Cosplay Competition and Costume Display

Presented by Dr Emerald L King

Tessu as Noctis Lucis Caelum from Final Fantasy XV, photography by Sammitography, edit by Tessu

Level Up Cosplay Competition 2026

The Level Up Video Games Showcase is a free, two-day celebration of Tasmanian-made video games. Hosted by Screen Tasmania and held at Princes Wharf No. 1, the showcase invites the public to explore 40 playable games created by Tasmanian developers, meet the makers and gain insights into the state’s vibrant and growing games industry.

The Level Up Cosplay Competition is designed as a friendly, video-game-themed celebration, inviting members of the cosplay community to come together, share their creativity, and enjoy a fun, family-friendly environment, all while experiencing the games on display throughout the event. 

  • Best Video Game Character Cosplay

  • Best Constructed Cosplay

  • Best Compiled Cosplay

Location: Princes Wharf 1
Event Date: Saturday 18 April 2026
Registration Closes: Thursday 16 April 2026*

*online registrations will close on Thursday 16 April, or until capacity is reached. If the competition doesn’t reach capacity, on the day sign ups will be permitted.

Download the rules
ENTER THE COMPETITION

select “COSPLAY ENTRY”

Prizes sponsored by

Level Up Cosplay Costume Display

Display your cosplay costumes as part of the Level Up Video Games Showcase alongside 40 playable games created by Tasmanian developers.

Five mannequins are available to showcase your game based cosplay costumes.

APPLY HERE

Terms & Conditions:

  • You must be available to set up your cosplay for display during Level Up installation (dates and time TBC).

  • Your cosplay will need to remain on display until the end of the two day event.

  • Your Cosplay will be behind barriers and a ‘No Touch’ policy will apply.

  • Costumes are displayed with the understanding that while every effort will be made to prevent damage, Dr Emerald L King, Level Up, Screen Tasmania and the venue will hold no responsibility for any possible damage to your cosplay costume.

  • Preference may be given to developers showcasing their work at Level Up.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Level Up Cosplay Competition will be judged LIVE during your walk on stage - there is no need to submit a build book. There will be no time for prejudging, although judges may take the time to look at your costumes during Marshalling

  • Costumes in the Level Up Cosplay Competition do not need to be made by the wearer. Please note, only hand made costumes will be elegible for Best Constructed.

    Costumes submitted for display in the Cosplay Costume display may be bought, compiled, or hand made.

  • There is no age restriction for participation, but young people or children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

  • You are welcome to wear cosplay at Level Up. Please remember that Level Up Video Games Showcase is a free family-friendly event. The event organisers reserve the right to request modifications or deny entry to any costume or prop that is unsafe or unsuitable for a family-friendly environment.  

    Costumes must not be culturally offensive or discriminatory. Any imagery or symbols related to hate groups are not permitted at the event. You must not wear realistic military or first responder uniforms or costumes that would be easily confused for these by the public.

    For more detail, please read the Competition Rules.

  • 1)    Props must not be longer than 180cm.

    2)    Props must not be too heavy for the cosplayer to safely carry or manipulate by themselves.

    3)    Zero tolerance for realistic, sharp, or dangerous weapons. This includes Nerf weapons that still have their firing mechanism, and replica swords or live steel

    4)    Realistic-looking firearms are not allowed. This includes orange/red-tipped realistic-looking firearms. If you are unsure, please email the event organiser.

    5)    Non-realistic weapons in plastic/wood/foam/cardboard etc are allowed so long as they comply with the above restrictions. Fantasy firearms must have an orange/red tip.

    6)    Absolutely no pyrotechnics and/or explosives.

  • For questions related to the Cosplay Competiton and Cosplay disply, please email emerald.king@utas.edu.au with “Level Up Cosplay” in the subject.

    For all other matters related to Level Up, please contact  info@screen.tas.gov.au or call 03 6165 5070.