Properly crediting sources is a cornerstone of academic integrity, and this extends to interactive entertainment. The Modern Language Association (MLA) style provides specific guidelines for acknowledging video games within scholarly work. The core elements generally include the game’s title, the platform it was played on, the developer, the publisher, and the year of release. For example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Nintendo Switch. Nintendo EPD Production Group No. 3, Nintendo, 2017.
Accurate source citation demonstrates responsible scholarship, preventing plagiarism and giving appropriate credit to the creators of the work being referenced. It also allows readers to locate the referenced material, supporting further research and analysis. Historically, the need to adapt citation styles to emerging media has been a recurring challenge, requiring constant updates and revisions to established guidelines to remain relevant.
This discussion will explore the components of a complete video game citation according to MLA guidelines, address variations based on access method and specific game elements, and offer practical examples to ensure clarity and consistency in academic writing.
1. Game Title
The game title serves as the primary identifier for any video game citation, acting as the gateway to locating the specific work being referenced. Without an accurate title, readers cannot effectively identify and access the source material for verification or further study. Its accurate placement within a citation is crucial for adhering to the MLA guidelines.
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Proper Capitalization and Italics
MLA style requires that the title of a video game be italicized, signaling to the reader that it is a standalone work. All significant words within the title should be capitalized, following standard title case conventions. For instance, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt demonstrates correct formatting. Incorrect capitalization or failure to italicize can lead to confusion and detract from the citation’s professionalism.
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Subtitles and Colons
Many games include subtitles that provide further context or detail. When present, subtitles must be included in the citation, separated from the main title by a colon and a space. Using the previous example, the colon correctly separates the main title, “The Witcher 3,” from its subtitle, “Wild Hunt.” Omission of the subtitle or incorrect punctuation diminishes the clarity of the reference.
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Accurate Spelling and Punctuation
Maintaining the original spelling and punctuation of the game’s title is essential, even if it deviates from standard grammatical conventions. Some titles intentionally employ unconventional spelling or punctuation for stylistic effect. Replicating these nuances accurately is a matter of precision and respect for the work’s artistic intent. For example, if a game’s title is intentionally stylized as “DOOM Eternal,” the citation must reflect this exactly.
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Foreign Titles and Translations
When citing a game with a foreign title, it may be necessary to include a translation in brackets after the original title, particularly if the work is not widely known in English-speaking contexts. This helps English-speaking readers understand the game’s subject matter. For example, if citing “Persona 5” (5), it may be useful to include “[Persona 5]” afterwards for clarity.
The game title is more than just a label; it is a critical element in correctly citing video games. Adhering to MLA standards for capitalization, italics, subtitles, spelling, and handling foreign titles is vital for producing accurate and professional academic work. Consistency in these details ensures the citation is both informative and reliable, facilitating effective communication within the scholarly community.
2. Platform Specified
Specifying the platform is an essential component when citing interactive digital entertainment. This detail is vital for accurately referencing the source, as game content and functionality can vary across different platforms. This differentiation directly impacts the precision and reliability of source documentation.
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Version Variations
Different platforms often host distinct versions of the same game, with variations in graphics, gameplay mechanics, and available content. For example, a game on a high-end PC might feature enhanced visual fidelity compared to its counterpart on a mobile device. Including the platform in the citation indicates which specific version was used, mitigating potential discrepancies in analysis or interpretation.
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Platform-Exclusive Content
Some games feature content exclusive to certain platforms. This may include additional levels, characters, or features not available on other versions. Without specifying the platform, readers may be unable to locate or verify the content referenced in the academic work. Accurate citation, therefore, requires explicit mention of the platform to avoid misrepresentation.
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Emulation and Virtualization
Games played through emulation or virtualization software present a unique challenge for citation. In these cases, it is important to cite both the original platform and the emulation environment. For instance, stating “Super Mario 64. Nintendo 64, emulated on RetroArch” provides comprehensive information regarding the game’s provenance and the method of access.
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Digital Distribution Specifics
Games acquired through digital distribution platforms, such as Steam or the PlayStation Network, may undergo updates or modifications over time. Including the platform helps establish the specific version accessed at the time of analysis. This is especially important for games with significant post-release updates that alter gameplay or content.
