The Gamer.com - 8/21/17 - "15 Steamy Rising YouTubers You Should Be Watching"

Original link: http://www.thegamer.com/rising-youtubers-should-be-watching/

Long before the lovely ladies of LAN graced our screens via Twitch and Plays.tv, YouTube served as our haven for getting our fix of geek girl goodness. Popular nerd culture video formats such as Let’s Plays, Loot Crate unboxings, and speed runs can all trace their roots back to YouTube, where online audiences eagerly awaited each exciting installment week after week after week. Twitch may have seen a massive rise in popularity as a streaming site for everything related to gaming, cosplay, and Bob Ross, but YouTube still endures as the channel of choice for ongoing content even today.

It should come as no surprise then that there is still a number of enterprising souls who are churning up huge waves on YouTube. These collective queens of content creation continue to charm and enamor us day in and day out with their unique contributions to the worldwide video-verse, and they’re only just getting started. Today we will celebrate our favorite rising YouTube stars and shed a spotlight on the latest and greatest ladies of gaming and geekhood.

Did your favorite female YouTuber make the cut? Who would YOU add on to our list? Let us know in the comments below!

15. Stefanie Joosten - She Really Just Does It All

You may not recognize the name Stefanie Joosten, but if you’re a fan of the Metal Gear franchise of games, you have definitely seen and heard her before! This self-proclaimed otaku served as both the face/body model and voice actress for the character Quiet in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, a role that immediately and effortlessly elevated her as a hot new force in worldwide gaming culture. Prior to her rise as a gaming goddess, her career consisted mainly of small-time acting and modeling gigs in her home country of the Netherlands. However, Joosten appears to have really come into her own as a gaming industry influencer, appearing as a host and journalist at various international gaming and media events, and even performed “Quiet’s Theme” live at the 2016 Game Awards in Los Angeles. Today, she maintains a YouTube channel where she catalogs her travels and forays into media events, and even streams classic video games on Twitch.

14. Yammy XOX - A Pink-Haired Beauty

This pink-haired British beauty, Yammy XOX, first launched her gaming-focused YouTube channel, ChicksCanGame, in 2011, and has been charming audiences ever since. Her main games of choice are Minecraft and Sims 4, both of which spawned her most popular video series formats, the 100 Baby Challenge (Sims 4) and Crazy Craft 3.0 (Minecraft). Other games she’s played on video and stream include Call of Duty, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Garry’s Mod, and a variety of flash, horror, and mobile games. In addition to her solo shenanigans, Yammy is also known for teaming up with other gaming streamers and YouTubers for collaborative playthroughs of various titles. Chief among her friends list are LDShadowLady, Dangthatsalongname, Smallishbeans, Seapeekay, and Joey Graceffa. She even formed her own gaming clan, the Pixel Pact, with LDShadowLady, Vengelfe, MittyMoxx, and others.

13. Amy Lee33 - Crafting Her Way Into Your Heart

Though her channel could still be considered young at only 4 years of activity, Amy Lee33 already boasts an impressive online following, having amassed 500,000 subscribers within her first year and a half of being a YouTuber. Since then, that number has ballooned to over 1 million subscribers to date, and it’s not hard to see why. Her claim to fame is her Minecraft-focused videos and streams, with her appearances and collaborations with fellow creator Stampylongnose in the renowned “Stampy’s Lovely World” standing out among her achievements as a devoted Minecrafter. Her notable contributions to Stampy’s Lovely World include the Lovely Jubbley Love Love Petals, as well as having planted the first rose in Funland, which still stands there today as a testament to Amy’s endeavors.

12. BrizzyVoices - A Woman Of Many Voices

Gamer, voice actress, cosplayer, nerd knowledge extraordinaire, BrizzyVoices does it all! That’s no exaggeration either; between voice acting, cosplay tutorials, daily vlogs, and unboxing/haul videos, it’s hard to think of something that Brizzy hasn’t done yet. A majority of Brizzy’s videos focus on her talents as a voice impressionist and actress, and cover everything from musical performances, parodies, full cast/series impressions, and her famous “MAKE ‘EM SAY IT” challenges. Her most popular videos include “Voice ALL the Original Pokémon” where she does her best impressions of all 151 Pokémon from Generation I, and “After Ever After (Jon Cozart Disney Cover)” where she performs a multi-part song while cosplaying as Disney princesses Pocahontas, Arielle, Belle, and Jasmine. Other voice impression videos have featured characters from Overwatch, Nickelodeon cartoons, and even other YouTubers.

11. Lunity - A Beautiful Songbird

While it isn’t uncommon for musical artists on YouTube to perform song covers as part of their repertoire, Lunity takes it to another level. Rather than stick with the original lyrics and arrangements of today’s most popular songs, Lunity turns them into parody covers and changes their lyrics to reflect the actual gaming experiences of League of Legends players. The catchy radio-friendly hooks and way-too-relatable lyrics are a surprisingly entertaining combination, and it certainly helps that Lunity has the voice and heavenly looks of an angel. Every real life moment from hopping into Duo Queue with someone special (“Duo With You,” a parody of Carly Rae Jepsen’s “I Really Like You”) to dealing with trolls in bad games (“Blame Me,” a parody of Ariana Grande’s “Break Free”) is beautifully and hilariously captured by this key-smashing songbird, and players will certainly find solace from the in-game saltiness by listening to Lunity’s music.

