how to quote a video game in an essay

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How to Cite Video Games

Last Updated: December 23, 2023

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is a wikiHow Content Creator. She specializes in reviewing, fact-checking, and evaluating wikiHow's content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Jennifer holds a JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. This article has been viewed 40,788 times. Learn more...

It's not uncommon to reference video games in research papers. Unfortunately, many of the major citation methods have not yet created a specific format to use when citing a video game. Typically, you'll be asked to include the same information you would in a citation for computer software. Include any information you think is important to enable your reader to access the same game you did. The Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychological Association (APA) and Chicago Manual of Style offer suggestions on how to format a citation for a video game.

• Example: Fortnite .

• Example: Fortnite . Battle Royale Mode, PS4 Pro, 2017.

• For example, if you discussed the score of the game "Fortnite" in your paper, you might add the name of the score's composer to your Works Cited entry: Fortnite . Battle Royale Mode, PS4 Pro, 2018. Toprak, Pinar, composer.

MLA Works Cited Format:

Title of Game . Version, Platform, Year of Release. Additional Information as Necessary.

• For example, you might write "Although originally Fortnite players only got bragging rights for reaching the maximum level, Epic Games eventually started providing additional rewards (season 6)."

• Example: God of War [Video game].

• Example: God of War [Video game]. (2018).

• Example: God of War [Video game]. (2018). San Mateo, CA: Sony Interactive Entertainment.

APA Reference List Format:

Title of Game [Video game]. (Year Released). Location: Publisher.

• If the game is available on multiple platforms, you might also want to include the platform you played the game on in your in-text parenthetical citation.

• Example: Rovio Entertainment.

• Example: Rovio Entertainment. Angry Birds Transformers . V. 1.4.25.

• Example: Rovio Entertainment. Angry Birds Transformers . V. 1.4.25. Rovio Entertainment, 2014. Android 4.0 or later.

• Example: Rovio Entertainment. Angry Birds Transformers . V. 1.4.25. Rovio Entertainment, 2014. Android 4.0 or later. Soundtrack by Vince DiCola and Kenny Meriedeth.

Chicago Style Bibliography Format:

Production Company. Title of Game . Version #. Production Company, Release Year. Platform. Other Information.

• Example: Rovio Entertainment, Angry Birds Transformers, v. 1.4.25, Rovio Entertainment, 2014, Android 4.0 or later, soundtrack by Vince DiCola and Kenny Meriedeth.

Expert Q&A

• When in doubt, ask your instructor or editor what information they want to see in your citation. You can also show them your draft citation and ask if it's sufficient. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://style.mla.org/citing-a-video-game/
• ↑ http://askus.library.wwu.edu/faq/116850
• ↑ https://blog.apastyle.org/apastyle/2015/01/how-to-cite-software-in-apa-style.html

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How to cite a video game in MLA

To cite a video game in a reference entry in MLA style 9th edition include the following elements:

• Rights-holder of the game: Give the name of the rights-holder of the game. If none, omit this part and start with the title.
• Title of the video game: Titles are italicized when independent. If part of a larger source add quotation marks and do not italize.
• Version description: Give the version number of the game and platform where it can be played.
• Publisher: Give the name of the company that produced the game if available.
• Year of publication: Give the year of publication as presented in the source.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a video game in MLA style 9th edition:

Rights-holder of the game . Title of the video game . Version Version description , Publisher , Year of publication .

Take a look at our works cited examples that demonstrate the MLA style guidelines in action:

A video game for PC without rights-holder

Fortnite: Battle Royale . Version 8.50 for Windows PC , Epic Games , 2019 .

A video game for iPhone without rights-holder

Pokémon Rumble Rush . Version 1.3.0 for iPhone , 2019 .

This citation style guide is based on the MLA Handbook (9 th edition).

More useful guides

• MLA 8: how do I cite a video game?
• How do I cite a video game in MLA?
• How to Cite a Video Game in a Bibliography

More great BibGuru guides

• AMA: how to cite a newspaper article
• Harvard: how to cite a translated book
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How to Cite a Video Game in MLA: Basic Principles With Samples

11 December 2023

last updated

The growing popularity of video games in contemporary society has made such products are common sources for researchers from various disciplines. In this case, the Modern Language Association referencing style does not provide explicit citation guidelines for such a type of source. Hence, students need to learn how to cite a video game in MLA. Then, this guide provides example-based explanations for standard in-text citation and works cited list entry formats. Also, the guide illustrates the utility of footnotes in a simulation citation.

