Mla Citation: Citing Video Games In Academic Work

When incorporating video games into academic work, students need to properly acknowledge their sources. MLA, Modern Language Association, provides guidelines for source citation. These guidelines ensure proper attribution and uphold academic integrity. A well-structured work cited entry contains specific elements. These elements include the game’s title, the developer, and the platform on which it was played.

Okay, gamers and game scholars, let’s talk about why nerding out over the details of video games is actually super important. We’re not just talking about knowing all the cheat codes for Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (though, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good cheat code?). We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of documenting video game information. Why, you ask? Well, grab your potion of knowledge, and let’s explore!

First up, video games are no longer just a form of entertainment; they’re becoming a serious subject of academic interest. Professors and researchers are now studying games for their narratives, mechanics, and cultural impact. Imagine trying to write a thesis on the symbolism in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild without knowing the exact release date or the correct title – talk about a quest for failure!

Next, let’s chat about citation. In the wild west of the internet, it’s easy to fall into the trap of accidental plagiarism. In gaming journalism and academic papers, accurate citations are crucial. If you’re quoting a developer about a design choice in Dark Souls, you better make sure you’ve got the right person, the right game version, and the right context!

Finally, think about preserving gaming history. Video games are a relatively young medium, but they’re evolving at warp speed. Documenting them properly is like archiving historical artifacts. We need to know what games were like, who made them, and how they were received so that future generations can understand our digital heritage. Otherwise, it’s like trying to understand the Roman Empire with only a few broken pottery shards. Without documentation, it can be hard to follow a game without being able to back it up with facts.

So, let’s level up our game documentation skills, shall we? It’s not just about knowing the lore; it’s about keeping the lore accurate and accessible for everyone!

Game Title: Getting It Right from the Start

Okay, folks, let’s talk titles. No, not the kind that get you a corner office, but the kind that slaps a name on our beloved video games. You might think, “A title is just a title, right?” Wrong! Getting the official game title down pat is super important. Think of it as the game’s full name – you wouldn’t want someone calling you “Beth” when you’re “Elizabeth,” would you? (Unless you’re into that sort of thing.)

1.1 Official Title: Where to Find It

So, where do we hunt down this elusive official title? Fear not, intrepid researchers, the clues are all around us!

• Game Box/Case: This is your first stop. The title is usually plastered right on the front (hopefully in a legible font). Give it a good look!
• Title Screen: Fire up the game! The title screen is like the game introducing itself, and it almost always shows the official title. This is about as official as it gets.
• Official Website: When in doubt, go straight to the source! The game’s official website will undoubtedly have the definitive title.
• Regional Differences: Hold on a sec! Things get a little tricky when games have different titles in different regions. For example, what one region knows as “Awesome Adventures,” another might call “Super Fun Times.” When documenting, always try to specify the region you’re referencing and its corresponding title. If you’re doing a broad overview, you can mention the variations. This helps avoid total chaos, which is always a good thing.

1.2 Why Accurate Titling is Crucial

Why all the fuss about getting the title right? Well, imagine trying to discuss your favorite game with someone, and you’re both thinking of completely different things!

• Avoiding Confusion: Incorrect titles can lead to major confusion and misidentification. You might be talking about “Space Explorers 2000,” while your friend thinks you mean “Space Explorers: Galaxy Quest.” Cue awkward silence.
• Distinguishing Similar Titles: Video game titles can be surprisingly similar. Think of all the games with “Fantasy,” “Warriors,” or “Quest” in the title. Accurate titling helps us distinguish between “Final Fantasy VII” and “Final Fantasy VII Remake,” or “Dragon Quest XI” and “Dragon Quest Builders 2.” Without proper attention to the complete and official name, you might end up comparing apples to interdimensional space squids. And nobody wants that.

Version (If Applicable): Pinpointing Specific Releases

Okay, gamers, let’s talk about versions! Ever bought a game only to find out there’s a “Super Ultra Mega Edition” with extra content you’re now missing out on? Yeah, that’s why version information matters. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t cite a book without mentioning which edition you’re using, right? Same goes for games! It’s all about being specific so everyone’s on the same digital page. Let’s dive in, shall we?

