How to Cite a Video Game in Harvard (Cite Them Right)

Learn how to cite video games and interactive game software in Harvard format (Cite Them Right). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.

Harvard Reference List Format

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

Harvard Example for a Video Game

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

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

Harvard In-Text Citation

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

Key Harvard Formatting Rules

• Use the developer as author and give the year in parentheses.
• Add the version in parentheses and the [Video game] descriptor.
• Add 'Available at:' and the URL if relevant, then an '(Accessed: Day Month Year)' date.
• Name the publisher of the game.

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 Harvard (Cite Them Right) 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 Harvard requirements.

Cite a Video Game in Other Styles

Cite Other Sources in Harvard

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)