10. Strawburry17 - From YouTuber to TV Host

From music maker to geek queen to Disney XD hostess, Meghan Camarena a.k.a. Strawburry17 is a prime example of what passion, persistence, and personality can accomplish. She started her YouTube career in 2009 as a musician, performing covers of Owl City, He Is We, and even trending songs like “I’m A Gummy Bear” alongside her brother and friends. While Meghan’s penchant for performance garnered her a large devoted following early on, it wasn’t until she began vlogging in 2010 through her IRL channel “Lifeburry” that she found her stride as an influential YouTube persona. Through Lifeburry, she would share her daily activities with her fans (“Burries”) and allowed audiences to tag along in her journey to follow her passion and build up her career. It wasn’t long before her efforts payed off, as she saw breakthrough success through her inclusion in The Amazing Race 22 & 24, a role on web series Video Game High School, and eventually landing into her current role as a hostess for Disney XD.

9. Nicki Taylor - Her Voice Is As Beautiful As Her Face

California-based crooner Nicki Taylor is more than just a pretty face. She is also the showstopping voice behind two of the most famous songs in League of Legends history: “Here Comes Vi,” the intro song for the eponymous steam-powered punch girl, and “Worlds Collide,” the acclaimed theme of the 2015 League of Legends Season 5 World Championship Finals. A capable artist in her own right, Nicki also wrote and recorded her own original songs, which can be heard on her YouTube channel, and has collaborated with other notable music nerds in the League community, including Lunity, Instalok, and Falconshield. Her recent videos have documented her travels to Japan, Mexico, and PAX East, performing live at various gaming events, and highlights from her gameplay Twitch streams.

8. MittyMoxx - Our Favorite Mermaid

This green-haired gamer and makeup artist began her YouTube career in 2011 with coverage of her visit to Minecon, and she has quickly grown into a beloved member of the Minecraft community. Mitty’s videos consist of playthroughs and commentaries on her adventures in Minecraft and The Sims, including a whimsical soap opera-esque series called “Wifey-Craft,” wherein she engages in a story of “Minecraft marriage” with fellow Minecraft maniacs Sly, ImmortalHD, and Rachelkip. She is also part of the Pixel Pact formed by Yammy XOX and LDShadowLady. Aside from gaming, Mitty also shows off her sick makeup artistry in her videos, having created stunning looks for formal, fun, and fantastical occasions. Recently, Mitty started another channel, “Mr. Mitty,” which focuses on fashion, beauty, and DIY projects.

7. AshleyMariee - Slaying The Instagram Game

While this siren certainly slays the selfie game on Twitter and Instagram, AshleyMariee is best known for her variety gaming channels on YouTube and Twitch, as well as her irresistable charm and refreshing sense of transparency in her videos. The sheer breadth of her portfolio is its own tour de force, covering everything from Let’s Plays, Mod Showcases, Q&A’s, singing, and travel vlogs. Ashley’s games library is just as immense, with PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, Minecraft, Overwatch, Dead By Daylight, and Dream Daddy comprising the content of her recent videos. But the prominent feature of Ashley’s channel is her “Q&A Saturdays,” where she steps away from the games and gets real with her viewers. Attentive audiences are allowed an inside look into Ashley’s life and mind, and experience Ashley’s genuineness for themselves.

6. Vixella - A Vivacious Violet-Haired Beauty

The vivacious violet-haired video gamer Vixella is a renowned player of The Sims 4, and hosts a variety of Sims-related videos on her YouTube channel. She made her debut on Christmas Eve of 2013 with her holiday-themed offering “The Sims 3: Create A Sim | Christmas Inspired,” and her content is centered mainly on Let’s Plays, character creation, and build/playthrough challenges. Her vibrant fashion sense and even more vibrant personality breathe new life into her Sims videos, adding extra flair to her playthroughs of speed builds, Parenthood, and Legacy Challenges. Her earlier Sims uploads also feature the 100 Baby Challenge, various Let’s Builds, Disney Legacy, and Custom Content showcases. Other game titles that grace Vixella’s video library include Minecraft, Farmville, Roblox, Pokémon, and Animal Crossing.

5. Alodia Gosiengfiao - A Filipina Beauty

Quezon City’s queen of cosplay has certainly stepped up her game over the years, rising to new heights as an advocate for player and game industry development in Asian countries, as well as an international influencer who represents Eastern gaming and media culture. Alodia has already established herself as a household name in the Philippines, and is quickly approaching that same level of renown in cosplay and gaming communities all over the world. Her YouTube channel is both a monument to her achievements as a creator and a living snapshot of her personal growth, and showcases her cosplay work, worldly travels, and appearances at media events in various countries. While many know her as a huge fan of DotA 2, she has recently shown love for League of Legends, Final Fantasy, and Horizon Zero Dawn.

4. LDShadowLady - Her Personality’s As Colorful As Her Hair

Deriving her name from her Xbox gamertag, LDShadowLady first showed up in the YouTube scene as a Call of Duty player in 2010. Soon after, she expanded her video game repertoire with her introduction to Minecraft in 2011, where her channel received a significant boost in subscribers following her appearance on YouTuber ZackScottGames’ personal Minecraft server. Known for her various serial videos including “Let’s Play Minecraft,” “Minecraft Singleplayer,” and “Shadowcraft 1&2,” LDShadowLady has firmly established herself as one of the top Minecraft players and personalities in the United Kingdom, with her current subscribers numbering over 3 million. Though she eventually integrated MMORPGs, horror games, and FPS titles into her videos, she first and foremost remains as one of the most colorful and lovable mistresses of Minecraft.

3. OMGitsfirefoxx - This Girl’s Foxy

Though she is relatively new to the YouTube scene, OMGitsfirefoxx saw early success as a gamer and vlogger due her recurring role on the 2014 Minecraft Let’s Play series, “Mianite,” which she hosted alongside CaptainSparklez, ii_Jericho_ii, and Syndicate. She went on to find further success through streaming on Twitch and posting videos on YouTube, and in addition to Minecraft, she has also recently played Overwatch and Counterstrike: Global Offensive. Aside from gaming, her streams also feature creative sessions where she makes art using perler beads. Among her most noteworthy achievements are inclusion on the Forbes “30 Under 30” list in 2016, being named the Most Followed Female On Twitch by Guinness World Records 2017: Gaming Edition, and hosting the 2017 SXSW Gaming Awards in Austin, TX.

