Best of Tokyo Game Show: Cosplayers Deliver Creativity and Excitement

Tokyo Game Show 2024 was a bustling convergence of game enthusiasts and industry giants. For many, it's more than just an event — it's a vibrant celebration of gaming communities. Among these, one group always steals the spotlight: the cosplayers.

Cosplay is a core part of the TGS experience. In recognition of its importance, cosplayers have their own special tickets, along with access to dedicated changing rooms and locker facilities. Whether dressing up themselves or admiring others in full character, attendees can immerse in the colorful world of cosplay. Fans, meanwhile, flock to the designated areas for photo ops with their favorite game characters brought to life.

Here are some of the most creative cosplayers who took the time to chat with JAPAN Forward on September 28.

What Makes TGS Different From Other Cosplay Events?

"Well, since TGS is primarily focused on games, you can cosplay characters from a wide variety of titles. That's what I think is the most appealing part," exclaims Shion, who dressed as Kirara from Genshin Impact. "There are more game-related cosplays here, whereas other events tend to feature more anime characters," adds her colleague Kirino. She is cosplaying as Nahida from the same game.

Feru, who frequently cosplays characters from Monster Hunter, adds, "I love game-related cosplay. And since so many game cosplayers gather at TGS, it's just more fun to participate. Of course, I'm a huge fan of games, but I also really enjoy the sense of community that comes together here."

Long-time attendee Fuyuki, who has been a part of TGS for 14 years, shares a similar sentiment. "Because it's a gaming event, even if you cosplay as a more obscure character or a different version of a well-known character, people here will still recognize it."

Fuyuki exclusively cosplays as Snake from the Metal Gear Solid series. He points out the attention to detail that sets TGS apart. "For example, even if Snake isn't wearing his bandana, fans will know exactly which version of Snake you're cosplaying. The fans here are knowledgeable enough to pick up on those subtle differences."

Fittingly, one of the highlights of this year's TGS was the remake of Metal Gear Solid 3, making Fuyuki's Snake cosplay even more special.

Comparing Cosplay Communities From Overseas

"Cosplaying in Japan is very different from Germany," says Lara, who attended TGS dressed as Alice from the popular first-person shooter Nikke. "In Germany, it's much broader, and way more people participate in cosplay. It's also more casual."

She continues, "Here, it feels a bit more professional. Everyone is so polite, and no one takes photos without asking, which can happen in Germany."

American cosplayer Taylor also shared her thoughts on the benefits of cosplaying in Japan. "People here are very open and considerate. They bring their cameras, take photos, and then offer to send them to you. All the photos are free," she explains.

"I'm not sure if they edit the photos, but it's very convenient. In America, I'd have to schedule a photoshoot with a professional photographer to get that level of quality. It's nice that people here are so willing to share."

Crafting and Cost

For many, cosplaying is an opportunity to bring their favorite characters to life by crafting intricate costumes from scratch, often turning them into skilled costume designers along the way.

"I made some parts myself. But for the more complicated ones, I had help from a skilled friend," explains Fuyuki, the veteran cosplayer known for his portrayal of Snake from Metal Gear Solid. He shows off his detailed mecha arm. "It took about six months. I collected pieces little by little, like the eyepatch and beard. I think the whole costume cost around ¥60,000-70,000 JPY ($400-475 USD). Many of the items are just repurposed commercial products. This raincoat, for instance, is actually a hiking jacket."

Feru, a regular at TGS, crafted an impressive Barioth armor from Monster Hunter: World. "I took a break in between, but overall it took about two months," she shares. "The armor is made from EVA foam, which is soft and flexible, making it easy to shape. While there are specific crafting materials for cosplay, I used cushion mats from a 100-yen store. For example, heating the mats allows you to mold them into the desired shape for intricate details."

Living With TGS Cosplay Rules

Kira Akira, whose show-stopping Rigoes Gold Armor caught attention this year, spent three months constructing his cosplay. "With the announcement of a new Monster Hunter game, I thought it was the perfect time to debut this armor," he says proudly. "I used a material similar to foam board, cutting, gluing, and assembling everything by hand."

However, Kira highlights a challenge cosplayers face at TGS: strict regulations on large objects. "You can't bring anything longer than 50 cm. In Monster Hunter, characters usually carry huge weapons, but because of the rules, I couldn't bring mine."

Another cosplayer, Kinu Zero, found a creative workaround for this rule. "I made the weapon, but since I can't bring it due to the size restriction, I had to make some adjustments," he explains, unveiling a 2D weapon crafted from foam board with a printed replica of his character's armament. "It cost me about ¥30,000-40,000 JPY ($200-275 USD)."

Sustainable Cosplays  

While cosplaying is a fantastic form of self-expression, some are becoming more mindful of the environmental impact of their costumes.

"I buy all my cosplays second-hand, so they're usually not more than €100 euros ($110 USD)," shares Lara. "And you can sell them again after using them. Just make sure to clean them first, of course."

Similarly, Taylor discussed her conscious approach to cosplay. "I don't tend to go all out with super intricate costumes like some people, but I do make my own. For this one, I focused on using materials I already had," she reflects. "Sustainability has been on my mind recently, and cosplay isn't sustainable if you only wear the costume once. So, I tried to pull pieces from my closet, my cosplay supplies, and my fabric stash."

Wide Variety of Professions and Lifestyles

For most, cosplay is a beloved hobby. However, our cosplayers come from a wide variety of professional backgrounds.

Shion and Kirino have a profession that complements their passion for cosplay. "I work as café staff at a concept café. [It's] a place where people can meet idols or cosplayers," says Kirino

Others keep their hobby more discreet. "I don't really talk about cosplay at work; it's more of a hidden hobby," shares Monster Hunter cosplayer Kira Akira. "I'm just an ordinary office worker. Balancing everyday life with cosplay as a form of self-expression or art ー it's hard to explain."

Taylor, a cosplayer with a background in production, says, "I help with movies, TV shows, and commercial decorations and props."

Feru, who cosplays characters from Monster Hunter, shares a bit about her profession. "I'm a store clerk — just an ordinary pet shop employee. I love animals, so it makes sense that I'm drawn to Monster Hunter, with its elements of nature."

Another cosplayer manages a rental photo studio in Tokyo. "I specifically manage a studio that's set in an old Japanese-style house."

Meanwhile, Lara, who recently arrived from Germany, explains her current situation. "I'm a full-time student here on an exchange program. I just arrived two weeks ago."

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Author: Natasha Takahashi