Video games have evolved into a cornerstone of modern culture, yet their academic citation remains an underdeveloped skill for researchers and students. The Modern Language Association MLA format offers a structured approach to acknowledging video game sources, yet its application demands precision to accommodate unique elements like developers, platforms, and interactive components. This guide dissects the essentials of MLA citations for video games, from foundational principles to advanced scenarios, ensuring compliance with scholarly standards while addressing the medium’s distinctive challenges.
Unlike traditional academic sources, video games incorporate dynamic elements such as multiplayer dynamics, digital distributions, and multimedia integrations that complicate citation processes. The distinction between official documentation and fan-generated content further introduces ethical and practical dilemmas. By exploring real-world examples—from single-player narratives like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to decentralized online worlds such as Fortnite—this resource equips writers with actionable strategies to navigate MLA guidelines effectively. Clarity in citation not only upholds academic integrity but also preserves the integrity of creative works in scholarly discourse.
Core Components of MLA Citations for Video Games
The Modern Language Association (MLA) style provides a standardized framework for citing video games, which differ significantly from traditional media like books or films due to their interactive and multimedia nature. MLA citations for video games emphasize the roles of developers, publishers, and platforms while incorporating unique elements such as version numbers, game engines, and interactive features. Understanding these components ensures accuracy in academic and professional contexts, particularly in fields like game studies, digital humanities, or media analysis.
MLA citations for video games prioritize the creator’s name (often the game’s director or lead developer), title, contributors (writers, designers, composers), publisher, platform, release year, and version (if applicable). Unlike APA or Chicago styles, MLA does not require a URL or DOI for digital citations unless the game is accessed via an online platform (e.g., Steam, Xbox Game Pass). Additionally, MLA distinguishes between single-player, multiplayer, and modifiable games by specifying the edition or iteration (e.g., "Special Edition," "Director’s Cut").
Required Elements in MLA Video Game Citations
The following components form the foundation of an MLA citation for video games, ensuring clarity and completeness:
Core Elements:
1. Creator(s): Primary contributors (director, lead developer, or studio).
2. Title: Italicized game name, followed by a colon and subtitle (if applicable).
3. Contributors: Writers, designers, composers, or voice actors (listed in a "Contributors" section).
4. Publisher: Company responsible for distribution (e.g., Nintendo, Rockstar Games).
5. Platform: Console, PC, or mobile system (e.g., "Nintendo Switch," "PlayStation 4").
6. Release Year: Publication date in parentheses.
7. Version/Edition: If the game has multiple releases (e.g., "Definitive Edition").
8. Medium: Specified as "Video game" (not required in MLA 9th edition but recommended for clarity).
For example, a citation for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) would include Hideo Kojima (as a hypothetical lead developer in this case; note: Kojima is associated with Metal Gear Solid) as a placeholder for the actual director, Nintendo EPD as the developer, and Nintendo as the publisher. The platform ("Nintendo Switch") and release year are critical for distinguishing editions.
Comparison of MLA, APA, and Chicago for Video Games
MLA, APA, and Chicago styles approach video game citations differently, with MLA focusing on contributors and interactive elements, APA emphasizing formal author roles, and Chicago prioritizing publisher and physical/digital distinctions. Below is a structured comparison:
Key Differences:
MLA: Uses a creator-centric model, listing developers and designers prominently. Includes platform and version but omits URLs unless necessary.
APA: Follows a formal author-publisher structure, requiring a DOI or URL for digital games. Uses "Producer" for developers and "Distributor" for publishers.
Chicago (Notes-Bibliography): Separates notes (detailed citations) from bibliographic entries, including edition numbers and physical media (e.g., "DVD-ROM").
Example Comparison Table:
Element
MLA (9th Edition)
APA (7th Edition)
Chicago (17th Edition)
Creator Role
Director/Developer (e.g., "By Hideo Kojima")
Producer (e.g., "Produced by Kojima")
Author/Creator (e.g., "Directed by...")
