The Cosplay Contest remained a key attraction at Vietnam GameVerse 2026, drawing a large community of game, anime, and manga fans. After preliminary rounds, the top 10 individuals and teams advanced to the finals, performing live for the judges and thousands of spectators.

This year, organizers introduced two distinct categories, individual and team, to ensure greater fairness for competitors. The judging panel featured acclaimed Asian cosplayers: Mikki (Malaysia), Taotan (Thailand), and Hattie (South Korea), alongside Vietnamese representative Hasuka.

Judges evaluated performances based on accuracy to the original character, stage presence, and overall presentation. Costumes, accessories, props, and lighting effects were also crucial in determining the final outcome.

First place: Le Tan Dat and Oach Xa Lach

Le Tan Dat (left) and the Oach Xa Lach group won the overall first prize. Photo: Quynh Tran

In the individual category, Le Tan Dat captivated the audience with his portrayal of Sakuko from Silent Hill F. His performance, structured as a short theatrical piece, featured diverse segments, eerie expressions, and the tense atmosphere characteristic of horror games. Judges praised the entry for its emotional depth, strong role-playing, and meticulous costume and stage design.

The Oach Xa Lach group claimed the team championship with a performance inspired by Gachiakuta. They recreated the characters Rudo Surebrec and Zanka Nijiku in a gritty style, combining physical movements and lighting effects to evoke a post-apocalyptic atmosphere. Judges noted the performance's distinct impression and sustained emotional engagement.

Second place: Ha Thi Phuong Ngan and Atlas

Ha Thi Phuong Ngan (left) and Atlas received second prize. Photo: Quynh Tran

Ha Thi Phuong Ngan earned second prize in the individual category for her portrayal of Jinx from Arcane and League of Legends. She appeared with a large-scale weapon prop, embodying the character's rebellious image. Judge Hasuka commended the investment in props and her compelling stage presence.

In the team category, the Atlas group secured second prize by bringing the Heartsteel musical group from League of Legends to the stage. Their performance featured synchronized choreography, expressions, and a cohesive lineup. Judges observed the group's clear improvement from the previous season in stage mastery and overall performance quality.

Third place: Kim Loan and Anh Bien

Kim Loan achieved third prize in the individual category with her portrayal of Yunara from League of Legends. She used silk strips and fluid movements to enhance the stage lighting effects. Judge Hattie praised the performance for its excellent control of expressions and movements.

In the team category, the Anh Bien group won third prize with their recreation of the Straw Hat Pirates' journey from One Piece. Their performance was staged as a narrative, featuring multiple layers of acting and continuous scene transitions. Judges commended the group's ability to construct a storyline and engage the audience's emotions.

Beyond the award-winning entries, many other performances garnered significant audience acclaim. These included Nguyen Hoai Bao's portrayal of Chibi Gwen, Nguyen Ngoc Tuong Van as Fami from Chainsaw Man, and the Ly Gia Han group's transformation into the idol group Aqours.

Groups and contestants took souvenir photos on stage. Photo: Quynh Tran

The prize structure was equally divided between the two categories. In the individual category, the champion received 10 million VND in cash, second place 7 million VND, and third place 5 million VND. For the team category, the champion team received 15 million VND, second place 10 million VND, and third place 5 million VND. Other contestants in the top 10 received one million VND along with various technology gifts from sponsors.

The Cosplay Contest is an integral part of Vietnam GameVerse, co-organized by the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information, VnExpress Newspaper, FPT Online Company, and the Vietnam Game Alliance. Established in 2023, the event marked a significant milestone as the first large-scale gathering of numerous publishers, producers, investors, and the gaming community in Vietnam.

Thai Anh