Citing a Video Game in MLA 9

In-text citation.

• MLA allows an author to introduce makeshift locators on how to cite a video game soundtrack in MLA, but they must be consistently numbered, for example, ‘mission 2.’

Parenthetical In-Text Citation

Referring to the entire source: ( Gang Warfare )

Referring to a specific part of the source: ( Gang Warfare , level 3)

Narrative In-Text Citation

Referring to the entire source: In Gang Warfare , Jones is the most skilled marksman.

Referring to a specific part of the source: Gang Warfare has some inconsistencies in the representation of the 1700s, for example, Jones’s use of a scoped rifle (level 3).

Works Cited Entry

• Ideally, authors should provide all available elements: author, the title of the source, title of container, other contributors, version, number, publisher, publication date, and location.
• The citation structure provided below lays out the common elements of simulations.

Title of the Video Game . Version, Publisher’s Name, Publication Date.

Gang Warfare . Old-world console version, Electronic Arts, 2020.

In-Text Appearance

Modern simulations do not present an accurate representation of the world. 1

1 Misrepresentation takes the form of introducing objects or elements that did not exist in the time setting of the simulation, see Gang Warfare level 3.

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

How to cite a 10-k/annual report in apa and mla, how to write a good essay hook: 10 types with examples.

Understanding Italicization of Video Game Titles Across Different Styles

Marcus Froland

March 28, 2024

Imagine you’re typing away, your essay or article taking shape before your eyes. You’re discussing the impact of video games on modern culture, and you’ve got some killer points backed up by titles that everyone will recognize. But then, you hit a snag. How do you properly format those video game titles ? It’s a small detail, but getting it wrong could disrupt your flow and distract your readers.

In the world of writing, the devil is often in the details. And when it comes to the APA, AP, and Chicago styles , each has its own set of rules that can feel like navigating a labyrinth. You might think, “It’s just italics, right?” But, oh, it’s so much more than that. And guess what? We’ve got the map that will help you navigate this tricky terrain. But before we lay it all out, there’s one crucial twist you might not see coming.

When writing about video games in your work, how you format the titles depends on the style guide you’re following. In APA (American Psychological Association) and Chicago styles, video game titles should be in italics . These guides treat video games similarly to books and movies, which also use italicization for titles. However, the AP (Associated Press) style is different. It suggests using quotation marks instead of italics for most titles, including video games. So, if you’re writing something that adheres to AP guidelines, remember to put your game titles in “ “quotation marks” “. This distinction helps ensure your writing is properly formatted according to the specific standards of each guideline.

Introduction to Italicization in Style Guides

If you’re referencing video games in your scholarly writing, you’ll quickly find out that various style guides offer different italicization rules . These formal writing citations are critical for academic credibility and ease of understanding among peers. Whether you’re working on a research paper, an article, or a thesis, understanding the principles of these guides is indispensable for a polished and error-free presentation.

In this segment, we’ll dive into the essentials—how APA, MLA, Chicago, and AP style guides address game titles in formal writing . Your grasp of the italicization and citation rules for video games could be the difference between an exemplary manuscript and an overlooked submission. Let’s guide you through this maze of rules to ensure you navigate scholarly writing with ease.

“Mastery in referencing video games within academic writing showcases one’s commitment to the integrity and excellence of their work.”

Let’s break down the scenarios in which you’ll use italics:

• APA : The American Psychological Association demands italics for video game titles in both in-text citations and reference lists.
• MLA : Modern Language Association adheres closely to the italic use in both in-text citations and works cited entries, occasionally coupled with quotation marks.
• Chicago : The Chicago Manual of Style maintains uniformity with APA and MLA by also italics video game titles.
• AP : In contrast to the rest, the Associated Press Stylebook does not require italics but rather favors quotation marks for these titles.

To assist you further, here’s a comparative table summarizing each of the four major style guides and their italicization protocols for video games:

As you become more conversant with these styles, you’ll grow to appreciate their unique nature, which at first glance can seem like nuances but are actually essential elements of academic rigor. Below the table, find an image conceptualizing the formatting differences and enhancing your understanding of how to reference video games in style-specific writing.