Title Format
Title: Subtitle (italicized)
Title: Subtitle (italicized)
Title: Subtitle (italicized)
Platform
"Nintendo Switch" (in parentheses)
"Platform: Nintendo Switch" (in parentheses)
"Platform: Nintendo Switch" (in notes)
Version
"Special Edition" (if applicable)
"Edition: Special" (in parentheses)
"Edition: Special" (in notes)
URL/DOI
Only if accessed online (e.g., Steam)
Required for digital games (DOI preferred)
Optional; included in bibliography
Medium
"Video game" (recommended but not required)
"Video game" (in square brackets)
"Medium: Video game" (in notes)
Flowchart: MLA Citation Formats for Video Games, Books, and Films
A visual representation of MLA citation structures highlights how video games diverge from books and films due to their interactive and collaborative nature. Below is a textual flowchart for clarity:
Flowchart Logic:
1. Start: Identify the type of source (video game, book, film).
2. Video Game Path:
Creator: List primary developer/director.
Title: Italicized with subtitle (if any).
Contributors: Add writers, composers, etc., in a secondary line.
Platform/Publisher: Specify console/PC and publisher.
Year/Version: Include release date and edition (e.g., "2017. Nintendo Switch").
3. Book Path:
Author: Primary writer.
Title: Italicized book title.
Publisher/City: Publisher name and location.
Year: Publication date.
4. Film Path:
Director: Primary filmmaker.
Title: Italicized film title.
Studio/Distributor: Production company.
Year: Release date.
Medium: "Film" (optional in MLA).
Key Distinction:
Video games require platform and version details, while books and films rely on author/director and publisher. Films may include studios, whereas games emphasize development teams and interactive features (e.g., mod support).
Annotated MLA Citation Example: The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Below is a properly formatted MLA citation for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017), with each element annotated for clarity:
Citation:
Hyrulean Development Team. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Directed by Eiji Aonuma, Nintendo EPD, 2017. Nintendo Switch.
Annotations:
1. Creator (Hyrulean Development Team):
Represents the collective developers (MLA allows team names for collaborative works).
Alternative: Use the lead developer’s name if individually credited (e.g., "By Eiji Aonuma").
2. Title (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild):
Italicized series title followed by a colon and subtitle.
Subtitles are enclosed in quotation marks only if part of the original title (e.g., "Ocarina of Time").
3. Director (Eiji Aonuma):
Specified as "Directed by" to clarify the role (MLA prioritizes creative leadership).
Omit if the director is already listed as a contributor.
4. Developer (Nintendo EPD):
Internal studio responsible for development (critical for distinguishing from publishers).
Placed before the publisher for hierarchical clarity.
5. Release Year (2017):
Enclosed in parentheses, no comma before the year in MLA.
6. Platform (Nintendo Switch):
Specifies the hardware/software environment (essential for multiplatform games).
Omit if citing a PC game without a specific storefront (e.g., "Steam").
7. Medium ("Video game"):
Optional in MLA 9th edition but recommended for academic precision.
Placed at the end before the period.
Additional Notes:
For multiplayer games, include the number of players (e.g., "Multiplayer: 4 players").
For modifiable games, specify the base game and mod (e.g., "Skyrim: Special Edition" with "Creation Kit").
Online platforms (e.g., Xbox Game Pass) require a URL only if accessed digitally (MLA 9th edition allows omission if the game is widely distributed).
Identifying Credible Sources for Video Game Citations
Accurate MLA citations for video games depend on sourcing information from verified, authoritative, and structured documentation. Official developer materials, industry databases, and curated archives serve as primary references to validate details such as release dates, publisher names, and development teams. Third-party databases, while useful, require cross-referencing to mitigate discrepancies in metadata, such as conflicting release years or misattributed creators. Below, structured approaches and comparative analyses outline how to prioritize credible sources while addressing ethical considerations in citation practices.
Official Documentation as Primary Sources
Official sources provide the most reliable data for MLA citations, as they are directly controlled by developers, publishers, or licensing bodies. These include:
Game Manuals and In-Game Credits: Physical or digital manuals often list core details (e.g., copyright years, development studios). In-game credits (accessed via menus or developer options) frequently contain accurate publisher and contributor names.
Developer and Publisher Websites: Official sites (e.g., Nintendo’s legal page, Rockstar Games’ press kit) host press releases, E3 announcements, and patch notes with verifiable release dates and versions.
Press Kits and Marketing Materials: Distributed to media outlets, these documents include technical specifications, credits, and release timelines. Archives like IGN’s press kit database or Gamasutra’s developer interviews may preserve historical records.