2. Pterodactylsftw - She’ll Beat You In LoL Any Day

One of the most prolific solo gamers of the Team Dignitas family, this dino-titled diva has had quite an amazing journey to where she is now. Pterodactylsftw began as a casual League of Legends fan who struck up an unexpected friendship with Dignitas’ former star League player Scarra at a convention. This chance encounter led to Team Dignitas inviting her to join as a standalone Counterstrike streamer, where she reached the rank of Supreme Master: First Class in 2015. In 2016, Pterodactylsftw achieved yet another top placement, this time as a Junkrat and Roadhog main in Overwatch, where she ranked #77 in the world for competitive play. Though her YouTube presence is derived mainly from the main Team Dignitas channel, she nonetheless continues to represent gaming prowess and excellence on behalf of her team.

1. KayPea - A Canadian Beauty

While this Canada-based League of Legends streamer certainly needs no introduction, we can’t help but gush over KayPea anyways. She got her start as a League streamer under the banner of Siv Industries in 2014, but left in 2016 to strike out her own path. Finding her stride as a solo queue extraordinaire, KayPea began featuring the sickest and silliest moments of her gaming streams as montage videos on YouTube, and now regularly posts highlight reels of narrow escapes, clutch objective steals, and skillful/accidental kills and outplays. Though most high-ranking solo queue players eventually get picked up by gaming organizations to play professionally, KayPea has enjoyed a considerable amount of success as a one-woman act, and continues to enchant fans with her explosive personality, charming facial expressions, and entertaining League gameplay. There is no denying KayPea’s formidable presence within the online gaming realm, and she easily tops our list for rising YouTubers that you should be watching NOW!

The Gamer.com - 8/12/17 - "15 Of The Steamiest Jessica Nigri Cosplays"

Original link: http://www.thegamer.com/15-of-the-steamiest-jessica-nigri-cosplays/

You can’t talk about cosplay without talking about Jessica Nigri. She was among the first cosplayers that helped to bring the art of being a nerd to the forefront of entertainment culture, and continuously brings innovation, passion, and a much-welcomed sense of honesty and goofiness to today’s convention scene. She continuously pushes the envelope with her creations, and her costume portfolio is very diverse, hosting a wide breadth of video game, anime, pop culture, and modeling works. Jessica is also notable for being able to rock amazingly-detailed and creatively-designed costume armor in one moment, and then sexy and playful outfits in the next moment.

So rejoice, dear readers, because the latter of her two costume styles will be the focus of today’s feature! It’s no secret that this cosplaying siren of silliness has a sultry side that she’s not afraid to flaunt, and we absolutely love her for it! So let’s not drag out the anticipation any longer, and jump right into our list! Marvel at the beauty and allure of the cosplay queen that is… Jessica Nigri!


15. Savage Rogue (X-Men)

This is definitely not your average mutant costume! Based on the raggedy version of Rogue from the Savage Land story arc from the Uncanny X-Men comics, Jessica trades the Nuwali-made wilds for the summery shores of her local beach in order to show off this simple yet sultry ensemble. But don’t let a name like “Savage Rogue” put you off. Through the wildness, Jessica’s sweetness still shines through in her brilliant ocean-blue eyes and slight smile. Canonically, Rogue was stripped of her powers while she was in the Savage Land, but who needs powers when you look this gorgeous in nothing but rags? Magneto may have only had a short-lived romantic interest in our favorite power-draining heroine, but we’re 100% head-over-heels for Jessica in this cosplay!


14. Freddy Krueger, Bishouju Version

This is one Freddy Krueger that gives us nothing but sweet dreams! Beyond a mere genderbent cosplay, this bold new design is actually a product of Japanese illustrator Shunya Yamashita. Yamashita’s art inspired a whole line of bishouju (“beautiful girl”) statues that reimagine iconic movie characters like Chucky and Jason Voorhees as bright-eyed anime-style beauties. The claw-wielding dream killer Freddy Krueger is among the most famous of these designs, and Jessica captures the sinister-meets-sexy aesthetic of Yamashita’s illustration perfectly. The classic Krueger elements are all there, from the striped sweater to the clawed glove and brown hat, while evoking the allure of Yamashita’s redesign. Fun fact: this is also referred to as the Kotobukiya version of Freddy, named after the online distributing company that ships these figures across the U.S.


13. BAEwatch Mercy (Baywatch/Overwatch Mashup)

Mercy me, this is one sizzling character mashup! When it comes to cosplay, sometimes less is more, and with Jessica we get a lot more than meets the eye! At first glance, this looks like just a regular swimsuit, but note the red hue of the piece. This evokes the classic color scheme of everyone’s favorite daytime TV series about lifeguards, Baywatch. Not too surprising, considering that a rebooted Baywatch movie was released recently. But wait! It’s not just a simple Baywatch cosplay either! Check out Jessica’s hairdo, which should look suspiciously familiar to any online gaming devotees who have ever screamed out for healing. That’s right, it’s the same hair as Mercy from Overwatch! The result is a beautiful and subtly brilliant design, expertly conceived and modeled by the lovely Ms. Nigri.


