Citing Video Games in MLA Format: A Clear Guide

The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is widely used for citing various sources, but when it comes to citing video games, there are specific guidelines to follow. This guide breaks down the essential elements for citing video games in MLA format, ensuring accuracy and adherence to scholarly standards.

Understanding the MLA Format for Video Game Citations

1. Author Information

  • Individual or Corporate Authorship: Clarify how to cite video games when there is an individual or corporate author, emphasizing the importance of accurate attribution.

2. Title of the Game

  • Italicization: Explain the necessity of italicizing the title of the video game, both in the in-text citation and the Works Cited page.

3. Version and Number

  • Clarifying Editions: Guide users on how to specify the edition or version of the video game, ensuring precision in citations.

4. Publisher Information

  • Publisher and Release Year: Provide insight into citing the publisher and release year, emphasizing their relevance in MLA citations.

5. Medium of Publication

  • Specify Platform: Instruct users to mention the platform (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox, PC) as the medium of publication.

In-Text Citations

1. Author-Page Style

  • Direct Quotes: Explain how to incorporate video game citations within the text using the author-page style for direct quotes.

2. No Page Numbers

  • Handling Lack of Page Numbers: Address the scenario where video games may not have page numbers and suggest alternative methods for in-text citation.

Works Cited Page

1. Basic Structure

  • Author, Title, Publisher: Outline the basic structure of a video game citation on the Works Cited page, emphasizing the key components.

2. Online Sources

  • Citing Online Platforms: Guide users on citing video games accessed online, including details such as the URL or DOI.

3. Format for Corporate Authors

  • Corporate Authorship: Provide a distinct format for citing video games when the author is a corporate entity rather than an individual.

Examples and Templates

  • Printed Video Game:

    • Offer an example of citing a traditional, printed video game following MLA guidelines.

  • Online Video Game:

    • Provide a template for citing a video game accessed online, incorporating all relevant details.

Special Considerations

  • Anthology or Collection: Address how to cite a video game that is part of an anthology or collection, ensuring accuracy in citation.

  • Downloadable Content (DLC): Discuss the inclusion of downloadable content in video game citations.

Conclusion

Citing video games in MLA format is an essential skill for students, researchers, and scholars engaged in discussions around digital media. By following this comprehensive guide, individuals can confidently cite video games in both in-text references and the Works Cited page, aligning with MLA standards and contributing to academic integrity.




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