Identifying Specific Editions or Releases

Alright, detective hats on! How do we actually figure out which version we’re dealing with? Luckily, game companies often give us clues (sometimes you may need a magnifying glass – okay, not really). Here’s your toolkit:

• Fancy Names: Look for those catchy titles like “Director’s Cut,” “Game of the Year Edition,” or the dreaded “Definitive Edition” (definitive until the next definitive edition, am I right?). These usually scream special version!
• Box Art & Descriptions: Scrutinize the game box or digital store page. Sometimes the edition is plastered right on there. Read the descriptions closely; they often highlight the extra content you’re getting (or missing).
• Patch Numbers & Updates: For digital games, patch numbers are your best friend. A quick Google search of “[Game Title] patch notes” can reveal what’s been tweaked and which version you’re running.
• Platform-Specific Versions: This is a big one! A game on PlayStation 5 might have graphical enhancements or exclusive features not found on the Nintendo Switch. Always note the platform when documenting a game! Don’t treat all versions the same, because they’re definitely not.

The Importance of Version Information

“So what?” you might be thinking. “Why does it matter if I played version 1.0 or 1.5?” Let me tell you, my friend, it matters a lot!

• Gameplay Gaps: Version differences can drastically alter gameplay, from bug fixes to entire rebalances. Imagine arguing about a game’s difficulty when one person is playing a patched version and the other is suffering through the original release!
• Content is King: Extra content is the big one. A “Game of the Year Edition” might include DLC, new characters, or even entire new storylines. Citing the wrong version could lead to confusion about what content you’re actually referencing.
• Critical Citations: Think about it: If you are writing an academic paper about the narrative changes in a game like Final Fantasy VII Remake, and you fail to note which patch version you played it on, you could easily misinterpret scenes or character motivations if you are referencing elements that were introduced in a later patch.

Version information is the key to avoiding confusion and ensuring accurate discussions. Think of it as the secret sauce that makes your game documentation extra credible and oh-so-delicious! So, next time you boot up a game, take a peek at the version number. Your future self (and anyone reading your work) will thank you for it!

Acknowledging the Masterminds: Why You Need to Know Your Game Developers

Ever played a game and thought, “Wow, this is amazing!”? Chances are, a team of talented developers poured their hearts and souls into crafting that experience. When documenting games, it’s not just about the shiny box art or the publisher’s name; it’s about giving credit where it’s due—to the developers. It’s like knowing the band behind your favorite song, not just the record label! So, why does it matter, and how do you find out who’s responsible for the digital magic? Let’s dive in!

Finding the Geniuses Behind the Code: Primary Creator Identification

So, you’re ready to give the developers their rightful place in your documentation. But where do you find their names? Don’t worry, it’s not a treasure hunt! Here’s your guide:

• The Game Credits: Think of this as the movie credits, but for games. Usually found at the end of the game (or sometimes accessible from the main menu), the credits list everyone who contributed. Look for sections like “Development Team,” “Programming,” “Art,” etc.
• The Game Box/Packaging: Many times, the developer’s name will be printed somewhere on the game box, often smaller than the publisher’s logo but still present. Give it a good look!
• The Official Website: The game’s official website, or the developer’s own website, is a fantastic source. Here, you’ll often find a dedicated “About Us” or “Team” section that proudly displays who brought the game to life.

Now, sometimes it’s not so straightforward. A game might have multiple developers, especially if it involved co-development, outsourcing, or acquisitions. In these cases, try to identify the primary developer—the one that spearheaded the project. It’s about finding the main artist, not just someone who helped paint a single brushstroke. If it’s truly a collaborative effort, consider listing all the major contributing studios or teams.

Developer vs. Publisher: Knowing the Difference

Okay, let’s clear up a common point of confusion: developers and publishers are not the same thing. They have distinct roles in bringing a game to your screen. Understanding the difference is key to accurate documentation.

