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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, we check out research into the top 10 most cosplayed video game characters, with D.Va from Overwatch taking the top spot.
Calling all cosplayers and gaming enthusiasts! Ever wondered who reigns supreme in the realm of video game cosplay? From iconic heroes to legendary villains, certain characters consistently dominate conventions and social media feeds.
In this blog post, we delve into the Top 10 Most Cosplayed Video Game Characters, exploring their enduring popularity and the reasons they ignite the imaginations of costumers worldwide. Dive in and discover timeless favorites, recent breakout stars, and everything in between! Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer seeking inspiration or a curious newcomer, this list is guaranteed to spark your creativity and fuel your cosplay passion.
To help us out, game guide publisher guidestrats.com sent over analysis of Instagram data into the number of hashtags for each character, including #LinkCosplay and #PrincessPeachCosplay.
| Rank | Character | Number of Hashtags |
| 1 | D.Va | 223,046 |
| 2 | 2B | 131,490 |
| 3 | Link | 96,525 |
| 4 | Lara Croft | 78,178 |
| 5 | Mercy | 77,820 |
| 6 | Venti | 56,729 |
| 7 | Ganyu | 51,607 |
| 8 | Ciri | 50,184 |
| 9 | Yae Miko | 47,126 |
| 10 | Mario | 43,184 |
The Korean gamer turned Mech pilot holds the first place with 223,046 cosplay hashtags across Instagram. D.Va’s design, outside of her bright pink mech, is easily replicated. This cosplay is made up of a body suit, long brown hair, and hot pink stripes across the face; however, the simplistic nature of the design makes it easy for both new cosplayers and veterans for conventions or photoshoots.
Visually Appealing Design: D.Va’s outfit is a vibrant blend of pink and black, with recognizable elements like the oversized bunny ears and the light gun. It’s a visually striking design that translates well to cosplay and offers a range of complexity depending on the desired level of detail.
Dual Identity: D.Va’s character has two distinct sides – the seemingly carefree gamer and the skilled mech pilot. This duality allows cosplayers to portray either side or even combine elements of both for a unique interpretation.
Accessibility: D.Va’s costume offers a range of difficulty levels. Beginners can create a simpler version focusing on the core elements, while experienced cosplayers can go all out with intricate details and even build a replica mech helmet.
Appeals to Different Body Types: D.Va’s outfit doesn’t heavily rely on revealing clothing, making it a comfortable and flattering cosplay choice for a wider range of body types.
Character Popularity: Overwatch is a globally popular game, and D.Va is a beloved character within that universe. Her enthusiastic personality and impressive piloting skills resonate with many fans, making her a natural choice for cosplay.
Versatility: D.Va’s design allows for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can add their own personal touches, such as incorporating elements from her different skins in the game, or even creating entirely new outfits inspired by the character.
The only character from developer Square Enix on this list, 2B, has gained 131,490 hashtags on Instagram, taking second place. Since the game’s launch in 2017, 2B has been a staple in cosplay conventions. 2B’s design consists of a white wig, black dress and long black boots, and is another character that is easy for beginners to achieve.
Striking and Enigmatic Design: Her outfit is a unique blend of practicality and style. The black combat skirt paired with the blindfold-like visor creates a mysterious and action-ready aesthetic that’s both visually interesting and allows for creative interpretation by cosplayers.
Gameplay Appeal: NieR: Automata is a critically acclaimed game praised for its action-packed combat and captivating story. 2B’s role as the main protagonist puts her front and center, making her a natural choice for fans who want to embody their favorite character.
Character Depth: While initially appearing stoic, 2B’s story unfolds to reveal a complex character with hidden emotions and motivations. This depth allows cosplayers to portray different facets of her personality through their interpretation.
Versatility: 2B’s outfit offers opportunities for cosplayers of varying skill levels. A basic version focuses on the core elements, while advanced cosplayers can create elaborate replicas of her weapons, pod companion, and intricate details on her clothing.
Action Poses and Photography: 2B’s combat prowess translates well to cosplay photography. Cosplayers can capture her dynamic action poses and fighting style, creating visually stunning photos that showcase their skills and the character’s essence.
The hero of Hyrule has claimed third place, with 96,525 hashtags, and is the first character from developer Nintendo on this list. The Legend of Zelda series has been around since 1986 and has developed a strong and passionate fanbase. With the release of the Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom, Link has had multiple outfit variations – this is a treasure trove of ideas for cosplayers of any skill level.