Your dedication to following these guidelines speaks volumes about your attention to detail and commitment to scholarly criteria. As you carefully choose between italics and quotation marks, depending on the respective style guide, you pave the way for your work to stand in line with the highest standards of academic writing.

Embrace the rules set out by the APA, MLA, Chicago, and AP manuals, each designed to serve a distinct writing purpose, and watch as your academic documentation of video games gains unassailable credibility.

The APA Approach to Italicizing Video Game Titles

As a diligent academic writer, you’re likely aware of the various citation style requirements. With the surge in scholarly interest in digital media, understanding the intricacies of citing video games APA style has become essential. When using the APA citation format , the attention to detail in handling video game titles can greatly impact the credibility of your work.

When and Why APA Recommends Italics

In APA style , video game titles are treated as stand-alone entities, akin to books or movies. This treatment is reflected in the recommendation to use italics for these titles both within your paper’s narrative as well as on your reference list. The use of italics emphasizes that each game is a complete work, creating a distinct presence within your academic exploration. Thus, when you’re referencing a video game in APA , italics not only comply with style protocols but underline the importance of the game in your discourse.

“The application of APA’s guidelines reflects an understanding of the media being cited and lends authority to scholarly discussion within the realm of digital interactive media.”

Formatting In-Text Citations and Reference Lists in APA

Following the APA’s guidelines, your in-text citation should capture the game’s title set in italics and the year of release. This succinct approach allows readers to quickly understand the reference without cluttering the text with excessive details.

Conversely, the APA reference list format demands more information. The addition of publisher details and format particulars in the reference list entries renders it sophisticated and supportive enough for readers seeking further information. Consider this structured style for a video game reference:

The above outline affirms the use of italics in APA , particularly aligning with the capitalization rules where only the first word and proper nouns APA style are capitalized. It’s a disclaimer to the meticulous nature of APA style – every detail from the APA in-text citations to the APA publication details holds importance.

For those delving into the world of game studies or incorporating video games into broader research, adhering scrupulously to APA’s recommendations is non-negotiable. It indicates a respect for the medium and its place within academic dialogue, ultimately fortifying the integrity of your scholarship.

Quotation Marks and Italics in MLA Style

In formal writing and academic compositions, MLA style formatting plays a crucial role in maintaining uniformity and clarity. As you pen works involving digital entertainment like video games, understanding in-text citations MLA and mannerisms for your works cited MLA becomes indispensable. The nuanced rules of MLA style may influence the academic perception of your writing, marking the significance of quoting video games accurately.

Distinguishing Between In-Text Citations and Works Cited Entries

MLA style formatting marks a clear distinction between in-text citations and works cited entries. In your manuscripts, while quoting video games, the titles should usually be italicized. This includes both instances: when you mention games inline with your argumentation and when you list your sources at the manuscript’s end. Importantly, titles in the works cited entries might sometimes be accompanied by quotation marks, providing clarity and emphasis on the title within the comprehensive reference.

The Nuances of MLA Formatting for Video Game Titles

The modeling of video game references bears MLA nuances that enable the distinction of these interactive media as stand-alone programs MLA akin to novels and films. Upon engaging with MLA guidelines, you encounter a consistent theme: italicizing video game titles in the narrative but toggling between italics and quotation marks for reference lists. This reflects the formal independence of such works while ensuring depth in your citations.

To aid your understanding of how to structure in-text citations and works cited references in MLA, consider the following examples which showcase the different requirements of each:

It’s your adherence to these intricacies that communicates your academic diligence and expertise in formal writing.

“In the academic realm, proper MLA style formatting is not just recommended, it’s expected. It demonstrates respect for your discipline’s scholarship and communication traditions.”

• To quote a video game within your text, italicize the title: The influence of Fallout 4 on modern role-playing games cannot be overstated.
• For your works cited page, italicize the title and sometimes encapsulate it with quotation marks: Bethesda Game Studios, “Fallout 4,” Bethesda Softworks, 2015, PC.

Through the accurate application of MLA formatting, your work not only adheres to the highest standards of academic writing but also serves as a beacon for others navigating the nuanced world of video game citations.

Adhering to AP Style: The Exception to the Rule

If you’re working in news writing or media reporting, understanding the intricacies of AP Style formatting is critical. Unlike academic styles, AP Style offers a unique perspective on formatting titles of creative works—including video games. To meet the AP’s media reporting standards , you’ll need to wrap your head around the video game title quotation rather than italicization.