• Developers: These are the creative teams who actually make the game. They write the code, design the levels, create the characters, compose the music—basically, they’re the architects of the digital world.
• Publishers: These are the companies that handle the business side of things. They provide funding, marketing, distribution, and other support services to get the game into your hands. They are often the financial backers who oversee the process.

Why is this distinction so important? Imagine crediting the movie studio for writing the screenplay! It just wouldn’t be right. By correctly identifying the developer, you’re acknowledging the creative force behind the game, not just the company that paid the bills. It’s about giving credit to the artists, programmers, and designers who poured their talent into creating the gaming experiences we love.

Understanding the Publisher: The Silent Hand Behind Your Favorite Games

So, you know who made the game, right? The wizards coding away, the artists crafting those stunning visuals, the writers weaving those epic tales? That’s the developer. But who brought that game to your eager hands (or hard drive)? Enter the publisher, the often-unsung hero (or villain, depending on your perspective) of the gaming world.

The Many Hats of a Publisher

Think of publishers as the all-in-one package of marketing, distribution, and the all-important funding. They are the entity responsible for getting the game from the developer’s computers to the consumer, whether that means physical copies on store shelves or digital downloads on your favorite platform. It’s the publisher who foots the bill for things like marketing campaigns, localization (adapting the game for different languages and regions), and quality assurance. Without them, many incredible games would remain just a dream on a developer’s hard drive.

Major publishers like Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft wield immense power, funding massive AAA projects and controlling wide distribution networks. They have the resources to create huge marketing buzz. On the other hand, indie publishers like Devolver Digital or Raw Fury often champion smaller, more experimental games, giving them a platform to reach a wider audience. These indie publishers are usually more open for new developers who want to show their game to the world. They are both important sides of the coin and without them we will not have any new game to play, we really should be thankful to them and what they do for us.

The Publisher’s Invisible Hand: Shaping Availability

Ever wondered why a game is only available on certain platforms, or why it disappeared from digital stores seemingly overnight? The publisher’s influence is at play. They control where and how a game is sold, and their decisions can have a significant impact on its availability.

Publishers can also influence the regional releases, so that game is available in certain countries but isn’t available in another. This can be frustrating for people who want the game but they have to wait due to their region restriction. An example: a publisher might choose to delist a game from digital storefronts due to licensing issues, poor sales, or strategic reasons. Think of P.T., the Silent Hills demo, pulled from the PlayStation Store. Or, a game might be exclusive to a particular platform due to a publishing deal, like Bayonetta 2 being a Nintendo exclusive. Sometimes, games have different publishers across different regions, further complicating matters. For example, a game might be published by one company in North America and another in Europe.

Therefore, documenting the publisher is crucial. It helps you understand the forces that shaped the game’s release and availability, and it provides valuable context for its history and legacy. Knowing the publisher gives you a clearer picture of the entire game’s journey, from conception to your screen.

Release Date: Setting the Timeline – It’s More Than Just a Birthday!

So, you’ve got the game title nailed, the developer and publisher sorted – high five! But hold up, there’s another crucial piece of the puzzle: the release date. Think of it as the game’s birthday, and you wouldn’t forget a birthday, would you? (Okay, maybe sometimes, but let’s not talk about that.) Seriously though, pinning down the exact release date is super important, and here’s why.

5.1 Specifying the Exact Release Date: Time Detective Work

Alright, grab your magnifying glass, because we’re going on a date hunt! Finding a game’s release date isn’t usually too tough, but sometimes it takes a little detective work. Here’s where to look:

• Game Box: This is often your best bet, especially for physical copies. That little box is packed with information!
• Official Website: Head straight to the source! The developer or publisher’s website usually has the release date front and center.
• Online Databases: Websites like MobyGames or Wikipedia are your friends here. They’re like the librarians of the gaming world, keeping track of all the facts.

Now, a word of caution: regional release dates! A game might launch in Japan months before it hits North America or Europe. Always be sure to specify the region you’re talking about, or you might end up in a time-travel paradox of misinformation!