Enduring Legacy: The Legend of Zelda is a long-running and beloved video game franchise. Link, as the series’ protagonist, has been a recognizable figure for generations of gamers, fostering a strong sense of nostalgia and connection for cosplayers.
Versatility Across Games: Link’s appearance changes throughout the Zelda games, offering cosplayers a vast selection of designs to choose from. This allows them to portray their favorite iteration, from the classic green-clad hero to more recent incarnations like the rugged Link from Breath of the Wild.
Accessibility for Different Skill Levels: Link’s core outfit – the green tunic, tights, and iconic Hylian cap – is relatively simple to replicate, making him a good choice for beginner cosplayers. On the other hand, experienced cosplayers can delve into intricate details like crafting the Master Sword and shield, creating elaborate versions of his armor from different games.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: While typically portrayed by men, Link’s design can be interpreted by cosplayers of any gender. This inclusivity adds to his overall cosplay popularity.
Symbolism and Heroism: Link embodies the classic hero archetype – courageous, kind, and always ready to save the day. Cosplaying as Link allows fans to embody these heroic qualities and celebrate the spirit of adventure.
Adaptability and Creativity: Link’s core design offers a foundation for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can add personal touches, such as incorporating elements from different Zelda games or creating their own unique take on his iconic outfit.
Cosplays of Lara Croft are a staple at conventions, from her first appearance in 1996, and she has placed fourth on the list with 78,178 cosplay hashtags. Many people take inspiration from every incarnation of the character, even poking fun at the 1996 edition’s pointed features. Lara’s design is made of shorts and a teal shirt as well as gun holsters; it’s a great first cosplay for people just starting out.
Cultural Icon Status: Lara Croft is a video game pioneer and a global pop culture phenomenon. She’s instantly recognizable, transcending generations and igniting a sense of nostalgia for many cosplayers.
Empowering Character: Lara is a strong, independent, and intelligent woman who carves her own path. She’s an inspiration for many, and cosplaying as her allows fans to embody her confidence and adventurous spirit.
Evolving Design: Lara’s look has changed throughout the Tomb Raider games, offering a wide range of costume options for cosplayers. This variety caters to different preferences, allowing them to portray the classic Lara or a more recent iteration.
Action Hero Appeal: Lara’s adventures involve exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. This action hero vibe translates well to cosplay, with opportunities for dynamic poses and photography that capture the thrill of her tomb raiding escapades.
Accessibility for Different Skill Levels: Lara’s core outfit – tank top, shorts, utility belt, and boots – is a good starting point for beginners. Experienced cosplayers can delve deeper, crafting detailed replicas of her weapons, backpacks, and other gear.
Versatility and Creativity: Lara’s core design offers a base for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can personalize their outfits with elements from different games, craft unique weapons, or even create their own gender-bent versions of the character.
The second character from Overwatch, Mercy, has 77,820 cosplay hashtags on Instagram, placing her in fifth. The medic is one of the first 21 characters to be unveiled when the game was released in 2016, with the design of Mercy resembling an angel, complete with a metal halo. It’s the second Blizzard character on this list, after D.Va being in the top spot.
Angelic Appeal: Mercy’s very design is inherently alluring. The flowing white wings, the halo, and the sleek bodysuit evoke a sense of purity, kindness, and strength. Cosplayers can tap into this angelic aesthetic, feeling empowered and graceful as they bring Mercy to life.
Accessibility for All Skill Levels: Mercy’s costume offers a range of complexity, making it suitable for cosplayers of varying experience. Beginners can focus on the core elements – the white outfit, wings, and staff – while more experienced cosplayers can create elaborate versions with intricate details, glowing effects on the wings, and meticulously crafted armor pieces.
Character Depth: While Mercy appears benevolent on the surface, she possesses a hidden fierceness. Her unwavering dedication to healing and protecting her teammates hints at a strong inner resolve. Cosplayers can explore this duality, portraying Mercy’s gentle nature or channeling her fierce protectiveness through their expressions and poses.
Versatility and Customization: Mercy’s core design offers a foundation for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can incorporate elements from her various skins in the game, such as the fan-favorite Pink Mercy skin or the Valkyrie combat suit. This level of customization allows cosplayers to express their individuality and showcase their favorite aspects of the character.
Action Poses and Photography: Mercy’s abilities in the game involve graceful flight and dynamic healing bursts. This translates well to cosplay photography, allowing cosplayers to capture stunning images that showcase the character’s elegance and power.
