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Using in Games

Lookupper is a language learning tool for PC and Mac users, particularly gamers. It helps you learn a new language by interacting with the content on your computer. I came up with Lookupper when I was playing Disco Elysium in English and got frustrated with constantly switching to a translator for unfamiliar words or phrases.

This guide will use the PC version of Lookupper and Disco Elysium as game example. The macOS version is similar but has fewer features. Currently, the Mac version lacks the Lookupper Dictionary, Translator, and Anki exporting.

Download Lookupper (if you haven’t yet)​

Initial Setup​

Lookupper Language Select

  1. After installation, you'll see onboarding screens.
  2. Select the target language (the language you want to learn) and the language for translations (your native language).
  3. Press Ctrl + D to start looking up words. You are now ready to go. To start language learning through the game, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose a suitable game​

The best games for language learning have lots of text and let you take your time reading it.

👍 Recommended games: Disco Elysium, Fallout 1-2, Baldur’s Gate 3, 80 Days. ❌ Unsuitable games: Call of Duty, Counter-Strike, Need for Speed.

Step 2: Change the game language​

Set the game language to your target language in the game settings or Steam settings. Since we want to immerse ourselves in the foreign language, everything should be in that language.

Step 3: Set up Lookupper dictionaries​

Choose the best option for your needs:

  1. Offline Dictionaries: If you’re proficient in the target language or playing offline, opt for offline dictionaries. Install your preferred ones. Arrange dictionaries according to your preference, with the bilingual dictionary ideally placed at the end of the list.
  2. Lookupper Dictionary: For an easier experience, use the AI-powered Lookupper Dictionary, designed specifically for learning through games. Currently, it’s available only on Windows. Keep only this dictionary enabled.
  3. Translator: Use a translator as a last resort for complex phrases or when other dictionaries don’t suffice. Available only on Windows.

Windows-Specific Setup​

  • Enable Borderless Window mode for your game to ensure that the Lookupper pop-up can open. Fullscreen games can block other windows from appearing on top of them.

Step 4: Play Using Lookupper​

Lookupper in Disco Elysium

  1. Run the game and play as you usually do.
  2. If you encounter an unfamiliar word or phrase, hover over it and press Ctrl + D to look it up.
  3. Try to understand the word and the meaning of the sentence.
  4. Don’t stress about understanding every sentence; enjoy the game and let learning happen naturally.

Step 5: Review your words​

The words you looked up are automatically saved in the Saved Words tab of Lookupper. When you finish playing and have free time, revisit this page to check how well you remember the words.

Step 6: (Bonus) Memorize your words using Anki (requires Lookupper Pro)​

With a Lookupper Pro subscription, you can automatically create Anki cards for memorization and expanding your vocabulary. For more information, refer to the guide: Maximize Your Language Progress: Lookupper’s Saved Words and Anki Integration

Tips and Tricks​

  • The Lookupper Dictionary helps you learn words by providing definitions in the target language. If you still don’t understand a word after seeing the definition, you can reveal the translation.

Troubleshooting on Windows​

  • Lookup popup not opens: Use Borderless Window mode on Windows to prevent the game from blocking Lookupper.
  • Wrong words: Sometimes, the OCR engine might struggle with text in certain games, causing words to be detected incorrectly. To fix this, try adjusting the OCR performance mode. Set it to “Balance” or “Accuracy” and see if that helps. If you still run into problems, keep tweaking the settings until you find the right balance for better recognition.
  • Scrolling lookup window also occurs in game: This can happen with some games. Currently, the only workaround is to avoid scrolling the lookup window with the mouse wheel. You can also set just the Lookupper Dictionary or Translator, as they have short content that doesn't require scrolling.