In Character Cosplay Contest

Think you can stay perfectly in character? The In-Character Cosplay Contest is your chance to prove it! Contestants will face off in a series of fun, improv-style rounds designed to test just how true to character you can stay. Round by round, participants will be eliminated until the Top 3 most in-character cosplayers are crowned!

General Info & Pre-Registration

  • Badge Required: All contestants must have a valid Ichibancon badge. No exceptions.
  • Sign-Ups: Pre-registration is online and handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • On-Site Sign-Ups: If spots are still open or participants don’t check in on time, walk-ups may be accepted at the event.
  • Costumes & Characters:
    • Any existing character from recognizable media is welcome.
    • Original characters are accepted, but please note they can be more challenging to portray in this contest since judges and the audience may not be as familiar with them.
    • Variants or alternate universe versions (e.g., “School Boy [Character],” “Emo [Character]”) are also welcome, but contestants should convincingly sell their portrayal to advance.

Contest Rounds

Round 1: Monologue/Action

  • Each contestant has 20–30 seconds to deliver a line, short monologue, or action that shows off their character.
  • Time limits will be enforced.
  • After everyone performs, judges will deliberate and cut the contestant pool in half.

Round 2: Interview with the MC

  • Contestants will be interviewed by the MC, who will ask in-character questions to test how well participants can stay true to their role.
  • Each contestant will have 45–90 seconds to respond in character.
  • Answers should reflect the character’s personality, tone, and style.
  • After all interviews, judges will deliberate and eliminate another half of the contestants.

Round 3: Audience Scene

  • Finalists will be given a random scenario, drawn from prompts submitted by the audience.
  • Contestants will act out the scene in character for 60–135 seconds and may need to work with a random audience volunteer.
  • Judges will deliberate and crown the Top 3 winners of the contest.

Whether you’re a natural performer, a cosplay veteran, or just love slipping into character, this contest is all about creativity, fun, and commitment. Show us your best performance and may the most in-character cosplayer win!

Apply on Mobile!

Acceptance emails will begin being sent out 12/07/2025
Sign ups Close on 01/30/2026