Eba Games, a solo indie developer based in Japan, is preparing to launch its latest title, Ball Boy Simulator, on Steam. Notably, this will be the developer's first game to include language support beyond Japanese.
While adding localization is a significant undertaking for any game, Eba Games has opted to include Czech language support in its game due to a singular fan in the Czech Republic who wishlisted the title. The developer announced on X (formerly Twitter) on August 1 that the decision was made to reciprocate the "deep respect the Czechs have shown for both baseball and Japan."
In a post translated from Japanese, Eba stated, "One day, I was looking at my wishlists, and I saw that just one person from the Czech Republic had signed up. I’m well aware of the deep respect the Czechs have shown for both baseball and Japan in recent international tournaments. That’s why—for the sake of that single baseball fan in the Czech Republic—I’m adding Czech language support. Wait for me, my Czech friend."
Despite its unassuming title, Ball Boy Simulator is a psychological horror game that explores the "harsh hierarchy and oppressive atmosphere of Japanese high school baseball clubs." The unusual premise and the developer's considerate gesture have garnered attention, potentially serving as an effective, albeit unconventional, form of public relations.