Translate a RimWorld mod from scratch

For most users, the intended path is the desktop project workflow. PO is optional.

Desktop workflow

1. Open RimLoc and choose New translation.
2. Select the RimWorld mod/source.
3. Choose target locale(s).
4. Translate directly in the workspace.
5. Review source/context and glossary/TM suggestions where available.
6. Run validation.
7. Build/export to an isolated output directory.
8. Test the translation in RimWorld.

The original source should remain read-only.

CLI workflow

If you prefer automation:

rimloc-cli scan --root ./Mods/MyMod --format json
rimloc-cli validate --root ./Mods/MyMod

Optional PO handoff

rimloc-cli export-po \
  --root ./Mods/MyMod \
  --out-po ./work/MyMod.ru.po \
  --lang ru

Translate externally, then validate/import on a working copy.

No-PO build

If you already have translated Languages XML:

rimloc-cli build-mod \
  --from-root ./work/MyTranslatedMod \
  --out-mod ./dist/MyMod-RU \
  --lang ru \
  --dry-run

Before publishing

• validate placeholders/tags;
• inspect changed-source entries;
• run a real game check;
• keep the source mod untouched;
• save diagnostics if something behaves unexpectedly.

See Getting started and Translator guide.