12. Mad Moxxi (Borderlands)

In the words of Mad Moxxi herself, are you ready for this? Well, we certainly weren’t ready for to be blown away by this bedside bombshell of a costume! It is befitting that Jessica chose a bedroom boudoir-style look for this cosplay, given how shamelessly promiscuous the original Hodunk hostess from the Borderlands is known to be. Even the “tip jar” sign is cheeky nod to Moxxi’s streak for immodesty, though Jessica keeps it classy and (mostly) safe for work in this shot. Jessica also does the normal full costume of Mad Moxxi, but we like this “behind-the-scenes” concept a lot; it fits the essence of Moxxi very well, and almost feels like it could be an actual hidden Easter Egg from the game itself. Perhaps the developers snuck it into one of the DLCs after seeing Jessica’s cosplay!


11. Nidalee (League Of Legends)

Normally, we would flee in terror if a spear-wielding predator confronted us in the wilds, but this is one headhunting hottie that we can’t help but stop and stare at. Jessica once again proves her creativity through the masterful use of both costume and environment to convey this cunning creation from League of Legends. Precision and attention to detail make these deceptively simple-looking pieces pop, and setting it against the forest backdrop only adds to the story. The spearhead and teeth bones, which were crafted by propmaker Vensy, are a nice touch to this costume. The jungle-jumping Nidalee has never looked so good, and we can’t wait for her to emerge and gank our lane. Keep the Cougar Form at home; we’ll take this gorgeous Human Form any day!


10. Rikku (FFX-2)

Even the most devoted of Al Bhed need a break from sphere hunting every now and then! Jessica shows that her summer bod is always ready with her Rikku cosplay, and she’s ready to kick back and catch some rays. Despite how minimal this costume may appear, the details from the original design are carefully captured, from the beads in the hair to the individual knots on the arm covers. This well-made work shines superbly in this shot, and whether she’s swimming along the shores of Southern California or bumping around blitzballs by the beaches of Besaid, Jessica goes from beach bum to beach beauty with just one glance. Final Fantasy X-2 certainly encouraged you to swap around dress spheres, but there’s no need to switch out from this sizzling number! This must be the Thief dress sphere, because Jessica just stole our hearts with this cosplay!


9. Black Cat, Boudoir (Marvel)

This cat burglar will take your jewels, but not before taking your breath away! Jessica’s jaw-dropping rendition of Felicia Hardy (a.k.a. Black Cat) shows how the feline-themed femme fatale may spend her free time between heists. We can definitely imagine her slipping into more casual attire, stretching out in front of the fire, and enjoying a glass of fine wine while daydreaming about Peter Parker. Even while in “casual” mode, Jessica still shows off her classy yet commanding presence, with her outfit adorned with diamonds (possible spoils from her last job) and her eye mask retaining a sensuality and sense of mystery about what lies beneath her stone-cold exterior. Here’s hoping we manifest our own spider powers soon so that this Black Cat will finally notice us.


8. Veigar, Boudoir (League of Legends)

Yordles may be one of the most hated species in League of Legends, but one look at this not-so-Tiny Mistress of Evil may change your mind! The League’s diminutive dealer of dark magic gets a delightful and dreamy twist with Jessica’s genderbent boudoir version of Veigar. Discarding the dreadful robes and wizard staff, Jessica gives us a sensual look at the most malicious champion of the Rift, weaving her own brand of magic with her killer eyes and curvaceous form. And as you can see, she doesn’t need to cast Event Horizon in order to stun us; one glance at her can stop even the most fed junglers dead in their tracks. Simply put, if looks could kill, Jessica would be on a Legendary spree with this outfit.


7. Arcade Miss Fortune, Boudoir (League Of Legends)

That’s no glitch in the Matrix; that’s you doing a double take at this Double-Tapping game diva! When League of Legends‘ dual-wielding marks(wo)man Miss Fortune gets the Nigri treatment, the results are pixel-perfect. In this picture by Fake Nerd Boy, Jessica is rendered as a gaming goddess dressed in Pixel Panties and a Vensy-made hat and headphones, and one look is enough to leave players and trolls alike in Shock and Awe. As both a costumer and a gamer, Jessica knows when to come out Guns Blazing and when to take it easy and relax. After long marathons of ski-ball and Dance Dance Revolution at the local arcade, even the most hardcore gamers need to unwind, and Jessica captures that sentiment beautifully here. Game geek? Gorgeous fashionista? Get you a girl that can do both!


6. Lucoa (Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid)

Regardless of who you think is best waifu material on Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid, we can all agree one one think: Jessica is the sexiest Lucoa we’ve seen so far. Rocking a swimsuit/boudoir mashup of the character, Miss Nigri shows off the best of the character’s… um, personality in this playful and sensual shot. But alongside the sexiness is the confidence; Jessica rocks everything she wears, and is certain to capture the essence of any character she cosplays even as she puts her own spin on them. The multicolored palette of Lucoa’s hair and eyes is said to be drawn from the characteristic rainbow hues of Quetzalcoatl, the dragon on which she is based, but we’re okay with Jess showing off her human side and keeping all that scary dragon-ness hidden for now.


5. Ahri, Cat Keyhole Lingerie (League Of Legends)

This cosplay turns the meme into a dream, and is perfect for your League team! Japanese-designed cat keyhole lingerie was big in the fashion and cosplay community in 2016, and even though it has come and gone, we can still appreciate the cosplay trends it has inspired. Like this feisty fusion of fad and fur, which never fails to light a Fox-Fire in our hearts. The animalistic aesthetics of Ahri work surprisingly well with the feline fashion piece, and when you’ve got Jessica Nigri putting on display, one can’t help but be Charmed. That mischievous smile, those piercing eyes, the fluffy tails, this costume has a little bit of everything for everyone! Seeing this almost makes us miss the meme-worthy trends of yester-year. Almost.