“In AP Style, video game titles are not italicized but enclosed in quotation marks, accommodating the fast-paced nature of news reporting.”

AP Style is tailored for journalism and public relations, where brevity and clarity reign supreme. In your writings, the titles of video games should be treated with quotation marks, signifying their status as standalone works without the formality of italicization found in other styles.

Let’s take a look at how AP Style stands apart:

• It maintains a streamlined approach, favoring easier readability which is crucial in news articles and press releases.
• It does away with reference lists that are a staple in academic papers, instead relying on in-text attributions to credit sources.
• Video game titles are encapsulated within quotation marks to distinguish them within the text. For instance: The latest release, “The Witcher 3,” has received widespread acclaim.

Here’s a handy comparison table outlining the different approach of AP Style:

Recognizing these distinctions is crucial when you transition between academic writing and media reporting. By adopting these AP Style guidelines , you ensure your work fits seamlessly into the journalistic landscape. Adherence to these rules reflects professionalism and understanding of the format needed for different types of writing.

Remember, the objective is not just to present information but to do so in a manner that aligns perfectly with recognized media reporting standards . The correct use of quotation marks in accordance with AP Style is a testament to your expertise in news writing and respects the nuances of video game reporting.

Navigating the Chicago Manual of Style’s Recommendations

As you delve into the academic or publishing worlds, having a firm grasp on Chicago Style references becomes paramount, especially when it comes to the realm of digital entertainment. Citing games Chicago Manual of Style offers a comprehensive and authoritative approach. It’s imperative to understand the distinction between in-text citation vs bibliography entries to maintain the accuracy and integrity of your documentation.

Chicago Style: In-Text Citations vs. Bibliography Entries

Your journey through scholarly writing necessitates the correct use of in-text citations and bibliography entries. The Chicago Manual of Style requires that you italicize video game titles in both cases, emphasizing their standalone nature and significance within your research. Let’s untangle the specifics of this style guide to enhance the precision in your writing.

“In Chicago style , completeness and clarity take precedence, anchoring your references solidly in the context of your study.”

Follow these structure pointers for Chicago Style references :

• In-text citations should be streamlined, featuring only the title in italics when mentioned within your analysis.
• Bibliography entries need to be detailed, encapsulating the full scope of publication details for comprehensiveness.

Lending to its thorough nature, Chicago Style references adhere to a structured format that builds on transparency and detalization. Here’s a breakdown of how your bibliography entries should look:

Aligning with these Chicago Style references and formats ensures that every aspect of the game you are citing is clear. This level of detail is not just about following a style guide, but it also provides your readers with the necessary information to locate and reference the game themselves—be it for academic study or personal interest.

For in-text citations, while your narrative may involve a deep analysis or critique of a game, maintain a seamless flow by italicizing the title—much like you would for a book or film. Your Chicago Style bibliography, conversely, must lead readers to the full citation effortlessly, nestled at the end of your document. The subtle differentiations between in-text citation vs bibliography contribute significantly to the accessibility and professionalism of your scholarly work.

Understand that adhering to the Chicago Manual is embracing a code of academic integrity and excellence. It’s your commitment to these details that bolsters not only your writing’s accuracy but also showcases your respect for the intellectual properties you are engaging with.

Board Games Formatting: A Comparison of Styles

As you delve into writing about board games, understanding the proper board games citation conventions across different style guides is crucial. Similar to video games, italicizing board games is a common practice in APA, Chicago, and MLA styles, reflecting their status as stand-alone works. Each of these style guides has its approach to referencing board games that can influence the presentation of your writing. Let’s compare the style guide comparisons to navigate through your citations adeptly.

“Proper citation is the cornerstone of any academic writing, and for board games, the choice between italics and quotation marks is guided by the style manual you adhere to.”

In the APA and MLA formats, the title of a board game, like ‘Monopoly’, is italicized when mentioned within the text to indicate its standalone work status. Chicago Style follows this protocol closely, ensuring that readers recognize board games as independent entities deserving of focused formatting. Interestingly, AP Style diverges from these guidelines, indicating that in the fast-paced news media world, the titles of board games aren’t italicized, possibly due to ease of reading or the nature of the writing medium.

