Guidelines for Citing Video Games in MLA Format- A Comprehensive Guide
How do I cite a video game in MLA? This is a common question among students and researchers who are new to the MLA citation style. Citing video games in MLA can be a bit tricky, as the format may differ depending on the specific details of the game. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to properly cite a video game in MLA format.
Video games have become an integral part of popular culture and academic research. With the increasing number of studies focusing on video games, it is essential to know how to cite them correctly in MLA format. The MLA citation style is widely used in the humanities and social sciences, and it is important to follow the guidelines to ensure your work is properly credited and to maintain academic integrity.
To cite a video game in MLA format, you will need to include the following information:
1. Author: The name of the game’s creator(s) or designer(s). If the game does not have a credited author, you can omit this section.
2. Title: The title of the video game, italicized.
3. Publisher: The name of the company that published the game.
4. Publication Date: The year the game was released.
5. Medium: The format of the game, such as “video game” or “CD-ROM.”
Here is an example of how to cite a video game in MLA format:
For example:
Nintendo. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo, 2017). Video game.
If the game has multiple creators or designers, list their names in alphabetical order, separated by commas. If the game has a subtitle, include it after the main title, separated by a comma.
When citing a video game that is part of a series, include the series name in parentheses after the title. For example:
Nintendo. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (The Legend of Zelda series) (Nintendo, 2017). Video game.
If you are citing a specific version of the game, such as a remastered or re-released version, include the version name after the title, separated by a comma. For example:
Nintendo. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Nintendo Switch version) (Nintendo, 2017). Video game.
Remember to include the medium “video game” to distinguish it from other types of media.
In conclusion, citing a video game in MLA format involves including the author, title, publisher, publication date, and medium. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your work is properly credited and that you maintain academic integrity in your research.