4. Pool Party Ziggs (League Of Legends)

This summery take on League‘s boisterous Hexplosives Expert looks like it’s ready to make a splash! The first round of Pool Party skins for champions sent huge waves through the community with their festive and fun seasonal designs. And of course, when we think festive and fun, we think of Nigri, who wasted no time getting in on the poolside action. Everything about this costume is silly and lighthearted, from the duck-shaped floatie to the arm wings and even the comically-huge swim goggles. Jessica herself has expressed how much fun she had making and wearing this cosplay, and we can see that energy shine through in every part of it. With so much summer crammed into one picture, we got the itch to find the nearest pool and dive right in! Bombs away!


3. Swimsuit Cinder (RWBY)

Once again, we have another example of Jessica showing off her voice acting talents in tandem with her cosplay talents. She provided the voice of Cinder in the English dub of American anime web series RWBY, and even though Cinder proves to be the bane of Team RWBY’s existence, this is one villainous vixen we can’t help but love. This Cinder-themed swimsuit was actually a present from one of Jessica’s fans, revealed on a past episode of Mail Mondays on her YouTube channel. As is typical of Jessica, she immediately showed love to her fans by doing a pool shoot with her new gift right after receiving it, and the results are RED HOT! We love when artists get into character, and Jessica makes for the most sensational Cinder we’ve ever laid eyes on.


2. Super Sonico

Here’s a fun bit of trivia: Jessica actually provided the English voice dubs for Super Sonico in the SoniComi video games, which were released on PC through Steam in 2011 and on PS3 in 2014. It’s only natural that a Super talented artist like Jessica would be able to capture Sonico’s beauty and grace not only in voice, but in costume as well. Sonico’s numerous appearances in games, novels, toys and other media may have resulted in a wide range of visual variations, but our favorite version is definitely the Jessica Nigri version. She rocks the trademark headphones and Cherry Red SG electric guitar that are emblematic of Sonico, while bringing her own flair to the character with a frilly white lingerie set, suggesting a momentary rest break in the pink-haired idol’s bustling music career.


1. Casual Tracer (Overwatch)

Cheers, love! The eye-candy is here! Overwatch‘s fan favorite Tracer is known for her English-inspired charm and insane mobility, but this version certainly has a lot more assets to bear. Jessica’s take on the time-skipping adventurer is so tantalizing that we can’t even Blink. As you can see, she has put aside the Pulse Pistols and chronal accelerator for the time being and Slipstreamed into more comfortable gear. Perhaps she’s enjoying some downtime between pushing payloads and capturing points? Or maybe getting ready for a quiet night of snuggles with Emily? Either way, we’ll have no trouble trying to Recall this vision of beauty in our minds. It was tough trying to decide which of Jessica’s amazing looks topped our list, but for this one, we’ll happily settle on a spot of tea and time travel. Keep calm and Nigri on!

The Gamer.com - 8/6/17 - "25 Of The Hottest Genderbent Cosplays"

Original link: http://www.thegamer.com/25-of-the-hottest-genderbent-cosplays/

Part of what makes our favorite movies, shows, and video games so dear and memorable to us are the characters. Every fan of comics, anime and beyond has a particular character that resonates with them, gets them excited, and relates to them on a personal level.

Enter the magical world of cosplay, where you can do more than relate and imagine. Through cosplay, you can be anyone or anything you want to be, and step outside your normal shell for a time. This growing trend among geeks and gamers has already taken the world by storm, and has given the pop culture fanatics a new way to celebrate everything they love. From superheroes to supervillains and every colorful cast member between, we can literally see our beloved characters come to life in all of their glory thanks to cosplay.

The following artists, however, take it one step further by giving traditional characters a playful twist. These cosplayers actually reimagined our favorite figures from the ground up, inverting their genders and giving us an exciting new look at the characters we grew up with. Today we will shine the spotlight on a few standout genderbent cosplays, and rediscover what made us excited about our favorite games and shows along the way.

Any noteworthy genderbend cosplays that we missed? Tell us in the comments section below!


25. Saiyaman (Dragonball Z) – Canhardlyfly Cosplay

Aww, c’mon Dragonball Z fans, don’t pretend like you don’t know who The Great Saiyaman was! The garishly-garbed “alter ego” of an adult Gohan is remembered as the DBZ character who singlehandedly raised the cheese level of the show to OVER 9000, which is saying a lot considering how overtly camp the Ginyu Force was. Maybe viewers would have been a lot less disconcerted if Saiyaman looked like Canhardlyfly instead! As you can see, she does away with the cheesy gimmicks and turns our resident King of Cringe into a sultry Saiyan in disguise. Eschewing that gaudy orange helmet for the World Tournament sunglasses ensemble turns out to be the right choice in this case; just look at that lovely face! Heck, seeing Saiyawoman in all her glory almost makes us forget how bad the original version was. Almost.


24. Soul (Soul Eater) – SutefaniiRoozu

She may be small in stature, but SutefaniiRoozu’s version of Soul still packs a supersized dose of spunk. As you can see, she’s ready for summer! This fun take on our favorite short-tempered death scythe breaks away from the grim atmosphere of the Soul Eater universe and brings a surprising lightness to the character, perfect for poolside shenanigans and beachfront kickbacks alike! But it’s the slight smirk that really ties this cosplay together, alluding to the deadly prowess that lurks beneath the cocky and casual demeanor. Simply put, it is a cosplay that speaks volumes with its simplicity. SutefaniiRoozu perfectly entwines the soul of Soul and the soul of summer with this piece; a slacker on the surface, ready to cull evil while catching rays.