5.2 Why Release Dates Are Important: Context is King!

Why all this fuss about a simple date? Because it’s all about context, my friend! The release date does so much more than just record when a game came out, it:

• Provides Historical Context: Knowing when a game was released puts it in a specific period of time. Was it a launch title for a new console? Did it come out during a major gaming trend? This helps us understand the game’s place in history.
• Impacts Interpretation of Influence: Did a game seem groundbreaking, or was it riding the coattails of another similar title? The release date helps us understand the timeline of innovation and influence. A game that seems innovative now might have been derivative if it was released a few years later, and vise versa.
• Explains Development Context & Reception: Did a game release before certain technologies were commonplace? Or maybe after a string of similar games that were poorly received? These situations can change how a game needs to present itself or how it may be received.

So next time, don’t just skim over the release date. It is an important detail to understand a game’s history, reception, and influence. Think of it as setting the stage for the game’s story! Happy documenting!

Platform: Knowing Where the Game Actually Runs

Alright, folks, let’s talk platforms! No, not those wobbly things you stand on to reach the top shelf (though those are important for getting to your game collection!). We’re diving into the world of gaming platforms – the actual hardware or software environments where our beloved games come to life.

Identifying the Gaming System or Medium

Think of it this way: is it a PC, a PlayStation 5, an Xbox Series S, a Nintendo Switch, or maybe something you tap away at on your phone? Nailing down the exact platform is crucial. It’s like knowing what kind of fuel a car needs. You wouldn’t put diesel in a gasoline engine (hopefully!), and you shouldn’t assume a game is the same across all systems.

• The Usual Suspects: PC, PlayStation (mention specific generations like PS3, PS4, PS5), Xbox (ditto: Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S), Nintendo Switch (including handheld vs. docked), and Mobile (iOS, Android).

• Getting Specific: But wait, there’s more! You’ve got to specify what kind of version of console (the base model, or better) you’re talking about. “PlayStation 4” is different than “PlayStation 4 Pro.” And “Xbox Series X” is a beefier beast than the “Xbox Series S.” Same with PC’s, you should specify what kind of PC and its specifications

Different Platforms and Their Significance

The platform a game is played on can drastically alter the experience. This isn’t just about bragging rights of having the best graphics (although let’s be real, we all do it).

• Gameplay Variations: Some games might have exclusive content on certain platforms, different control schemes, or even gameplay tweaks. Think of a game with motion controls on the Nintendo Switch versus the same game using a controller on a PlayStation. Huge difference, right?

• Graphical Fidelity: Let’s face it, the visuals matter to many of us. A game on a high-end PC is going to look noticeably different than on a mobile phone. That’s why you need to clearly identify which platform you’re talking about.

• The Accuracy Angle: By noting platform-specific versions, we can have more accurate comparisons and discussions. When you’re discussing glitches or cool details, its essential to remember what kind of machine the game is running on because bugs can come from certain platform’s and or their specifications.

So, next time you’re documenting a game, remember to be precise about the platform. It’s a detail that can make all the difference!

Container: Where to Find It Digitally

Alright, imagine you’re telling a friend where to find that super-rare holographic Charizard card. You wouldn’t just say, “Go to a store,” right? You’d specify, “Check eBay,” or “Go to Frank’s Collectibles, back corner, third shelf.” Think of the “container” for a digital game in the same way. It’s where you physically (or digitally) acquired it.

Medium of Access (e.g., Steam, App Store)

In today’s gaming landscape, the “where” is more likely a digital distribution platform than a brick-and-mortar store. We’re talking about the usual suspects, folks:

• Steam: The granddaddy of PC game distribution, with a library bigger than your uncle’s collection of vintage baseball cards.
• GOG (Good Old Games): If you’re after DRM-free classics and newer titles, this is your haven.
• Epic Games Store: Known for snagging exclusives and giving away free games like it’s Oprah’s book club.
• App Store: Your go-to spot for iOS games, from Angry Birds to surprisingly deep RPGs.
• Google Play: The Android equivalent of the App Store, brimming with mobile games for every taste.

Identifying the specific container is usually straightforward. Check your download history, the app icon on your device, or even the game’s properties in your operating system. If you bought it on Steam, it’s a Steam game!