The specification of the platform is integral to the methodology of correctly citing interactive digital entertainment. It provides necessary context about the game’s version, content, and access method. Providing this information promotes transparency and ensures the reproducibility of research findings.
3. Developer Credited
Crediting the developer is a critical component when citing interactive digital entertainment in MLA style. The developer, the entity responsible for the game’s creation and programming, deserves recognition for its intellectual property. Including the developer’s name in a citation acknowledges this creative input and assists in distinguishing between games with similar titles or concepts. Omitting this information can lead to a misattribution of authorship and a lack of due credit to the individuals or teams responsible for the work.
The developer’s name is typically listed after the game’s title and platform, as it provides essential context for understanding the game’s origins. For example, citing “Portal 2. Valve, 2011″ clearly identifies Valve Corporation as the entity responsible for developing the game. In instances where multiple developers collaborated on a single game, it is appropriate to list all primary development teams, separating them with commas. This comprehensive approach provides a more accurate representation of the game’s creation process.
Acknowledging the developer is essential for academic integrity and for providing a complete and accurate citation of interactive digital entertainment. By including this information, researchers and scholars demonstrate respect for the creative efforts behind the game and facilitate the verification of sources. Accurate crediting also contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the video game industry and its evolution.
4. Publisher Listed
In the framework for properly citing interactive digital entertainment, acknowledging the publisher is a necessary component. Listing the publisher of a video game clarifies the entity responsible for its distribution and marketing, providing essential context for the source material.
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Role in Distribution and Copyright
The publisher assumes responsibility for the game’s release and distribution across various platforms and territories. The publisher typically holds the copyright or licensing rights to the game, making its identification essential for understanding the legal and commercial aspects of the work. For instance, a game published by Electronic Arts would be cited with “Electronic Arts” as the publisher.
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Differentiating Versions and Editions
Publishers may release different editions of a game, such as collector’s editions or definitive versions, each with unique content or features. Including the publisher in the citation can help differentiate between these versions. For example, a “Game of the Year” edition published by Ubisoft would be explicitly cited to avoid confusion with the original release.
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Impact on Accessibility and Availability
The publisher influences the game’s accessibility and availability to the public. Some publishers focus on niche markets, while others target a broader audience. Knowing the publisher can provide insights into the game’s intended audience and distribution strategy. For example, a game published by an indie publisher might have limited distribution channels compared to a game from a major publisher.
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Publisher Reputation and Influence
A publisher’s reputation can influence the perception and reception of a video game. Certain publishers are known for specific genres or quality standards. Including the publisher in the citation provides additional context about the game’s background and potential biases. For example, a game published by a studio renowned for open-world games may be approached with different expectations.
Listing the publisher within the citation of a video game completes the profile of its production, ensuring thoroughness and clarity. This practice supports ethical academic writing by accurately representing the source’s provenance and facilitating effective identification of the referenced material.
5. Release Year
The release year is a fundamental element in the framework for acknowledging the sources of interactive digital entertainment. It serves as a chronological marker, enabling readers to pinpoint the specific version or iteration of a video game being referenced. Without the release year, distinguishing between remakes, remasters, or sequels becomes problematic, potentially leading to confusion and inaccuracies in scholarly discourse.
The impact of the release year extends beyond mere identification. It provides context regarding the technological capabilities, design trends, and cultural landscape prevalent during the game’s development. For instance, a game released in 2005 would reflect different graphical capabilities and design sensibilities compared to one released in 2023. Including the release year allows readers to understand the game within its historical context. Consider the example of citing two versions of Resident Evil; stating both the 1996 and 2002 release years for the original and the remake respectively, would clarify what specific product is discussed.
In sum, the release year is an indispensable component when determining “how to cite a video game in mla.” It ensures accurate identification, provides crucial contextual information, and supports academic rigor. Omission of this detail undermines the credibility and clarity of the citation, highlighting the practical significance of adhering to established citation guidelines. Ensuring the correct listing of this attribute leads to a complete, thorough report.