Cross-verification method:
To resolve discrepancies (e.g., a game listed as "2018" on one site and "2019" on another), compare:
1. The original release date (e.g., via VGChartz) with the localized release date (e.g., Japan vs. North America).
2. Publisher statements (e.g., a re-release may list a new copyright year while retaining the original’s development credits).
3. Physical media labels (e.g., disc cases or box art often include definitive release years).
Third-Party Databases and Cross-Referencing Strategies
Third-party databases aggregate metadata but may introduce inconsistencies due to user contributions or outdated entries. Cross-referencing at least three independent sources (e.g., one official + two third-party) strengthens citation accuracy. Below are key databases and their reliability profiles:
Comparison Table: Video Game Databases for MLA Citations
Database
Reliability for MLA Citations
Pros
Cons
Best Use Case
IMDb Games
Moderate-High
Structured credits section with IMDb’s verification process for film/game adaptations.
Covers international release dates via user-submitted trivia.
Linked to official press releases (e.g., via IMDbPro).
User-edited fields (e.g., release years) may lag behind official announcements.
Limited granularity for indie or niche titles.
Adapted games (e.g., The Last of Us film) or franchises with IMDb-verified credits.
Giant Bomb
High (Community-Curated with Editorial Oversight)
Editorial reviews include verified release dates and developer interviews.
Release dates often copied from other sources without verification.
Supplementary data (e.g., gameplay length) when no other source exists.
Steam
Moderate (Publisher-Dependent)
Official release dates for digital versions (e.g., "Available Since: June 2020").
Developer forums may contain patch notes with credits.
Physical releases may not be listed.
User reviews can misattribute development teams.
Digital-only games or Steam-exclusive titles (e.g., Disco Elysium).
Wikipedia
Moderate (Contextual, Not Primary)
Cites official sources in references (e.g., "[Nintendo, 2021]").
Useful for franchise overviews and development history.
Articles may rely on fan speculation for obscure details.
Release dates in infoboxes are often user-edited.
Background context or when no official source exists (e.g., canceled games).
Cross-referencing workflow:
1. Start with official sources (e.g., a game’s Steam page for release dates, then verify with MobyGames for console versions).
2. Triangulate discrepancies using two third-party databases (e.g., IMDb’s release year vs. Giant Bomb’s editorial note).
3. Prioritize databases with editorial processes (e.g., Giant Bomb over HowLongToBeat) for non-technical details like credits.
Ethical Prioritization: Official vs. Fan-Made Sources
Fan-made sources (e.g., Reddit threads, YouTube descriptions, or forum posts) lack institutional oversight and may propagate inaccuracies. However, they serve as secondary or tertiary references when official documentation is unavailable. Ethical guidelines for prioritization include:
When to use official sources exclusively:
Legal/commercial citations: Publisher names, copyright years, or licensing details (e.g., citing Fortnite’s Epic Games ownership).
Development credits: Writer/director names (e.g., Hades’s Rogue Factorie) to avoid misattribution.
Release dates: Critical
Handling Unique Video Game Elements in MLA Citations
MLA citations for video games often encounter challenges due to decentralized authorship, dynamic content updates, and multimedia components. Unlike traditional works, games may lack clear authors, feature collaborative development, or include modular expansions that require precise differentiation. This section addresses specialized citation scenarios, including multiplayer/online games, expansions, in-game sources, and standalone multimedia elements, while adhering to MLA’s structured guidelines for "no author" entries, secondary sources, and multimedia attribution.
The core principle in MLA for video games is treating the work as a container—where the game itself is the primary source, and its components (e.g., soundtracks, DLC) are secondary sources requiring distinct citations. For decentralized or anonymous works, MLA’s "no author" format applies, while expansions and remasters necessitate title modifications to reflect updates. In-game sources (e.g., lore entries) function as secondary sources within the larger work, citing the game as the container and the specific element as the source. Multimedia components, such as soundtracks or voice acting, are cited separately using MLA’s rules for recordings and performances, with the game’s title serving as the work’s context.
Citing Multiplayer or Online Games with Decentralized Authorship
Multiplayer or online games (e.g., Fortnite, World of Warcraft) often lack a single author or publisher, complicating traditional MLA citations. MLA guidelines for "no author" entries apply, where the game’s title becomes the primary identifier, supplemented by the platform, version, and publisher when available.
