I fix it? Real-time translation needs a moment to send text, get a translation response, and display it, which can cause lag, especially with text-heavy screens. Using Translation Filters, a faster translation service, Translation Cache, or Extract & Translate can all help. See [How Can I Improve Game Speed in AutoTrans?](/user-guide/autotrans/faq/how-can-i-improve-game-speed-in-autotrans.md) for details.
Does AutoTrans create a permanent translation patch? No. AutoTrans injects translations directly into the game in real time rather than generating a translation file, so you need to run the game through AutoTrans each time you want translations active.
The translated text shows blank boxes or question marks instead of characters - how do I fix this? This usually happens when the game's default font doesn't support the translated language. Use [Font Replacement](/user-guide/autotrans/font-replacement.md) to switch to a font that displays the translated text correctly.
Can I customize how translations look or behave? Yes. [Translation Mode](/user-guide/autotrans/translation-mode.md) controls how translations are processed, [Translation Settings](/user-guide/autotrans/translation-settings.md) controls what gets translated and how it's formatted, and [Mods](/user-guide/autotrans/mods.md) can adjust dialogue box and text styling for supported engines.
Can I use AutoTrans with DRM-protected Steam games? Yes. Some Steam games require the Steam client to be running and won't launch directly from their executable file. [Steam Connect](/user-guide/autotrans/steam-connect.md) lets AutoTrans launch the game through Steam instead.