How to Cite a Video Game in APA (7th edition)

Learn how to cite video games and interactive game software in APA format (7th edition). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

APA Reference List Format

Here is the standard APA format for citing a video game in your reference list:

APA Example for a Video Game

A complete APA reference for a video game, formatted by the official APA CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:

Matching in-text citation: (Tessellate Studio, 2022)

APA In-Text Citation

Use one of these formats when referencing this source within your paper:

Key APA Formatting Rules

• Use the developer (studio) as the author and the publisher as the publisher.
• Give the year of release, then the title in sentence case followed by the version in parentheses.
• Add the [Video game] bracket descriptor after the version.
• End with the URL if you played a web or downloadable version.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your video game.
2. Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the APA (7th edition) template shown above.
3. Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
4. Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
5. Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match APA requirements.

Cite a Video Game in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in APA

More Resources

• Free Citation Generator (10,834 styles)
• Free Writing Tools
• Compare Citation Styles
• All Citation Guides
• Cheat Sheets (APA, MLA, Chicago)
• Citation Glossary (et al., ibid., DOI, hanging indent)