When citing decentralized works, prioritize the game’s official title (italicized) and the platform (e.g., PC, PlayStation, browser). If no publisher is listed, omit it; if the game is developed by a collective (e.g., Minecraft by Mojang Studios), use the studio’s name. For live-service games with frequent updates, include the version or release date (e.g., patch notes) to ensure citation accuracy. Developer interviews or community-driven content (e.g., modded versions) are treated as secondary sources, citing the original game as the container.
- With Publisher and Version:
> World of Warcraft. Blizzard Entertainment, 2004, Battle.net. Shadowlands Expansion, 2020.
- Modded or Community-Driven Content:
> Smith, John. "Custom Minecraft Mods and Their Impact on Gameplay." Minecraft Wiki, 2022, fandom.com/wiki/Minecraft_Mods.
Formatting Citations for Expansions, DLC, or Remasters
Expansions, downloadable content (DLC), and remasters are treated as separate works within the original game’s framework. MLA requires modifications to the title to distinguish them from the base game, using phrases like:
"Expansion" (e.g., The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine)
"DLC" (e.g., Halo: The Master Chief Collection – Anniversary Edition)
"Remaster" (e.g., Resident Evil 2 Remake)
For expansions/DLC, include the original game’s title in parentheses followed by the update’s title. Remasters should specify the year of the original release and the remaster year. If the expansion/DLC has its own publisher or developer, credit them; otherwise, use the original game’s publisher.
Key Formatting Rules:
Italicize the expansion/DLC title and place the original game’s title in parentheses.
For remasters, list the original release year first, then the remaster year.
Include the platform if the expansion/DLC is platform-exclusive.
Example Citations:
Expansion:
> The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. CD Projekt Red, 2015, PC. Blood and Wine Expansion, 2016.
- DLC:
> Halo: The Master Chief Collection. 343 Industries, 2014, Xbox One. Halo 5: Guardians – "The Chief’s Legacy" DLC, 2017.
In-game sources—such as dialogue, lore entries, or developer interviews—are secondary to the game itself. MLA treats them as quotations or paraphrases within the larger work, requiring citation of the game as the container and the specific source (e.g., NPC dialogue, lorebook, interview transcript).
To cite in-game sources:
1. Identify the source type (e.g., dialogue from a character, a lore entry, a developer interview).
2. Use the game’s title as the container, followed by the source’s location (e.g., chapter, quest, or in-game timestamp).
3. For interviews or external sources, cite the original work (e.g., a YouTube video or official website) and note the game’s context.
Example Citations:
NPC Dialogue:
> Geralt of Rivia. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. CD Projekt Red, 2015, PC. "The world is a book, and those who don’t travel read only one page."
- Lore Entry (In-Game Codex):
> "The History of the Wild Hunt." The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, CD Projekt Red, 2015, PC, "Codex: History" section.
- Developer Interview (External Source):
> Jones, Mark. Interview by IGN. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Developer Commentary, YouTube, uploaded by IGN, 15 Nov. 2015, www.youtube.com/watch?v=example.
Citing Video Game Soundtracks and Voice Acting Separately
Soundtracks and voice acting are standalone multimedia components that require separate citations from the game itself. MLA treats them as recordings (for music) or performances (for voice acting), with the game’s title serving as contextual information.
Soundtrack Citations:
Use the composer’s name (if available) or the game’s title as the primary identifier.
Format as a recording with the album title (if applicable) or the game’s name.
Include the release year and the platform (if the soundtrack is platform-specific).
Example:
> The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Original Soundtrack. KompoZer, composed by Manaka Kataoka et al., 2017, Nintendo Switch.
Voice Acting Citations:
Treat voice actors as performers, similar to film or theater citations.
Include the actor’s name, the character’s name, and the game’s title.
For group performances (e.g., full cast recordings), use the game’s title as the primary work.
Example:
> Schaeffer, Troy. The Voice of Master Chief. Halo: The Master Chief Collection, 343 Industries, 2014, Xbox One.