6. Access Method
The method by which a video game is accessed is a critical element influencing its citation within the Modern Language Association (MLA) style. Access method specifies how the game was obtained and played, impacting the citation format and the information required for proper attribution. For example, a game played via a physical cartridge or disc necessitates a different citation format compared to a game accessed through a digital distribution platform or a streaming service. Failure to specify the access method can result in incomplete or misleading citations, hindering the reader’s ability to locate the precise source material.
Consider the difference between citing a physical copy of Super Mario Odyssey (Nintendo Switch) and a digital download of the same game purchased through the Nintendo eShop. The physical copy citation may simply require the platform and release year. However, the digital download citation should include the platform (Nintendo Switch) and ideally reference the distribution platform (Nintendo eShop) or indicate that it was digitally downloaded, if a more specific platform isn’t available. Similarly, if a game is accessed through a subscription service like Xbox Game Pass, this information should be included to clarify the means of access. These distinctions are vital as they influence the permanence and potential updates applied to the game.
Acknowledging the means of access contributes to the transparency and accuracy of academic work. As video games increasingly rely on digital distribution and streaming, it becomes imperative to include details about the access method within MLA citations. The evolving landscape of game accessibility demands constant adaptation and refinement of citation practices to maintain scholarly integrity. Without specifying the access method, citations risk becoming incomplete, misleading readers and diminishing the quality of academic research.
7. Specific Elements
The citation of specific elements within a video game is a nuanced aspect of source acknowledgment. When academic analysis focuses on particular aspects of a game, such as character dialogue, level design, or musical scores, it becomes necessary to cite those elements with precision. This practice ensures that readers can accurately locate and verify the cited information within the larger work. Citing specific elements differs significantly from simply citing the game as a whole, requiring a more detailed and contextual approach. The level of detail included depends on the nature and scope of the academic analysis.
Accurately citing these details requires a specific methodology. For example, when quoting dialogue, the character and location must be specified. For example, citing “Would you kindly? (Atlas, Rapture Central Control)” from BioShock is substantially more informative than merely citing the game. Similarly, when discussing level design, referencing a specific level name or area within the game is necessary. When citing musical scores, the composer and track title should be included, even if the score is only available within the game itself. Such practices elevate the academic work’s precision, transparency, and utility. Without clear identification of specific components, readers cannot effectively assess the accuracy of the analysis or replicate the research.
In conclusion, the citation of specific elements is a critical aspect of properly crediting interactive digital entertainment. It highlights the importance of going beyond general game citations to acknowledge and attribute the specific components upon which analysis is based. This approach contributes to the overall rigor and credibility of the academic work, enabling readers to engage with the analysis on a more informed and verifiable basis. Challenges arise from the lack of standardized naming conventions within games, requiring researchers to adopt consistent and precise descriptive strategies.
8. MLA Format
MLA format functions as the prescriptive framework governing how sources, including interactive digital entertainment, are acknowledged in scholarly writing. The connection between MLA format and the act of documenting interactive digital entertainment is direct and causal; compliance with MLA guidelines is the mechanism through which responsible crediting is achieved. MLA provides specific directives concerning the structure and components of a proper acknowledgement, ranging from the proper italicization of titles to the required inclusion of publisher and release year. These directives are not arbitrary; they are designed to provide sufficient information for readers to locate and verify the cited material.
The significance of MLA format as a component when acknowledging a video game is demonstrated by its standardization of information. The format dictates a specific order and presentation for elements such as the title, platform, developer, publisher, and release year. For instance, a game citation in MLA format will typically list the game title in italics, followed by the platform, developer, publisher, and release year, each separated by appropriate punctuation. This consistency allows readers familiar with MLA conventions to quickly identify the essential information and differentiate it from other elements. Deviation from these conventions can lead to ambiguity and hinder the reader’s ability to locate the cited source. Without consistent implementation and recognition of these formats, proper citations will be less common.
In summary, understanding and applying MLA format is not merely an exercise in stylistic adherence; it is a fundamental requirement for ethical and effective academic communication. MLA format provides the rules and procedures; those rules and procedures must be observed, in a rigid manner, so that any academic work that cites a videogame is accurate. While challenges may arise in adapting MLA guidelines to the evolving landscape of interactive digital entertainment, consistent application of the core principles remains essential for maintaining scholarly rigor. In other words, if you want “how to cite a video game in mla,” observe all rules and structures of MLA format.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries and ambiguities regarding proper citation of video games using MLA guidelines.
