Following the opener, Kim Loan brought the image of Yunara from League of Legends with a graceful performance, incorporating flowing silks and fluid stage movements. The contestant utilized lighting effects to add depth to the act. Judge Hattie noted the performance demonstrated good control over movement and expression.

The Cosplay Contest finals took place on the afternoon of 9/5 as part of Vietnam GameVerse 2026. The event featured prominent cosplayers embodying characters from popular games, anime, and manga.

A new feature this year was the division of competitors into two categories: individual and group. In the individual category, each main performer could have a maximum of two support staff on stage who did not participate in the performance. The group category was for teams of two to eight official members. Each contestant was allowed to enter only one submission across the entire competition. Individual performances were limited to five minutes, while group performances had a maximum of eight minutes.

Nguyen Hoai Bao captivated the audience with a portrayal of Gwen Ti Ni in a Sweet Tea Shop outfit. The performance emphasized charm, featuring many interactive gestures with the audience. Judge Mikii commended the positive energy and endearing expressions the contestant brought to the stage.

Ha Thi Phuong Ngan opened the individual category, transforming into Jinx, the iconic character from Arcane and League of Legends. The contestant appeared in a bold costume with a large weapon replica, capturing the character's signature rebellious style. Following the performance, judge Hasuka praised the investment in props and character demeanor, while the audience responded with enthusiastic applause.

Closing the individual round was Nguyen Ngoc Tuong Van as Fami (Lil’ D) from Chainsaw Man. The contestant appeared with many intricately prepared props, creating a visual highlight on stage. Judge Hasuka remarked that this year's entries showcased more novelty and creativity compared to the previous season.

Concluding the group category was Ly Gia Han's team, transforming into the idol group Aqours from LoveLive! Sunshine. The members performed continuous choreography like a professional idol group, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. Judge Mikii lauded the uniformity of their movements, their ability to maintain stage energy, and the bright spirit the group conveyed.

In the next individual performance, Le Tan Dat transformed the stage atmosphere entirely, embodying Sakuko from Silent Hill F. The act was structured as a short play, complete with a storyline, character transformations, and eerie effects. Judges expressed surprise at the contestant's immersive acting, expressions, and the detailed costume investment.

In the group category, team Ha Ha Ha kicked off with a battle between Chun-Li and Cammy from Street Fighter. The two members appeared in their distinctive blue outfits, combining martial arts movements and stage interaction to recreate the game's combat spirit. The judging panel noted that the group maintained consistent energy throughout their performance and demonstrated seamless coordination in the action sequences.

Team Anh Bien transported the audience into the journey of the Straw Hat Pirates from One Piece. Their performance was crafted as a narrative with multiple layers of acting, creating the impression of a short film on stage. Judges praised the group's ability to build a storyline and execute smooth scene transitions, helping the audience follow the characters' emotions.

Meanwhile, team ATLAS brought a lively atmosphere with their transformation into the boy band Heartsteel from League of Legends. The members combined synchronized choreography, expressions, and stage formations. This group had also participated in the previous season's competition. The judging panel stated that the group showed clear progress in their stage presence and the overall refinement of their performance.

Team Oach Xa Lach chose the post-apocalyptic world of Gachiakuta for their entry. The two characters, Rudo Surebrec and Zanka Nijiku, were recreated with a gritty, powerful style. The performance used physical movements and stage effects to capture the spirit of the series. According to the judges, the group made an impression with their unique style, while maintaining strong emotion and pacing throughout their act.

Below the stage, hundreds of spectators watched each performance, recording with their phones and cheering when cosplayers appeared in impressive costumes. Many stood throughout the stage area to capture every moment of transformation, choreography, and contestant interaction.

In the final results, for the individual category, Kim Loan secured third place, Ha Thi Phuong Ngan received second place, while first place went to Le Tan Dat for his portrayal of Sakuko. In the group category, team Anh Bien earned third place, team ATLAS took second place, and team Oach Xa Lach became the champion of this year's season.

The prize structure was evenly distributed across the two categories. In the individual category, the champion received 10 million VND in cash, the second-place winner received 7 million VND, and the third-place winner received 5 million VND. For the group category, the winning team received 15 million VND, the second-place team received 10 million VND, and the third-place team received 5 million VND. The remaining top 10 contestants received one million VND in prize money along with various technology gifts from sponsors.

According to the judging panel, scoring criteria focused on: accuracy to the original character, stage presence, and the construction of the performance content. Additionally, costumes, accessories, props, and lighting effects were important factors determining the final results.

Thai Anh

Photos: Quynh Tran, Hieu Luong