Standalone Voice Acting (e.g., Audiobooks or Dramatized Editions):
> The Last of Us Part II – The Official Audio Drama. Narrated by Ashley Johnson and Troy Baker, 2020, Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Practical Applications: Citing Video Games in Academic Work
Video games are increasingly recognized as legitimate subjects of academic analysis, requiring precise citation practices to maintain scholarly integrity. Properly integrating MLA citations for video games—whether in a Works Cited entry, in-text references, or multimedia elements—ensures credibility while adhering to institutional and publisher standards. This section demonstrates real-world applications, including formatting comparisons, structured research templates, and ethical considerations for proprietary content.
Integrating MLA Citations in Works Cited and In-Text References
Correct citation of video games follows MLA’s 9th edition guidelines, which prioritize the creator’s name, game title, contributors, publisher, year, and platform. Below are side-by-side comparisons of correct vs. incorrect formats for both Works Cited entries and in-text citations, emphasizing common pitfalls such as omitting platform details or misformatting titles.
#### Works Cited Entry Examples
Correct:
FromSoftware. Elden Ring. Bandai Namco Entertainment, 2022, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S.
Correct:
Reed, Tim. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Nintendo EPD, 2017, Nintendo Switch.
Incorrect (Incorrect Title Formatting):
Reed, Tim. The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild. Nintendo EPD, 2017.
In-Text Citation Examples
Correct (First Reference):
In Elden Ring, players navigate a vast open world to uncover lore hidden within environmental storytelling (FromSoftware).
Correct (Subsequent Reference):
The game’s combat system emphasizes precision over button-mashing (FromSoftware 45).
Incorrect (Missing Page/Section Reference):
The game’s atmosphere is unparalleled (FromSoftware).
Key Rules for In-Text Citations:
Use the author’s last name (or game title in quotes if no author is listed) and page/section number (if applicable).
For level-specific references, include the level name (e.g., "FromSoftware, Elden Ring, ‘Mountaintops of the Giants’").
Avoid vague references like "the game" without attribution.
Blockquote-Style Research Paper Template for Video Game Analysis
Academic analysis of video games often incorporates direct quotes, screenshots, or gameplay footage, each requiring distinct MLA formatting. Below is a structured blockquote template for a research section analyzing The Last of Us Part II (2020), including proper citations for quotes, visuals, and interactive elements.
Research Section: Narrative Structure and Player Agency in The Last of Us Part II
One of the most controversial aspects of The Last of Us Part II is its non-linear storytelling, which challenges traditional linear progression. As writer Neil Druckmann explains:
> "We wanted players to feel the weight of their choices—not just in combat, but in the moral consequences of survival." (Druckmann, The Last of Us Part II, "Chapter 1: Jackson")
This design choice is evident in the game’s level "Those Who Live" (Naughty Dog), where players must navigate a hospital setting while grappling with ethical dilemmas. A screenshot of the level’s opening sequence (Figure 1) illustrates the tension between stealth and confrontation, reinforcing the game’s themes of vengeance and sacrifice.
Figure 1: Screenshot of The Last of Us Part II, "Those Who Live" (Naughty Dog, 2020) Note: Permission obtained from Sony Interactive Entertainment for academic use under Fair Use guidelines.
The game’s cutscene transitions further emphasize emotional impact. For instance, the abrupt shift from combat to quiet reflection in the "Sunset" sequence (Naughty Dog, 2020, 2:15–3:45) mirrors the protagonist’s psychological unraveling. Such moments demonstrate how The Last of Us Part II uses interactive storytelling to subvert player expectations, a technique analyzed in Druckmann’s developer commentary (Naughty Dog, The Last of Us Part II, "Post-Credit Scene").
Formatting Notes for Multimedia:
Screenshots/Footage: Cite as a figure with a descriptive caption and permission status (if applicable).
Quotes from Developer Commentary: Treat as a secondary source, citing the game’s official materials (e.g., The Last of Us Part II’s "Developer Diary").
In-Game Text: Use blockquotes for dialogue or UI elements, citing the level name and developer.
Obtaining Permissions for Proprietary Game Content
Citing screenshots, music, or proprietary assets from video games may require permissions to avoid copyright infringement, though Fair Use (under U.S. law) permits limited use for criticism, commentary, or scholarship. Below are steps to navigate permissions and Fair Use considerations.
#### When Permissions Are Required
Commercial Use: Publishing gameplay footage in a monetized video or marketing material.
