Introduction
In academic writing, citing sources is essential to give credit where credit is due and avoid plagiarism. But what about citing video games? As video games become more prevalent in academic research, it’s important to know how to properly cite them using the Harvard style.
What is Harvard Style?
Harvard style is a commonly used citation system that is widely used in academic writing. It follows a specific format for referencing sources, including books, articles, and online materials. In this article, we will focus on how to cite video games using the Harvard style.
The Importance of Citing Video Games
Note: The following text is a quote from the original article and should be wrapped in <blockquote> tags.
Citing video games is important for several reasons:
1. To avoid plagiarism: Properly citing video games ensures that you give credit to the original creators and avoid any accusations of plagiarism.
2. To establish credibility: Citing video games can help establish your credibility as a scholar by demonstrating that you have done thorough research and understand how to use sources in an academic context.
3. To provide context: Citing video games can also provide context for your research, helping readers understand the relevance of the game to your topic and how it contributes to your argument.
Tips for Citing Video Games in Harvard Style
Note: The following text is a quote from the original article and should be wrapped in <blockquote> tags.
When citing a video game using the Harvard style, there are several things to keep in mind:
1. Use the author’s last name: If there is an author listed on the game box or in the documentation, use their last name to create the reference. If there is no author, you can use the title of the game instead.
2. Include the title of the game: The title of the game should be italicized and enclosed in quotation marks. For example, “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.”
3. Include the year of publication: The year of publication is important for identifying when the game was released. If there is no release date listed, use “n.d.” to indicate that the publication date is unknown.
4. Use appropriate punctuation: When citing a video game in the reference list, use a comma after the title of the game and before the year of publication. For example, “Zelda, Ocarina of Time, n.d.”
5. Include any additional information: If there are multiple versions of the game or if there is other important information to include, such as the platform (e.g. PlayStation, Xbox), include it in the reference list.
Example of a Citation for a Video Game in Harvard Style
Note: The following text is a quote from the original article and should be wrapped in <blockquote> tags.
Here’s an example of how to cite “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” using the Harvard style:
Zelda, Ocarina of Time, n.d. . Nintendo.
Using Video Games as a Source
Note: The following text is a quote from the original article and should be wrapped in <blockquote> tags.
In addition to citing video games, it’s also important to use them as a source. Here are some tips for using video games as a source:
1. Be specific: When discussing a game, be specific about which version you are referring to and any other relevant details (e.g. platform, release date).
2. Use quotes sparingly: While it’s important to use quotes from the game to support your argument, use them sparingly and only when necessary. Too many quotes can make your writing seem like a transcription of the game, rather than an analysis or interpretation.
3. Provide context: Explain why the game is relevant to your topic and how it contributes to your argument. This will help readers understand the value of using the game as a source.
4. Consider multiple perspectives: When analyzing a game, consider multiple perspectives (e.g. player vs. developer, narrative vs. gameplay). This will show that you have thought critically about the game and its significance.
Conclusion
Note: The following text is a quote from the original article and should be wrapped in <blockquote> tags.
Citing video games in Harvard style is an important aspect of academic writing, especially as video games become more prevalent in research. By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, game developers can properly cite their work and contribute to the growing body of scholarship on video games and their impact on culture and society.
