Introduction
As video games continue to grow in popularity and influence, game developers must be mindful of the importance of proper citation. Not only does this help to give credit where it’s due, but it also helps to ensure that your work is properly contextualized within the larger field of scholarship. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to cite a video game in text, including best practices and real-world examples.
I. Understanding the Importance of Citing Video Games
The Role of Citation in Game Studies
Game studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the cultural, social, and political implications of video games. Like any other academic discipline, it requires proper citation to give credit to the sources used in research.
Proper citation allows readers to verify the accuracy of information presented in a study or article and provides context for the work. Citing sources also helps to avoid plagiarism, which can have serious consequences for game developers and their institutions.
The Impact of Proper Citation on Your Work
By properly citing video games in your research, you demonstrate that you have done your due diligence and are familiar with the field. This can help to establish your credibility as a game developer and increase the likelihood of your work being cited by others in the future.
Furthermore, proper citation can also enhance the impact of your work by providing readers with additional resources to explore. It can also provide a roadmap for other researchers to build upon your work and contribute to the larger field of game studies.
II. Best Practices for Citing Video Games in Text
APA Style Guide
The American Psychological Association (APA) is one of the most commonly used citation styles in academia. It provides a set of guidelines for citing sources, including video games. Here are some best practices for citing video games in APA style:
- In-text citation: When referencing a video game in your text, include the author’s last name and the year of publication in parentheses at the end of the sentence. For example: "According to Smith (2020), video games can have a positive impact on mental health."
- Direct quotations: If you include a direct quotation from a video game, include it in quotation marks and also provide the page number or time stamp where the quote can be found. For example: "As Smith states, ‘Video games can help to reduce stress and improve mood’ (page 10)" or "Smith says that video games can have a positive impact on mental health (2 hours and 30 minutes into the game)."
- Reference list: Create a separate reference list at the end of your paper that includes the author’s name, year of publication, title, and publication information for each source cited in your text. For example: Smith, J. (2020). The Impact of Video Games on Mental Health. Psychology Press.
MLA Style Guide
The Modern Language Association (MLA) is another commonly used citation style in academia. Here are some best practices for citing video games in MLA style:
- In-text citation: When referencing a video game in your text, include the author’s last name and the page number or time stamp where the quote can be found. For example: "Smith argues that video games can have a positive impact on mental health (page 10)."
- Direct quotations: If you include a direct quotation from a video game, include it in quotation marks and also provide the page number or time stamp where the quote can be found. For example: "As Smith states, ‘Video games can help to reduce stress and improve mood’" (page 10) or "’Video games can have a positive impact on mental health,’ says Smith (page 10)."
- Works Cited: Create a separate works cited page at the end of your paper that includes the author’s name, title, publication information, and any other relevant details for each source cited in your text.