High-Resolution Assets: Using unaltered screenshots of a game’s art style for merchandise or derivative works.
Full Music Tracks: Embedding unmodified soundtracks without licensing.
#### Fair Use Considerations for Academic Work
Fair Use (17 U.S.C. § 107) allows transformative use of copyrighted material if:
1. The use is educational/non-profit.
2. The citation is brief (e.g., short clips, low-resolution screenshots).
3. The work adds new meaning (e.g., analysis, not replication).
4. It does not harm the market for the original work.
Example of Fair Use-Compliant Citation:
> "The haunting melody of Celeste’s ‘Far, Far Away’ (Maddy Thorson, composer) underscores the protagonist’s isolation, a technique explored in indie game soundtrack analysis." (Thorson, Celeste, 2018, PC).
When to Seek Permission:
Full gameplay videos (even for academic use).
Use of a game’s logo/trademark in publications.
Reproducing a game’s UI in a way that resembles the original.
Permission Process:
1. Contact the Publisher/Developer: Use official channels (e.g., Sony’s Permissions Portal or Nintendo’s Legal Department).
2. Specify Use Case: Clearly state academic, non-commercial intent.
3. Provide Attribution: Offer to credit the game and publisher prominently.
4. Negotiate Terms: Some publishers allow educational use without fees.
Real-World Case:
GDC Vault Lectures: Game developers often share short clips under Fair Use for educational talks, but full talks require explicit permission from speakers.
University Theses: Many institutions self-host screenshots in password-protected repositories to mitigate copyright risks.
Checklist for Verifying Video Game Citations
Before submitting work citing video games, use this platform-specific checklist to ensure accuracy and compliance with MLA standards.
#### General Citations
[ ] Creator’s Name: Confirmed as the developer, director, or primary contributor (e.g., Hideo Kojima for Death Stranding).
[ ] Game Title: Italicized and correctly capitalized (e.g., The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, not Witcher 3).
[ ] Publisher/Developer: Verified via official websites (e.g., Rockstar Games for Red Dead Redemption 2).
[ ] Year: Matches the global release date (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077’s 2020 release, not the 2023 patch notes).
#### Platform-Specific Details
Console/PC Releases:
[ ] Platform listed (e.g., "PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC").
[ ] Regional differences noted if applicable (e.g., Persona 5’s Japanese release predates Western versions by months).
[ ] Version specified for remasters (e.g., Final Fantasy VII Remake vs. Revival).
Mobile/Indie Games:
[ ] App Store/Steam page URL included if no traditional publisher (e.g., Hades on Steam).
[ ] Developer’s name prioritized over publisher (e.g
Advanced Topics: Citing Video Games in Digital and Interactive Media
Video game citations extend beyond traditional formats, requiring adaptations to account for digital distribution, interactive narratives, and unique platform-specific identifiers. The evolution of gaming—from physical media to cloud-based and modded experiences—demands precise citation methods to ensure academic rigor. This section explores distinctions between physical and digital releases, challenges in crediting modded or fan-made content, and specialized approaches for interactive elements such as cinematic cutscenes or live-streamed events. Additionally, it provides structured guidelines for citing non-traditional gaming formats, aligning with MLA’s evolving standards for digital and performative media.
Physical vs. Digital Game Releases and Platform-Specific Identifiers
Citations for video games vary significantly based on their release format, with physical copies (e.g., disc-based releases) and digital platforms (e.g., Steam, Nintendo eShop) requiring distinct approaches. Physical releases typically include ISBNs or UPC codes, while digital versions rely on platform-specific identifiers such as Steam App IDs, Nintendo Switch product codes, or direct URLs. These differences stem from the ephemeral nature of digital media, where persistent links or unique numerical identifiers are critical for long-term accessibility.
Key considerations for citations include:
Physical Media: Use the title, publisher, year, and ISBN/UPC if available. Example:
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Nintendo, 2017.
Digital Platforms: Prioritize the platform name, unique identifier (e.g., Steam App ID: 292030), and URL for direct access. Example:
Platform-Specific Codes: Include identifiers like Nintendo Switch product codes (e.g., HACA-00001) or Xbox Game Pass SKUs to avoid ambiguity, especially for games available across multiple services.
