how to cite a video game in apa

Daniel Parker

3 min read

·

04-02-2025

1

0

Share

Video games are increasingly recognized as significant cultural artifacts and sources of scholarly research. Knowing how to properly cite them in APA style is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and giving credit where it's due. This guide will walk you through the process, covering different scenarios and providing clear examples.

Citing Video Games in APA: The Basics

The core information needed to cite a video game in APA style is similar to citing other sources, but with some specific adaptations. Here's the general format:

Author's Last Name, Author's First Initial. (Year). Title of video game [Format]. Publisher.

Let's break down each component:

• Author's Last Name, Author's First Initial: This refers to the developer or creator of the video game. If there are multiple developers, list them all, separated by commas. If a company is the developer (e.g., Nintendo), use the company name.

• (Year): The year the video game was released.

• Title of video game: The title of the game, italicized.

• [Format]: Indicate the platform the game is played on (e.g., PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, iOS). This is crucial for specifying the version being cited.

• Publisher: The company that published the video game.

Examples of Video Game Citations in APA

Here are a few examples illustrating different citation scenarios:

Example 1: Single Developer

• In-text citation: (Rockstar Games, 2013)
• Reference list entry: Rockstar Games. (2013). Grand Theft Auto V [PlayStation 3]. Rockstar Games.

Example 2: Multiple Developers

• In-text citation: (Insomniac Games & Marvel Games, 2018)
• Reference list entry: Insomniac Games & Marvel Games. (2018). Marvel's Spider-Man [PlayStation 4]. Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Example 3: Game with a Version Number or Update

• In-text citation: (Blizzard Entertainment, 2016, Patch 2.4.3)
• Reference list entry: Blizzard Entertainment. (2016). Overwatch [PC] (Version 2.4.3). Blizzard Entertainment.

Example 4: Mobile Game

• In-text citation: (Supercell, 2012)
• Reference list entry: Supercell. (2012). Clash of Clans [iOS]. Supercell.

Citing Specific Levels or In-Game Elements

If your research focuses on a specific aspect within a game, like a particular level or character, you might need to include this information in your in-text citation. However, avoid cluttering the reference list entry with such specifics.

Example:

"The player's journey through the 'Forbidden City' level in Tomb Raider (Crystal Dynamics, 2013) presents unique challenges."

In-Game Materials and Additional Sources

If you're citing in-game text, like a manual or cutscenes, you may treat it similarly to citing a chapter in a book:

Example:

(Crystal Dynamics, 2013, p. 15). (In this example, you'd need to locate a page number or similar indicator within the game's manual)

If you use additional sources about the video game, such as critical essays or reviews, cite those separately according to APA guidelines for their respective source type.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What if the developer is unknown? If you cannot find the developer, you may use the publisher's name in the author position.

Q: Do I need to include the ESRB rating? No, the ESRB rating (e.g., "E for Everyone") is generally not included in the APA citation.

Q: What about DLC (Downloadable Content)? If your research centers around specific DLC, you can mention it in the in-text citation but maintain the base game's details in the reference entry.

Conclusion:

Citing video games in APA style might seem daunting initially, but with this guide, you can ensure accuracy and maintain academic standards. Remember to always be thorough and consistent, providing all relevant information to allow others to locate the source easily. Proper citation is vital for responsible scholarship and avoids plagiarism. Remember to consult the official APA style manual for the most up-to-date guidelines.