Why Container Information is Needed

So, why bother with this container business? It’s all about accuracy and verification.

Firstly, it helps others locate the game. Mentioning “it’s on Steam” saves someone from endlessly searching the web. Secondly, it adds to the verification process. Is it the real deal, or a dodgy knock-off? Knowing the container helps confirm its source and authenticity. Think of it like this: if someone claims they got a rare Pokemon card at a garage sale for 50 cents, you’d be a bit suspicious, right? But if they said they got it authenticated by PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), you’d be more inclined to believe them.

Editor (If Applicable): Recognizing Editorial Contributions

Okay, so you’ve got your game title down, you know who made it and when, but wait! There’s potentially another layer to this beautiful cake of game creation: the unsung heroes of the written word, the editors! Now, editors aren’t always a huge part of every single game’s development (especially smaller indie titles), but when they are involved, it’s important to give credit where credit is due. Think of them as the grammar guardians, the story shapers, the folks who make sure your epic adventure makes sense and doesn’t have a rogue semicolon causing havoc.

8.1 Identifying Key Editorial Contributors

So, how do you find these elusive wordsmiths? Your best bet is to dive into the game’s credits. You know, that scrolling wall of names that appears after you’ve saved the princess (or destroyed the evil corporation, or whatever your gaming heart desires)? Look closely! You might see titles like “Narrative Editor“, “Content Editor“, “Localization Editor,” or “Copy Editor.” Also, keep an eye out for official documentation like digital manuals or online resources; Sometimes you can find detailed lists of contributors there.

The role of an editor can vary widely! A narrative editor might work closely with the writers to ensure the story flows well and makes sense. A content editor might review all the in-game text, dialogue, and item descriptions for accuracy and clarity. And a localization editor works to adapt the game for different languages and cultures, ensuring that all the jokes and references land just right.

8.2 Why Editorial Roles Matter

Think about your favorite game with a compelling storyline. Did the dialogue feel natural? Did the world-building make sense? That could be the result of a talented narrative editor at work! Editorial contributions can drastically affect a game’s quality and content, ensuring the narrative beats land and the world is immersive and believable.

For instance, picture a sprawling RPG with countless quests. If the quests are poorly written or unclear, the player will likely become frustrated and give up. But with a skilled content editor ensuring each quest is well-defined, engaging, and free of grammatical errors, the player can fully immerse themselves in the experience. Or, imagine a game with clunky or unnatural dialogue? A narrative editor can help smooth out these issues and make the characters come alive through their words.

So, while they might not be the rockstar developers or the marketing masterminds, remember the editors! Their behind-the-scenes magic helps to polish the gameplay experience in more ways than you might think. Give them the recognition they deserve and make sure they are a part of your documentation process.

Contributor(s) (If Relevant): Giving Credit Where It’s Due

Ever played a game with a soundtrack that just resonates with you, or artwork that’s so stunning it leaves you speechless? Yeah, me too! That’s the magic of talented individual contributors. While the game developer and publisher often get the spotlight, let’s not forget the unsung heroes: the artists, musicians, voice actors, and so many others who pour their heart and soul into making a game truly special. Giving credit where it’s due isn’t just good manners; it’s essential for acknowledging their creative input and contributions!

9.1 Highlighting Specific Contributors

Okay, so you’re ready to give props. But where do you even find out who did what? Fret not! Your treasure map leads to a few key locations. First and foremost, check the game credits. They’re usually listed at the end of the game or in a separate “credits” section in the main menu. Pay close attention, as specific roles are often listed right next to their names.

Another great resource is the official game website. Many developers and publishers will highlight key contributors there, especially if they’re promoting the game’s soundtrack or art style. Don’t forget to note the specific roles and contributions. Did someone compose a particularly epic battle theme? Or design a breathtaking character? Mentioning those details adds weight and meaning to your citation. It shows you’ve done your homework, and more importantly, it celebrates the individual’s specific skills!

9.2 How to Properly Credit Contributors

Alright, you’ve identified your contributors. Now, how do you actually cite them? The key is to be accurate and respectful. Different citation styles (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) have their own rules, so always double-check the guidelines for the style you’re using.

