Entering your first cosplay competition can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. Many newcomers ask the same question: “What is a cosplay competition?” From the rules to the judging criteria, this guide will give you a clear understanding of how cosplay competitions work and what to expect, so you can step into the spotlight with confidence.
Cosplay competitions come in many forms, with various types and divisions to consider. At their core, they are structured contests where cosplayers present their costumes and are evaluated by a panel of judges. The criteria for judging can differ based on the specific competition type and division. These events sometimes include awards and are frequently held at conventions and similar gatherings.
Types of Cosplay Contests
Not all cosplay contests are the same—there are three main types to keep in mind: craftsmanship, masquerade, and runway contests. Each type has a different focus for the judges. Craftsmanship contests emphasize how the cosplay was made, often including a prejudging session to assess the details and construction of the costume. These are some of the most common contests at conventions, and participants typically need to register in advance.
For masquerade and runway contests, the focus isn’t usually on how the costume was made. In masquerades, the emphasis is on the skits that participants plan and perform on stage, with stage presence being the key factor. Runway contests, on the other hand, are more about showing off the costume, where participants walk on stage, and judges select their favorites.
Divisions of Craftmanships Contests
Craftmanship cosplays get broken down by division. These divisions can either be based on your skill level which is based on how many wins you’ve had at past competitions or if you’re a professional maker. There is also divisions for how the costume was made.
What Do You Do at a Cosplay Competition
The main thing you do at a cosplay competition is showcase your costume, either through a performance, during prejudging for the judges, and/or on stage in front of an audience. For contests with prizes, you will participate in an award ceremony at the end of the competition. It’s important to stay for this, even if you don’t think you’ve won. A key part of participating in these competitions is demonstrating good sportsmanship by being respectful and kind to your fellow competitors. Don’t view them as rivals—these events are a great opportunity to make friends with other cosplayers.
What is the Criteria for Cosplay Competitions
The criteria will often depend on the type of competition you participate in. The one thing that is important for both is following the contest’s rules. These can often be found on a website for the event.
Craftmanship Contest Criteria
- Construction quality – The biggest factor a judge is looking at is the quality of what you crafted. They look to see just how clean your costume results are. Everything from fabric/foam seams, fabric edges, linings, paint details and more is looked at very closely by the panel of judges in prejudging. They are also looking at durability to make sure the costume isn’t falling apart in the room or on stage.
- Accuracy vs. concept – Accuracy may not always be heavily factored in judging. Judges aren’t going to familiar with every character and sometimes cosplayers will do an original design. If you’re doing a unique piece, they are going to focus more on the concept and execution of it.
- Creativity and innovation – Creating cosplays is an opportunity to think outside the box. Either by adding a creative twist to the character that fits their background or by incorporating unique materials and techniques while crafting. Finding ways to innovate is a great way to stand out to the judges.
- Techniques – Judges are also paying attention to the different techniques you used to create your costume. They also notice how proficient you appear to be at them. Having several techniques can work in your favor during judging granted only if you are able to do them well.
- Stage presence – This isn’t typically heavily weighted in the criteria for a craftmanship contest. However, if you get up on stage and you can’t move around well in the costume, it definitely can help break a tie.
Performance Contest Criteria
- Character portrayal – You’ll want to ensure your performance accurately portrays the character by acting and behaving like them.
- Choreography – For skit-based competitions, judges assess the originality, humor, or drama in the performance.
- Stage presence – If you’re nervous on stage, it’ll be easy for the judges to tell. Be sure you exude confidence and act engaging on stage.
- Posing – Striking accurate and engaging poses that reflect the character’s personality is also an important part of performance cosplay contests.