Top 10 most cosplayed universes
Have you ever wondered why at every convention you see another Naruto or Harley Quinn? It is not a coincidence. Some worlds simply lend themselves to cosplay – simple outfits, iconic characters, and a huge fan base. Below is a subjective list (based on years of observation) of the 10 universes that dominate conventions around the world.
Note: this is not a ranking of the best, only the most frequently seen.
1# Naruto – the eternal king of simplicity and recognition
Why so common?
An orange jacket, a headband, and a few shuriken are almost enough. Characters like Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, and Sakura are instantly recognisable, and wigs do not need to be perfect.
Difficulty level: Easy (most versions)
Most popular characters: Naruto, Sasuke, Kakashi, Itachi, Hinata
What is surprising? People still cosplay from Shippuden, but Boruto is appearing more often.
Tip for beginners: headband + black t-shirt + fake kunai = you are already a shinobi.
2# Genshin Impact – the modern king of conventions
Why?
A mobile/PC game with a huge community, beautifully designed characters, and distinct colours. Additionally, many wigs in intense shades (blue, purple, pink).
Difficulty level: Medium (props can be complex)
Top characters: Lumine, Aether, Hu Tao, Xiao, Venti, Raiden Shogun
What you need to know? A Genshin cosplay usually requires a well-fitted wig – this is where records for complicated hairstyles are set.
Tip: if you want to stand out, make a weapon from EVA foam. People love the Summit Shapers.
3# Marvel (especially Spider-Man and Deadpool)
Why?
The MCU movies did their job. Spider-Man (any version) is cheap and comfortable – a bodysuit from an online shop plus a mask. Deadpool – talkative and mocking character that draws crowds.
Difficulty level: Easy (bodysuit versions) / Hard (armours)
Who dominates? Spider-Man (Miles too), Deadpool, Loki, Captain America
Interesting fact: Loki is often chosen by women as a genderbend – and it works very well.
Tip: Marvel is perfect for a last-minute cosplay – black outfit + a Spider-Man patch and you are ready.
4# DC – Batman, Joker and Harley Quinn at every turn
Why?
Dark atmosphere, easily available accessories, and huge recognisability even among non-comic fans. Additionally, Harley's makeup is very showy.
Difficulty level: Medium (Batman armours) / Easy (Joker in a suit)
Most common characters: Batman, Joker (especially the 2019 version), Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman
What is new? After The Batman (2022), the emo/dark Batman is back in style.
Tip: avoid another Ledger Joker in a torn coat – go for your own interpretation.
5# Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) – the boom of recent years
Why?
Beautiful patterns on haori, animal masks, and distinctive swords (Nichirin). The anime is so popular that even people who have not watched it recognise Nezuko with her bamboo mouthpiece.
Difficulty level: Easy (Tanjiro's school uniform) / Medium (patterns on fabrics)
Top characters: Tanjiro, Nezuko, Zenitsu, Rengoku, Shinobu
Note: Nezuko requires a bamboo mouthpiece – be prepared for difficulty drinking at the convention.
Tip: the easiest way to start is with Tanjiro's coat – the checker pattern can be painted with fabric paint.
6# Star Wars – a classic that never fades
Why?
For some it is nostalgia, for others the chance to make an impressive armour. Plus many online tutorials and ready-made 3D templates.
Difficulty level: Medium (Jedi – robe + tunic) / Hard (stormtrooper, Vader)
Most common characters: Rey, Kylo Ren, Darth Vader, stormtroopers, The Mandalorian
Is it worth it? A well-made stormtrooper is always the star of photos.
Tip: lightsabers can be made from PVC pipes and LED tape – cheap and effective.
7# My Hero Academia – ideal for groups
Why?
Hero costumes are colourful, diverse, and relatively simple to construct. Additionally, the universe encourages group cosplays (the whole class 1-A).
Difficulty level: Easy (training outfits) / Medium (props like Hawks' wings)
Most popular: Deku, Bakugo, Todoroki, Uraraka, All Might
What stands out? Wigs with characteristic streaks (e.g. Todoroki's two-colour hair).
Tip: if you do not have a wig, Aizawa (sleeping bag + scarf) is always a good choice.
8# Attack on Titan – for fans of military style
Why?
Survey corps jackets, equipment belts, and ODM gear (3D manoeuvre gear) – this is a technical challenge, but the wow effect is guaranteed. Plus, Eren's bun is simple.
Difficulty level: Medium (jacket + belts) / Very hard (ODM with moving parts)
Main characters: Eren, Mikasa, Levi, Armin, Hange
Interesting fact: many people choose civilian versions (shirts, coats) – they are more comfortable.
Tip: you do not need to make ODM gear – a well-made survey corps jacket and a few belts already make an impression.
9# The Legend of Zelda – the kingdom of elegant cosplays
Why?
Link and Zelda are gaming icons, and their outfits (especially from Breath of the Wild) are very photogenic. Plus many versions (tunic, Gerudo outfit, armour).
Difficulty level: Medium (tunic + sword) / Hard (armour)
Most common: Link (all versions), Zelda (especially the royal one), Sidon
Advice: the Master Sword can be made from wood or 3D printed – it is essential.
Tip: if you want to stand out from the crowd, make Link in the Gerudo outfit (the disguise from Ocarina).
10# Final Fantasy – mainly VII, but not only
Why?
Cloud, Tifa, and Sephiroth are timeless legends. Outfits are relatively simple (jackets, harnesses), but wigs and swords (especially the Buster Sword) are a much higher level.
Difficulty level: Medium (outfit) / Hard (sword + wig)
Most common characters: Cloud, Tifa, Sephiroth, Aerith, Noctis (from XV)
What is surprising? Cosplays from FFX (Tidus, Yuna) still appear.
Tip: a Buster Sword made from cardboard and foam – doable in a weekend. Just watch out for doorframes.