God of Anemo, Venti, is the first character from the popular online game known as Genshin Impact, with 56,729 cosplay hashtags, placing him sixth. The game has exploded in popularity since its release in 2019 – the character is one of the first that the players meet and is the most cosplayed male characters from the game.
Visually Striking Design: Venti’s outfit is a vibrant blend of colors and textures. The teal and white color scheme, accented by gold details, is eye-catching and translates beautifully to cosplay. The playful combination of shorts, a long coat, and a prominent hat offers a unique and recognizable silhouette.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: Venti’s design transcends traditional gender norms in cosplay. Both men and women can portray him comfortably, with some cosplayers even adding their own interpretations to the outfit. This inclusivity broadens Venti’s appeal within the cosplay community.
Accessibility for Different Skill Levels: Venti’s cosplay offers a range of complexity. Beginners can focus on the core elements – the coat, shorts, hat, and lyre – while experienced cosplayers can delve into intricate details like the swirling patterns on his clothes, crafting a replica of his signature lyre, or even adding light-up elements for extra flair.
Character Depth: Beneath Venti’s cheerful facade lies a complex past and a powerful entity known as the Anemo Archon. This duality allows cosplayers to explore different facets of the character. They can portray his playful bard persona or hint at his hidden power through their expressions and poses.
Versatility and Customization: Venti’s core design serves as a springboard for creativity. Cosplayers can incorporate elements from his various character skins in the game, such as the anemo-themed “Highwind Rider” skin or the festive “Glittering Indulgence” outfit. This allows for personalized interpretations and showcases the cosplayer’s favorite aspects of the character.
The Secretary to the Liyue Qixing, Ganyu, has 51,607 cosplay hashtags placing her in seventh place, and is one of the most cosplayed female characters out of all 74 available characters. Her character is relatable to many people, as she is a kind and hard-working force in the Liyue – the main city and namesake of the second area players visit.
Aesthetic Appeal: Ganyu’s design is a perfect blend of beauty and practicality. The flowing white and turquoise dress with intricate details and gold accents creates a stunning visual. The addition of the cryo adornments and the iconic horns adds a touch of fantasy and mystery, making her cosplay truly eye-catching.
Character Depth: While Ganyu appears gentle and reserved, she’s also a skilled archer and a dedicated worker. This duality allows cosplayers to explore different facets of her personality. They can portray her serene beauty or channel her focused determination through their expressions and poses.
Versatility and Customization: Ganyu’s core outfit offers a foundation for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can incorporate elements from her various character skins in the game, such as the summery “Sea Breeze Dandelion” skin or the festive “Blackcliff Outfit.” Additionally, the level of detail can be adjusted to suit skill levels. Beginners can focus on the core elements, while experienced cosplayers can create elaborate versions with intricate embroidery, glowing accents on her horns, or a meticulously crafted bow and arrow.
Ciri had a total of 50,184 cosplay hashtags, placing her in eighth. Ciri is the deuteragonist of the Witcher 3, alongside the series protagonist Geralt. Her popularity can be related to the well-received Netflix adaptation of the books that the games are based on. Ciri is another cosplay that is accessible to first time participants, with her design made up of a white wig, white/cream shirt, and brown leather pants.
Visually Striking Design: Ciri’s outfit throughout the game offers a range of options for cosplayers. From the iconic leather hunting gear with the distinctive swallow symbol to the more fantastical Elder Blood armor, each variation presents a visually striking design element that translates well to cosplay.
Character Development and Depth: Ciri’s journey in The Witcher 3 is one of growth and resilience. She transforms from a young ward to a powerful sorceress, facing challenges that test her strength and spirit. This depth allows cosplayers to explore different facets of her personality – the vulnerable young woman, the fierce warrior, or the determined sorceress.
Action Poses and Photography: Ciri’s mastery of swordsmanship and her connection to Elder Blood open doors for dynamic cosplay photography. Cosplayers can capture her wielding her iconic swallow sword, unleashing her magical abilities, or showcasing her agility during combat, creating visually stunning images that bring her character to life.
Versatility and Customization: The variety of Ciri’s outfits and the different stages of her journey offer a wealth of customization options. Cosplayers can choose their favorite version, incorporate elements from different parts of the game, or even create their own interpretations. This allows for a high degree of creativity and personalization.
Appeal to Different Skill Levels: Ciri’s cosplay caters to a range of skill sets. Beginners can focus on simpler elements like the basic leather outfit with minimal details. Experienced cosplayers can delve into intricate details like crafting her armor pieces, replicating her magical effects, or creating a realistic sword and scabbard.