Here’s a general framework, though:

• Artist: [Artist’s Last Name, First Name]. [Role]. [Game Title]. [Platform]. [Developer], [Publisher], [Release Date].
• Musician: [Musician’s Last Name, First Name]. “[Track Title].” [Game Title Official Soundtrack]. [Developer], [Publisher], [Release Date].
• Voice Actor: [Voice Actor’s Last Name, First Name]. [Character Name]. [Game Title]. [Platform]. [Developer], [Publisher], [Release Date].

Always emphasize accurate and respectful attribution. It’s about more than just getting the name right (though that’s super important, too!). It’s about recognizing the individual’s hard work, talent, and the impact they had on the game. By properly crediting contributors, you’re not just following academic guidelines; you’re participating in a culture of appreciation for the amazing people who bring our favorite games to life. And that’s something worth celebrating!

URL (If Accessed Online): Finding the Digital Address

Ever tried giving someone directions and accidentally led them to a dead end? Yeah, not fun. The same goes for citing online games or resources. Giving the wrong URL is like telling your friend, “It’s near that big tree,” when there are literally a million big trees. So, let’s talk about why providing the right URL is crucial and how to avoid digital detours!

Providing the Correct URL

First things first: location, location, location! Finding the correct URL might seem simple, but trust me, it’s an art. Always start with the official source—the game’s official website, the specific page on Steam, or the direct link to the resource you’re citing. Avoid using shortened URLs from random link generators; it’s always better to show the whole address!

Now, here’s a pro tip: if you’re dealing with academic papers or anything that needs long-term reliability, look for persistent URLs or DOIs (Digital Object Identifiers). These are like permanent addresses for online content, ensuring that the link won’t break even if the website structure changes. Think of it as the digital equivalent of buying a house instead of renting an apartment!

Ensuring Accessibility and Verification

Okay, you’ve got the URL. Awesome! But hold on—is it actually working? Before you finalize that citation, check the accessibility of the link. Make sure it leads to the correct page and that the content is actually there. There’s nothing worse than citing a source only to find out later that it leads to a 404 error page. It is very important that you can verify this, so that you can confidently use the reference.

And now, for the big boss of online citations: link rot. This is when links break over time, leaving your readers stranded in the digital desert. To combat this, consider archiving URLs using services like the Wayback Machine or Archive.today. These tools take snapshots of webpages, so even if the original link dies, you’ll have a backup version to reference. It’s like having a time machine for your citations, ensuring they remain accessible for years to come. This is extremely important when dealing with research of any kind.

11. Date of Access (If Accessed Online): Time-Stamping Your Research

Ever tried finding that perfect screenshot you saw online last week, only to discover the website’s been revamped and it’s GONE?! Yeah, we’ve all been there. That’s why access dates are super important, especially when you’re citing or referencing anything you’ve found lurking in the digital world. Imagine writing a paper on the evolving meta of a certain online game, then BAM, a new patch drops and everything you based your argument on has changed. Yikes!

11.1 Importance of Access Date

Think of the access date as a snapshot in time. It tells anyone reading your work exactly when you saw what you saw.

• Context is King (or Queen!): Access dates give vital context to online resources. A webpage, a forum post, even a tweet – they’re all living, breathing things that can be edited or deleted at any moment. Knowing when you accessed that info helps readers understand its relevance at that specific point in time.
• Things Change, Yo: Seriously, the internet is in constant flux. Websites get updated, articles get revised, and sometimes, content just vanishes into the digital ether. The access date serves as a warning label: “Hey, this is what it looked like then, not necessarily what it looks like now.” It protects you and your readers from potential confusion down the line.

11.2 Recording Access Date Accurately

Alright, so you’re convinced. Access dates are essential. But how do you actually record them without messing things up?

