How to cite a video game in APA

APA video game citation

To cite a video game in a reference entry in APA style 6th edition include the following elements:

  1. Rightsholder of video game: The author refers to the individual that owns the rights of the game. However, if there is no rights-holder, treat the reference as unauthored placing the title first followed by a version number, if available.
  2. Year of publication: Give the year in brackets followed by a full stop.
  3. Title of the video game: Only the first letter of the first word and proper nouns are capitalized. Do not italicize.
  4. Version: Provide the name of the console or device the game can be played on.
  5. Location: Give the place of the company that produced the game.
  6. Name of Producer: Give the name of the company that produced the game.

Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a video game in APA style 6th edition:

Rightsholder of video game. (Year of publication). Title of the video game (Version) [Video game]. Location: Name of Producer.

APA reference list examples

Take a look at our reference list examples that demonstrate the APA style guidelines for a video game citation in action:

Examples

A Switch video game without rights-holder

Amaya, D. (2017) Cave story+ (Switch version) [Video game]. Santa Ana, CA: Nicalis.

A video game for PC without rights-holder

Fortnite: Battle royale (PC version) [Video game]. (2017). Cari, NC: Epic Games.
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This citation style guide is based on the official Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th edition).

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