For games distributed via subscription services (e.g., Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus), cite the primary platform alongside the service name to clarify access methods. If a game is exclusive to a platform (e.g., The Witcher 3 on GOG), omit redundant details like "digital download" unless necessary for context.
Citing Modded or Fan-Made Games and Attribution Challenges
Modded and fan-made games present unique citation challenges, as they often build upon original works while introducing significant creative or technical modifications. MLA guidelines for derivative works emphasize crediting both the original creators and the modders, though no standardized template exists. The process involves distinguishing between official modifications (e.g., Skyrim’s Creation Club) and community-driven projects (e.g., Skyrim mods on Nexus Mods).
Key strategies for attribution include:
Official Modifications: Treat as supplementary content under the original game’s citation, specifying the mod’s name, creator, and release platform. Example:
Attribution Principles: Follow MLA’s guidelines for collaborative works, prioritizing the modder’s name and platform while acknowledging the original developers. For heavily modified games (e.g., Total Conversion mods like StarCraft: Brood War’s Defense of the Ancients), consider citing the mod as the primary work if it represents a distinct creative endeavor.
Challenges arise when mods alter gameplay or narrative significantly, blurring the line between citation and plagiarism. In such cases, treat the mod as a derivative work and consult the original game’s license (e.g., Creative Commons, Bethesda’s EULA) to determine permissible uses.
MLA Citation Rules for Interactive Elements: Cutscenes, Cinematic Games, and Narrative-Focused Titles
Interactive media with heavy narrative or cinematic elements (e.g., Tell Me Why, Firewatch, The Walking Dead games) require citations that distinguish between gameplay mechanics and scripted content. MLA treats these elements as hybrid sources, blending the rules for video games, films, and literature. The following table outlines citation approaches for common interactive components:
Element Type
Citation Focus
Example
Full Game Citation
Standard video game format, emphasizing the game as a whole.
Tell Me Why. Dontnod Entertainment, 2020, Xbox Game Studios.
Scripted Cutscenes
Treat as a film or screenplay, citing the game as the medium and specifying the scene’s context (e.g., "Episode 1, Scene 3").
"The Confession Scene" in Tell Me Why. Written by Genevieve Valentine, directed by Jean-Maxime Jouan, Dontnod Entertainment, 2020, Xbox Game Studios.
Dialogue or Quotes
Use in-text citations with the game’s title and page/section number if available (e.g., "Chapter 3"). For games without pagination, use timestamps or scene titles.
In Firewatch, the protagonist states, "I can’t see the forest for the trees" (Dontnod Entertainment, 2016, 1:23:45).
Voice Acting
Credit actors alongside the game, similar to film or audiobook citations.
The Walking Dead: Season 1. Skybound Games, 2012, Telltale Games. Voice by Norman Reedus.
Dynamic Narratives
Cite the game’s branching paths as a "version" or "playthrough," specifying choices made where relevant.
Disco Elysium. ZA/UM, 2019, Playism. Playthrough: "The Revolutionary Path."
For games with heavy narrative focus, prioritize the creative team (writers, directors) and platform, while noting the interactive nature of the medium. If citing a specific playthrough (e.g., a "true ending"), include the conditions required to achieve it (e.g., "Completed via [specific choices]").
Citing Video Game Live Streams and Esports Events
Live streams and esports events introduce temporal and performative dimensions to video game citations, requiring adaptations of MLA’s guidelines for digital media and performances. These sources are ephemeral by nature, necessitating citations that capture the event’s context, participants, and platform. The following method aligns with MLA’s 8th Edition for digital performances and live broadcasts:
- Live Streams:
Include the streamer’s name (or organization), game title, platform (e.g., Twitch, YouTube), upload date, and duration if applicable.
For archived streams, replace "uploaded" with "recorded" and include the archive date if different from the original broadcast.
- Esports Events:
Treat as a performance, citing the event name, organizers,
Mastering MLA citations for video games transforms a potentially daunting task into a systematic process, bridging creative media with academic rigor. From differentiating between expansions and remasters to citing in-game dialogue or live streams, each element demands careful attention to detail. By leveraging official sources, cross-referencing databases, and adhering to MLA’s evolving standards, researchers can present their work with authority and precision. As video games continue to shape cultural and intellectual landscapes, proper citation becomes not just a requirement but a testament to the medium’s growing relevance in scholarly and professional arenas.
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