The following table offers a rundown of how to format board game titles based on the style guide you’re working with:

When citing the perennial favorite, ‘Monopoly’, for instance, you should style it as Monopoly in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats in both your narrative text and when compiling your reference list. In contrast, AP Style would have you place “Monopoly” in quotation marks within the body of your article. By adhering to the correct guidelines for italicizing board games , you can ensure that your articles are not only accurate but also present a clear and understandable reference for your readers.

Remember, each style guide aims to offer a framework that supports clear and consistent communication across various forms of writing. While some writers may underestimate the importance of these conventions, your awareness and adherence to them will mark the quality and reliability of your work—whether it’s a scholarly article, a blog post, or a news report.

Final Considerations for Content Creators and Writers

As you weave through the intricate tapestry of style guides and editorial standards , it’s vital to remember the impact that details such as italicizing or using quotation marks can have on the integrity of your content. Whether you’re immersed in content creation best practices for academic papers or the rapid-fire news article space, adhering to writing guidelines ensures that your work doesn’t just meet the baseline—it excels.

Respecting the nuances of style guides isn’t merely a formality; it’s an essential aspect of professional communication. Knowledge and application of these conventions express the credibility of your research and cater to the expected editorial standards within your field. As you navigate APA, MLA, Chicago, and AP Style, remember that each serves a unique purpose. The choice to italicize or quote affects readability and the reception of your writing, underlining the importance of style guide adherence in content creation.

Ultimately, embracing these guidelines isn’t just about correctness—it’s about crafting your pieces with clarity and precision. Your commitment to utilizing proper formats speaks volumes about your dedication to your craft. Adopt these principles judiciously, and your content will stand as a testament to the careful thought and expertise you bring to the ever-evolving world of writing.

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• Leeds Harvard referencing examples

Leeds Harvard: Video game

Reference examples.

Title of game (edition or version). Year. Platform [Game]. Publisher: Place of publication.

Assassin's creed brotherhood (standard edition). 2011. Xbox [Game]. Ubisoft: Montreal.

Citation examples

Film, video or broadcast.

If you refer to a film, video, video game or broadcast, you should cite the title and the date.

When the title is not mentioned in the text, the citation should consist of the title and the date in brackets:

Example: The way the characters interact reveals... (The Godfather, 1972)

If you have already named the title in the text, only the year needs to be included in brackets.

Example: The way the characters interact in The Godfather (1972) reveals...

If you are referring to a particular scene or quote, you should include in the citation the times (hours, minutes and seconds) between which it takes place in the film. 

The conversation between the characters Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara reveals... (Gone with the Wind, 1939, 01:32:03-01:33:05).

Common issues

When you're referencing with Leeds Harvard you may come across issues with missing details, multiple authors, edited books, references to another author's work or online items, to name a few. Here are some tips on how to deal with some common issues when using Leeds Harvard.

Skip straight to the issue that affects you:

• Online items
• URL web addresses
• Multiple authors
• Corporate author(s) or organisation(s)
• Multiple publisher details
• Editions and reprints
• Missing details
• Multiple sources with different authors
• Sources written by the same author in the same year
• Sources with the same author in different years
• Two authors with the same surname in the same year
• The work of one author referred to by another
• Anonymising sources for confidentiality

How do I cite dialogue spoken by a character in a video game?

Note: This post relates to content in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook . For up-to-date guidance, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook .

To cite dialogue spoken by a character in a video game, transcribe the words you hear or copy the quote from the text box displaying it and enclose the words in double quotation marks. Since there are no markers indicating where in the video the dialogue appears, it can be helpful to give a general sense of where the dialogue appears:  

At the start of  Snake Pass , Doodle wakes Noodle up and tells him what’s happened: “The gate . . . the gate is broken! If we don’t fix it, we’ll be stuck here forever!”  Work Cited Snake Pass . PlayStation 4 version, Sumo Digital, 2017.

In the example above, since you have introduced the title of the video game in the sentence and since there are no page numbers or other divisions to give, you do not need to include a parenthetical citation. 

If you do not include the title of the video game in the sentence, include the title in a parenthetical citation: 

Toadsworth gives Mario a task: “Master Mario, if you would, cross over to that shore and find some assistance” ( Super Mario Sunshine ). Work Cited Super Mario Sunshine . Nintendo, 2002.

To learn more about creating works-cited-list entries for video games, see our previous post .