• Citation Styles to the Rescue: Different citation styles (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) have specific formats for including access dates. Usually, it involves including the word “Accessed” followed by the month, day, and year. For example: Accessed 15 July 2024. Consult your specific style guide for the exact formatting.
• Consistency is Key: The most important thing is to be consistent throughout your document. Choose a format for your access dates and stick to it like glue. It makes your work look professional and shows you’ve got your documentation game on lock. This may also entail including the same format in all your documents such as: 2024/07/15. or 07/15/2024.

So next time you’re diving into the wild world of online game info, remember to jot down that access date! It’s a simple step that can save you (and your readers) from a world of confusion and keep your research rock solid.

In-text Citation Elements: Your Quick ‘Cheat Sheet’

Alright, so you’re knee-deep in writing about video games, whether it’s a killer blog post, an insightful academic paper, or even just arguing with your friends online (we’ve all been there!). But how do you give credit where credit’s due without making your text look like a jumbled mess of numbers and names? That’s where in-text citations come in, folks. Think of them as little breadcrumbs guiding your readers back to the sources you used, proving you didn’t just make stuff up.

12.1 Key Elements for Citations: The Bare Necessities

At the very least, an in-text citation for a video game needs a few key ingredients. Imagine you’re baking a cake; you can’t skip the flour and eggs, right? Similarly, you need these:

• Game Title: This is obvious, but make sure you’re using the official title! (Refer to Section 2 on finding the correct game title)
• Developer/Publisher: Who made and brought this game to our screens? Knowing the creator and the distributor is crucial. Sometimes, just the developer will do, but if the publisher played a significant role (like influencing the game’s direction), include them too.
• Release Date: Slapping a year on there gives context to the game. A title from 1985 is going to be a bit different than one from 2024, right?

Now, how you arrange these ingredients depends on the citation style you’re using. Think of citation styles like different cake recipes. MLA, APA, and Chicago are the most common ones, each with its own quirks. Let’s break down how to adapt to each one:

• MLA (Modern Language Association): Usually includes the game title (or a shortened version if it’s long) and the page number (if you’re referencing a specific part of a strategy guide or walkthrough). Example: (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild). In MLA 9th edition, page numbers are usually only needed when quoting a direct source.

• APA (American Psychological Association): Emphasizes the developer/publisher and the year of release. Example: (Nintendo, 2017). Or, if citing in the narrative, “Nintendo (2017) released The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to critical acclaim.”

• Chicago: Offers more flexibility, with both notes-bibliography and author-date styles. For author-date, it’s similar to APA. For notes-bibliography, a superscript number is placed in the text, leading to a footnote or endnote with full citation details.

12.2 Examples of In-text Citations: Let’s See It in Action

Okay, let’s get practical. Here are a few examples of how to cite video games in different citation styles:

• Scenario: You’re discussing the environmental storytelling in The Last of Us (Naughty Dog, 2013).

  • MLA: Environmental storytelling in The Last of Us is very good.
  • APA: Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us (2013) masterfully uses environmental storytelling.
  • Chicago (Author-Date): Environmental storytelling is important to The Last of Us (Naughty Dog 2013).

• Scenario: You’re quoting a specific passage from a Fallout 4 strategy guide (Bethesda Game Studios, 2015).

  • MLA: The guide notes that “collecting all Bobbleheads significantly enhances your character’s abilities” (Prima Games, 2015, p. 42).
  • APA: Prima Games (2015) highlights the benefits of collecting Bobbleheads, noting they “significantly enhance your character’s abilities” (p. 42).
  • Chicago (Author-Date): “Collecting all Bobbleheads significantly enhances your character’s abilities” (Prima Games 2015, 42).

A Little Pro-Tip: If a game has multiple developers or publishers, list the primary one followed by “et al.” (meaning “and others”) to keep your citation concise. For example, “(CD Projekt Red et al., 2015)” for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. You can also note both, using a forward slash between them – i.e. “(Nintendo/Monolith Soft, 2017)”.

Remember, citation isn’t just about avoiding plagiarism; it’s about building credibility and showing your readers you’ve done your homework. So, go forth and cite responsibly!

So, there you have it! Citing video games in MLA doesn’t have to be a boss-level challenge. With these tips and a little practice, you’ll be leveling up your citations in no time. Happy gaming—and happy citing!