Question 1: Is it necessary to include the platform when citing a video game?
Yes, specifying the platform is crucial because game content and functionality can vary significantly across different platforms. This specificity helps readers identify the precise version of the game being referenced.
Question 2: How should the developer and publisher be listed if they are the same entity?
When the developer and publisher are the same, the entity’s name is listed once, following the game’s title and platform. Redundant listing is unnecessary.
Question 3: Should the release date of the original game or the version being played be used?
The release year of the specific version being played or analyzed should be cited. If the version is a remaster, remake, or special edition, cite the release year of that version, not the original.
Question 4: What information is required when citing a game accessed through a digital distribution platform?
Besides the game’s title, platform, developer, publisher, and release year, including the name of the digital distribution platform (e.g., Steam, PlayStation Network) is advisable, if readily available and pertinent to the citation.
Question 5: How should a specific element within a video game, such as a level or character, be cited?
Cite the specific element by providing its name or description, along with the game title. Include any relevant context that helps readers locate the element within the game, such as chapter number or in-game location.
Question 6: Is it appropriate to cite a video game walkthrough or strategy guide?
Yes, walkthroughs or strategy guides can be cited if they directly inform the analysis. Cite them as you would any other type of source, including the author (if known), title, publisher, and publication date.
Proper citation of video games according to MLA guidelines demonstrates academic integrity and allows readers to verify the sources used in scholarly work. Adherence to these guidelines ensures clarity and consistency in academic communication.
The next section will discuss future trends in citing interactive media.
Tips for Citing Video Games in MLA Style
Accurate source documentation is paramount in academic writing. Proper citation of interactive digital entertainment using MLA guidelines requires strict adherence to formatting conventions and attention to detail. The following tips offer guidance on achieving accurate and professional citations of video games.
Tip 1: Prioritize Accuracy in Game Titles: Ensure the game title is spelled and punctuated exactly as it appears on the game’s packaging or official website. Pay close attention to capitalization and the inclusion of subtitles.
Tip 2: Consistently Identify Platforms: Always specify the platform on which the game was played (e.g., PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC). This detail helps readers understand potential variations in content and presentation.
Tip 3: Credit Developers and Publishers Appropriately: Include both the developer and publisher of the game in the citation. Research these entities carefully, as the information may not always be readily apparent.
Tip 4: Use the Correct Release Year: Cite the release year of the specific version of the game being referenced. If the version is a remaster, remake, or special edition, cite the release year of that version.
Tip 5: Specify Access Methods Clearly: Indicate how the game was accessed (e.g., physical copy, digital download from Steam, streamed via PlayStation Plus). This information helps readers understand the game’s provenance.
Tip 6: Cite Specific Game Elements Precisely: When referencing specific game elements, provide enough detail to allow readers to locate the referenced material. Include level names, character names, or in-game locations as appropriate.
Tip 7: Consult the MLA Handbook or Style Manual: Refer to the latest edition of the MLA Handbook for detailed guidance on citing various types of sources, including video games. These resources provide definitive answers to complex citation questions.
Accurate and consistent application of these tips ensures that video game citations adhere to the standards of academic integrity. Proper citation allows readers to verify the sources used and fosters clear communication within scholarly discourse.
The subsequent section will explore the future of source citation in the digital age.
Conclusion
This exploration of “how to cite a video game in mla” has detailed the essential elements and formatting conventions necessary for proper source acknowledgement. Accurate game title transcription, platform specification, crediting developers and publishers, listing the release year, and clarifying access methods are all critical components. By adhering to these guidelines, academic work involving interactive digital entertainment maintains integrity and provides verifiable references.
As the presence and cultural significance of video games continue to expand, rigorous and consistent citation practices will become increasingly important. Scholars must remain vigilant in adapting citation methodologies to accommodate evolving forms of interactive media, thereby ensuring that contributions to this dynamic field are properly attributed and accessible for future research.