23. Riku (Kingdom Hearts II) – Karlibra

While we certainly didn’t need another reason to love Riku from the Kingdom Hearts series, this beautiful rendition by Karlibra is very much welcomed. What makes this Riku cosplay great is that even though it preserves the same design elements and aesthetics of the original, you can see Karlibra’s personality and intensity of spirit shining through, making it a wonderful version of a franchise favorite. This is a cosplay that really speaks to the creator’s ability to represent her unique self through a recognized character, and it is gorgeous. Sure, everyone’s got a soft spot for the brooding, angsty edgelord types, but this is one case where warm and bright trumps cold and moody. No keyblades needed here; Karlibra’s smile alone can unlock hearts and repel darkness, and we love her for it.


22. Darius (League Of Legends) – Jynx

Who says you need to be a bloodthirsty battle-tested Noxian to bring the pain? Jynx is not just a creator and avid community supporter; she is also the general of her own army of death and destruction! Okay, that second part isn’t true, but she does make a very badass Darius. And when we say “make,” we mean she actually made all of it, from the armor to the axe, and even perfected that scowl that sears straight into your soul. Still, despite the ferocity, the beauty of her cosplay is undeniable. And it’s that combination of alluring and intimidating makes this little lady a true double threat; Jynx looks like she’ll capture your heart before swiftly cutting out. Luckily, she’s a sweetheart in person, so you won’t have to worry about her swinging that axe your way… maybe.


21.  Bahamut (Final Fantasy X) – Black Mage Cosplay

While the common choice for Final Fantasy cosplays are the main heroes and villains, this mistress of materia takes it to a whole new direction. Black Mage Cosplay’s characters of choice are the Summons (Aeons, Espers, Eidolons, whatever version is your favorite), and her recent creation, the almighty Bahamut of Final Fantasy X, is a showstopper, to say the least. Her design and conception of one of the franchise’s most famous and most powerful creatures is brilliant, and she nailed every detail, from the giant golden “dial” on the back to every individual “feather” on the wings. While her genderbent Cloud Strife and humanized Ifrit are awesome in their own right, the sheer majesty and intricacy of Bahamut has been perfectly captured in this complex and breathtaking cosplay.


20. Luffy (One Piece) – Riki Lecotey

You may recognize this vivacious vixen under her original moniker, “Riddle.” If that name doesn’t ring a bell, perhaps her portfolio of costume work will, with Dr. Girlfriend, Tira (Soulcalibur), Snow White, and the Player 2 assassin (Assassin’s Creed: Unity co-op mode) standing out among her most famous character recreations. And I bet even the most vicious pirates would stop dead in their tracks when they catch sight of this straw-hat captain! Riddle heats up the high seas with her sensuous version of Monkey D. Luffy, and no Devil Fruit out there can compete with her magnetic presence. Nami and Boa Hancock better watch out, because this cosplay queen is looking to be the next Lady of the Seas.


19. Quicksilver (X-Men: Days of Future Past) – Danica Rockwood

There’s a storm brewing in the East Coast convention scene, and it’s name is Hurricane Danica. From her days as “Dahlia Thomas” to her rise as a Patreon powerhouse, Danica Rockwood brings her own flair to contemporary characters in nerd culture. She was among the first to cosplay the quirky and controversial Days of Future Past version of Quicksilver, and while it took time for the silver speedster’s silly style to grow on initially-skeptical audiences, having this lovely version to look at certainly helped ease us into it. Goggles and a Pink Floyd shirt certainly are a far cry from the classic lightning bolt bodysuit, but Danica rocks it flawlessly. And she’s probably the only one who can make silver jackets looks fashionable.


18. Mario (Super Mario Bros.) – Ryuu Lavitz

Mario may be a standard staple of every convention, but how many of them look as cute as this? Ryuu Lavitz is another East Coast cosplay empress who is known for bringing the love to classic characters like Samus Aran, Kim Possible, and Catwoman. And even when it comes to Mario, Ryuu can’t help but shake things up a bit, choosing to rep the forgotten fan favorite Raccoon Mario from Super Mario Bros. 3. It’s the simple touches, like the fuzzy ears and trading out the plumber’s pants for a fluttery skirt, that elevate this cosplay allow it to 1-Up the average Mario, making it a fun inclusion on our list. If you enjoyed Ryuu’s Mario, you may even like her Shy Guy cosplay (though I suppose it should be called a “Shy Girl” cosplay in that case).


17. Jayce (League Of Legends) – Missyeru

They say that Helen of Troy had a face that launched a thousand ships. In a similar feat, Missyeru had the cosplay that launched a thousand League of Legends cosplayers. Okay, that may be a bit of a dramatization, but regardless of the numbers, there’s no denying that Missyeru played a major role in the sudden popularity spike of League of Legends in the cosplay scene. She broke out in 2012 as one of the first people to cosplay the power-punching Piltover champion Vi, and has since then been regarded as one of the paragons of League cosplay. As is typical of all Missyeru’s creations, her “Lady Jayce” cosplay is a shining example of technical brilliance and attention to detail. Everything from the finish on the armor to the choice of textiles on the clothing perfectly reflects the heroic nobility of the original character, as well as the futuristic setting from which his lore is drawn from.


16. Dio (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure) – Giada Robin

Italian-based cosplayer Giada Robin is known for her irresistible charm and playful energy, and as you can see, even a despicable villain like Dio Brando becomes fun and lovable when given the Giada treatment! Like her other creations, Giada makes this character her own, emphasizing the exaggerated poses and highly-expressive hand and facial features that are synonymous with the over-the-top nature of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure while allowing her personality to light up each shot. Whether she’s tackling simple or intensive costumes, Giada stays true to the “play” in “cosplay,” and that lighthearted approach is part of what makes her craft enjoyable. Her other genderbent offerings are worth praising as well, and include Vegeta, Super Android 17, Ezio Auditore, and Scar from The Lion King.