Badass Female Character: Ciri is a strong and independent character who defies traditional damsel-in-distress tropes. Cosplaying as her allows fans to embody this empowering image and celebrate female strength and resilience.
In ninth, with 47,126 cosplay hashtags, is Yae Miko. Right-hand kitsune to the god of Electro, Yae Miko is one of the many characters to be released by HoYoverse. She has an elaborate design, that is based off of Japanese shrine maidens’ dress, and it is one of the more revealing designs on this list. Her hair is a soft, pastel pink that includes downturned fox ears, which show her kitsune traits.
Visually Stunning Design: Yae Miko’s outfit is a captivating blend of elegance and tradition. The vibrant shrine maiden attire with intricate fox motifs and flowing white hakama exudes a sense of both authority and charm. The iconic fox ears and fluffy tail add a touch of whimsy and mischief, perfectly reflecting her kitsune nature.
Dual Identity: Yae Miko’s character holds a duality that intrigues cosplayers. She’s both a witty owner of a publishing house and a powerful kitsune with ancient knowledge. This allows for creative interpretations. Cosplayers can portray her playful side, highlighting her teasing personality, or showcase her wisdom and hidden power through their expressions and poses.
Versatility and Customization: Yae Miko’s core outfit offers a foundation for creative expression. Cosplayers can incorporate elements from her various character skins in the game, such as the vibrant “Secluded Courtyard” skin or the festive “Fox Festival Outfit.” Additionally, the level of detail can be adjusted to suit skill levels. Beginners can focus on the basic elements, while experienced cosplayers can create elaborate versions with intricate embroidery, glowing accents on her kitsune features, or a meticulously crafted Electro catalyst.
Action Poses and Photography: Yae Miko’s association with Electro allows for dynamic cosplay photography. Cosplayers can capture her unleashing her elemental power, gracefully leaping through the air, or striking a playful pose with her catalyst, creating visually stunning images that showcase her elegance and Electro prowess.
The iconic Italian plumber rounds out the list with 43,184 cosplay hashtags. Mario is the official mascot of Nintendo, with almost 300 appearances in games that span from 1981 to 2023. Mario is a cosplay that couldn’t be mistaken for another and is a treasured part of many people’s childhoods.
Universal Recognition: Few characters boast the global recognition Mario enjoys. Across generations and cultures, his red and blue attire is instantly recognizable. This widespread familiarity makes him a perfect choice for cosplayers who want to be understood and appreciated by a broad audience.
Accessibility for All Skill Levels: Mario’s core costume – the overalls, shirt, hat, and mustache – is relatively simple to replicate. This makes him a great entry point for beginner cosplayers who are just starting their crafting journey. Conversely, experienced cosplayers can delve deeper, creating elaborate versions with detailed stitching on the overalls, crafting a custom mustache, or even adding light-up elements to his iconic cap.
Versatility and Customization: While the classic red and blue overalls are instantly recognizable, Mario offers a surprising amount of variety for cosplayers. They can choose from different versions of his outfit throughout the years, such as the white overalls from Super Mario 64 or the builder outfit from Super Mario Maker. Additionally, cosplayers can incorporate elements from different games, like the Tanooki Suit or the Fire Flower power-up, allowing for a high degree of personalization.
Gender-Neutral Appeal: Mario’s design transcends traditional gender norms in cosplay. Both men, women, and non-binary cosplayers can portray him comfortably, with some even adding their own creative twists to the overall look.
Family-Friendly Fun: Mario is a character often associated with childhood joy and family entertainment. Cosplaying as Mario can be a fun way to connect with younger generations and celebrate the shared experience of video games. It’s not uncommon to see parents and children cosplaying together as Mario characters, creating lasting memories.
With there always being new and exciting games on the horizon, these rankings could always be in a state of flux. Even with iconic characters such as Mario and Link being on this list, it’s amazing to see modern characters like D.Va. being recognized.
Cosplay is a brilliant form of expression and skill, and it’s clear that there are many talented cosplayers that are making a name for themselves across social media.
-Candance Healy, Head of Branding from guidestrats.com
This information has been provided by guidestrats.com, a digital strategy guide library for all types of video games, from PC to console.
Data has been collected from the social media site, Instagram. The data was used to analyze the number of hashtags for the 70 characters. The following hashtags were used: #Xcosplay #cosplayX and #cosplay combined with #[charactername].
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