8Bit/Digi

Let’s be honest, we are all gonna go to a fan convention or cosplay gathering when the shelter-in-place is lifted. Yet we also need to play it safe until a vaccine is made or we all develop heard immunity. That is why I have made this list of cosplay suggestions for a post COVID-19 convention scene.

From lovable anime characters to battle harden video game villains, the options are endless. This is a look at five that will appeal to anyone, be it a seasoned cosplayer or one new to the craft.

5. Miyako Hoshino

Let’s start the first entry with one that would appeal to those who are either new to cosplaying or want to do something simple. Miyako Hoshino from Wataten!: An Angel Flew Down to Me is perfect for both of those reasons in this post COVID-19 convention scene. All one needs is a tracksuit, a surgical mask, a pair of sunglasses (and maybe a wig).

Just be prepared for people to either give you the stink eye or shout “Mya-nee” at you (if you’ve watched the anime then both of these will make sense).

4. Strategic Homeland Division Operative

The Strategic Homeland Division is a clandestine stay-behind agency that are featured in Tom Clancy’s The Division. This is another ideal choice for those who are starting to get into cosplay. Just iron on a Strategic Homeland Division patch onto a jacket or shirt while you could get a mask and the needed gear from a surplus store. Like the game, one can customize their cosplay based on their style or preference.

Given how prepared one will be to trek through a city hit by a pandemic, this is the perfect cosplay for a post-COVID 19 convention.

3. Psycho Mantis

One of the most iconic side villains in the Metal Gear series is the psychic solider known as Psycho Mantis. While only appearing in a few entries, cosplayers will have a choice between different versions of the character. Both versions involve wearing a gas mask (perfect for a post COVID-19 convention).

There is the classic look that involves either a trench coat or a BDSM outfit with a gas mask. Or go for the version that appeared in The Phantom Pain, this requires a black straight jacket and a red wig.

2. Kai Chisaki (aka Overhaul)

Making his appearance at the end of Season 3, Kai Chisaki (aka Overhaul) has grown to become one of the most popular characters in My Hero Academia. This cosplay is perfect for fans of the series who also like to dress classy and need a reason to wear a mask. Given how popular the series is among cosplayers, this is perfect for conventions and gatherings.

Most of his outfit can be found at any store; like the tie, shirt and pants (or you might have them already). The mask and the coat will require some creativity. However, one could also just find them online.

1. Hunk

No character is better prepared to deal with a pandemic then HUNK (aka The Grim Reaper). He is the Umbrella Security Service top operative and a series favorite. First appearing as “The 4th Survivor” in Resident Evil 2, he has gone to appear in a number of spin-offs and main entry titles.

All one needs is some SWAT gear then slap the Umbrella logo on it. As a bonus, you could also try cosplaying as the many U.S.S. operatives that appeared in Operation Raccoon City.

What do you think of our suggestions? Is their cosplay you think is perfect for a post COVID-19 convention scene? Share your thoughts in the comment section bellow. I also recommend checking out Carbon Costume as a starting point when making your cosplay. Most of the military gear and uniforms can be purchased at Mountain View Surplus (help support local business).

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides an insight into the video game community and industry of the San Francisco Bay Area.