15. McCree (Overwatch) – RachniQueen

It’s hiiiiiigh noon! The only thing deadlier than this McCree’s Peacekeeper is her killer looks. RachniQueen absolutely slays with this cosplay, which maintains the rough-around-the-edges aesthetics while adding a a touch of beautiful and sexy to Overwatch‘s infamous gunslinger. The BAMF belt buckle and “Bad Ass” sunglasses are a nice touch, and the long brown hair fits the overall look nicely. While the original McCree is badass in his own right, no one could turn down having this delightful Deadshot pushing the payload alongside them. Can’t get enough of RachniQueen? Don’t worry, she’s got you covered: check out her steamy boudoir version of McCree. Hey, after a long day of killing sprees and Player of the Game highlights, even the deadliest gunslingers need to get comfy.


14. Kratos (God Of War) – Danielle DeNicola

One look at this Goddess of War and you’ll be praising the gods as well! The ferocity and savagery of Kratos is embodied in both the craft and presentation of this cosplay, even down to DeNicola’s “war face.” Add in some amazing post-production effects like the fiery blades and the crumbling ruins of a fictional Sparta, and you’ve got one amazing cosplay. Attention to detail and getting into character are typical of DeNicola’s work, and make all the difference as she transforms from her normal upbeat self into the unstoppable Ghost of Sparta. While Kratos is pretty much regarded as the best worst thing to happen to Sparta, the Pantheon of Gods, and humanity as a whole, this creative offering from DeNicola makes us forget about all the slaughter and destruction that has been unleashed by gaming’s most famous godslayer.


13. Roadhog (Overwatch) – Kam Legacy

This is one genderbent cosplay that instantly had us… hooked. While the classic Roadhog is known as a monumental presence of the Outback, this pint-sized version of the prodigious powerhouse is just as capable of the pushing the payload as any other agent of Overwatch. Kam Legacy is the pilot behind this cosplay, and beautifully interprets the character in a whole new light, showing off both grace and toughness. Even the stomach tattoo is spot-on! Kam is known mostly for her League of Legends cosplays, but also branches out in other games like Pokémon and Legend of Zelda for costume inspiration. Roadhog is her first foray into Overwatch cosplays, and we’re hoping she puts her spin on more characters for her upcoming projects!


12. Vega (Street Fighter) – Lizzufer

Take one part arcade fighter and one part gorgeous cosplayer, and you’ve got a recipe for a tantalizing twist on a classic video game character. With claws that kill and looks that thrill, Lizzufer transforms Street Fighter‘s Vega from a frightening murderer into a beautiful femme fatale… who is probably still a murderer. All jokes aside, the only thing deadly here is Lizzufer’s beauty. Having recently stepped into the world of cosplay, Lizzufer is already making a name for herself by putting her own twist on classic and modern characters. Her notable creations include Cammy from Street Fighter, San from Princess Mononoke, and even a humanized version of Deathwing from World of Warcraft: Cataclysm. We can expect even greater things from this up and coming cosplayer in the near future.


11. Arthas The Lich King (Warcraft) – Livia Chu

We all wish we could be as cool as this ice-born empress! According to Livia, this is both a genderbend and a mashup, combining elements of Warcraft‘s Lich King and Elsa from Disney’s Frozen, the result of which is the wicked and wintery “Lich Queen” you see pictured here. This cosplay also shows off Livia’s superb sewing and armor crafting skills, as well as her keen eye for design. The balance between her sources of inspiration are well-balanced, with the aesthetics Arthas and Elsa complimenting each other nicely without overpowering each other. The wig, the weapon, and the armor all feel like they belong together, while the beautifully blended backdrop of Northrend-meets-Arendelle paints a perfect portrait worthy of the Lich Queen’s presence.


10. Katsuki Bakugo (Boku No Hero Academia) – Stella Chu

With this cosplay, Stella aims to be a heroine that surpasses even you! This girl is already a bombshell on her own, which makes her perfect as the explosive and aggressive Bakugo. Stella is brilliant with all her designs, from intricate armor to alluring character-themed boudoir. She has an eye for detail and a creative flair that makes both her original and recreated costumes sublime works of art. This even applies to her skills in modeling and photography; everything from her facial expressions to how she moves and poses is calculated and carefully catered to the character of her cosplay. With her combination of beauty and brilliance, Stella is a true double threat, and we welcome her to grenade-punch her way into our hearts any day!


9. Vincent Valentine (Final Fantasy VII) – Vivid Vivka

Everyone’s favorite gun-wielding edgelord from Final Fantasy VII has gone from brooding to BAE with this genderbent cosplay. The showroom stunner known as Vivid Vivka is a true artist and devotee to detail, and has captured every part of Vincent Valentine perfectly. The pensive stare. The intricate claws on the glove. The numerous unnecessary belts that give all Final Fantasy characters their power. It’s all there! And as impressive as this cosplay is, this is actually one of Vivka’s earlier creations. She’s shown tremendous growth in her skills and inspirations since this costume was made, and there’s no telling what amazing work of art she will come up with next! But these lovely shots of Vivka Valentine will most certainly tide us over for now.


8. Bison (Street Fighter) – Vertvixen

We’ve got a huge Psycho Crush on this Bison cosplay! Vertvixen is a rising name in the cosplay world, known for her ambitious cosplay ideas and her expertise in 3D-printing props and armor. And while we are absolutely blown away by her genderbent versions of Arthas the Lich King from Warcraft and Garrison from Battle Chasers: Nightwar, we’re a sucker for the classics characters as well. Vertvixen’s brilliant interpretation of Bison, which is inspired in part by the design for Cammy, is one of her most iconic cosplays. Much like the original Bison, Vertvixen exudes authority and confidence, and we can’t help but fall at her feet in reverence. If you wanna see this Vixen at work, you can catch her streaming her creative process on Twitch. Follow along as she prints, shapes, primes, and paints her armor and props live, and see the magic for yourself.


7. Soldier 76 (Overwatch) – K8sarkissian

We’ve got her in our sights… and we’re not looking away any time soon! This sexy version of Soldier 76 comes courtesy of the lovely K8sarkissian, who also rocks a more battle-ready version of our beloved visor-wearing veteran. But battle-ready or not, K8sarkissian is a joy to behold, and her body of work continuously impresses. Other genderbent offerings from this blue-eyed beauty include Gladiolus from Final Fantasy XV, McCree from Overwatch, and even a bunny-suit version of Deadpool. She is also known for her creative interpretations of Pokemon in “gijinka” (humanized) form, and popular picks from her Poke-portfolio include Xerneas, Arcanine, and Squirtle. Whether it’s on Hanamura or lounging at home, this is one soldier that you’ll always want on your team.


6. Booker DeWitt (BioShock: Infinite) – Byndo Gehk

Classy? Deadly? Get you a girl that can do both! The self-proclaimed party queen known as Byndo Gehk brings a retro pin-up vibe to the 1900’s-era style of BioShock: Infinite‘s dimension-hopping bad boy, and it totally works! We can imagine her kicking back with a cigar and a glass of Scotch on the floating city of Colombia one moment, then tearing it up in the streets with the Vox Populi in the next. But no matter what costume Byndo is rocking, the word of the day is always “fun.” She brings that same fiery spirit to everything she creates, whether it’s summery Pokémon swimsuits or full-out showstoppers like Toothless (How to Train Your Dragon) and Fiora (League of Legends). Free-spirited, flirty, and just a tad bit fierce, Byndo is your quintessential rebel-next-door.


5. Yasuo (League Of Legends) – Mowky

Anyone who’s been grinding Ranked on League of Legends can tell you that among the scourges of Solo Queue, the sword-wielding wanderer Yasuo is the most feared and despised. Well, I don’t know about the rest of you, but if it’s Mowky who’s behind the sword and Wind Walls instead, I would be less eager to ban this champion from play. The German-based cosplayer turns this air-dancing assassin into a feast for the eyes, and brings a grace and allure that is sure to take your Last Breath away. But don’t be fooled, Mowky is far from a Yasuo one-trick, and even brings her skill and good looks to other League of Legends champions like Aurelion Sol and Jayce. This is one cosplay champion that doesn’t need a killing spree in order to be legendary.


4. Jecht (Final Fantasy X) – Lindsay Elyse

Forget the scruffy jerk that taunted you relentlessly in Final Fantasy X; this Jecht cosplay by Lindsay Elyse is truly the best. We have sung many praises to Lindsay’s talent as a creator and cosplayer in a previous article, but we really can’t say enough good things about this gamer goddess. Her version of Jecht reflects the same sense of passion and fun that is present in all of her cosplay work, and the fact that she can skillfully execute the portrayal an underrated character like Jecht only speaks to her creativity. The facial scars and body tattoos are a great touch, as is the inclusion of Jecht’s enormous Cloud-style sword. Let’s just hope she doesn’t yell at us for crying tears of joy over her awesomeness like the original Jecht would.


3. Rengar (League Of Legends) – Kinpatsu

“A true hunter never rests.” And neither does Kinpatsu! This creative soul from South Africa is a devoted and prolific crafter, and pulls off some of the most ambitious and insanely-detailed cosplays out there. Her most notable costumes include a number of League of Legends characters, such as Katarina, Jinx, Kindred, Kayle, Syndra, Dark Elementalist Lux, Xayah, and her famous take on Rengar, which is pictured above. Kinpatsu has also made waves in the cosplay world with her intense foam armor work, which can be seen on her Valeera Sanguinar and humanized Alexstrasza cosplays from World of Warcraft. What’s even more remarkable about Kinpatsu is her work ethic; she will often plan several new projects for a single convention and will even devote time during the events to perfect her creations. And as you can see, the beautiful end results speak for themselves.


2. Gnar (League Of Legends) – Jessica Nigri

Jessica Nigri is virtually a household name in the convention community, and it’s not hard to see why. This derp-tastic diva of cosplay continues to awe and enchant us with her cosplays, ranging from ridiculously complex and and laborious armor work to simple yet fun ensembles. Jessica’s version of Gnar falls in the latter category, and has become one of her most iconic cosplays due to its appealing and playful design. Retaining the “wildness” of League of Legends‘ most famous playful primordial Yordle, Jessica brings her trademark flair and sexy style to the table, making this an instant Nigri classic. Jessica can certainly turns heads with elaborate cosplays like her armored Deathwing from World of Warcraft and her original concept for an armored Princess Peach/Diablo III crusader mashup, but this is great example of how well-executed and well-designed concepts can make even simple cosplays really shine.


1. Spyro (Spyro The Dragon) – Danielle Beaulieu

Before we dive into how amazing this cosplay is, let me start by asking how many of you out there remember Spyro the Dragon? Oh there’s nothing wrong with well-known classics like Street Fighter and Super Mario, but leave it to Danielle Beaulieu to unearth an underrated hero like Spyro and bring him back to the forefront of video game fandom. This beautiful set of armor is truly an inspired piece, capturing aspects of both the eponymous purple protagonist and the world from which he comes. Spyro’s unique horn and crest design act as the main motif, while gems adorning the shoulders and shins invoke the gem collections of the original games. Even Spyro’s colorful companion Sparx gets shown some love, appearing as a design on the leg armor. This cosplay is a testament to Danielle’s intelligent and creative approach to crafting; it is a show of technical skill coupled with a deep and earnest understanding and love for the source material, and is very deserving of our top spot on this list.