Total Score: A scale of 200 points (100 for Costume Judging and 100 for Stage Performance Judging).

Average Score Calculation: The average score is determined by excluding the highest and lowest jury scores. The final classification is based on the combined score.

Tie Resolution: In the event of a tie, rankings are determined at the discretion of the stage judges during the judges deliberations process. 

Points are awarded according to the following three criteria related to the production of the constituent elements that express the character (costumes, hand props, makeup, etc.):

Differences in race, gender, or size of the cosplayers with respect to the original characters will not influence the judging of the degree of completeness of the costume itself.

Level of Precision in Costumes (40 Points)
Costumes are evaluated by comparing the actual costumes with the design of the costumes in the original work.

• If the actual costumes are completely identical to the costumes in the original work, full points are awarded. If completely different, the lowest score of 0 points is given.

   

• In cases where there are unknown elements in a costume from the original work, as long as the costume remains true to the spirit of the character and the atmosphere of the original work, design construction and color choices are left to the cosplayer’s discretion. Differences from the submitted image of the costume in the original work will not affect the score. (e.g., in black-and-white manga, the correct costume color may not be known).
  

Costume Quality (40 points)

The costumes are assessed based on various factors, including the harmony of their design, how well the costume complements the contestant’s appearance, and the craftsmanship quality, such as the precision of painting, sewing, and overall finish.

Technique (20 Points)
Costume-making skills are evaluated.

• • Costumes created using a variety of challenging techniques are scored more highly than those relying on basic skills.

     

  • These criteria focus on the level of quality rather than the number of techniques employed. Special techniques or gimmicks that change the appearance or structure of the costume are also evaluated.

Points are awarded for on-stage performance according to the following four criteria:

1. Performance (50 Points)
   • Evaluates aspects such as the quality and accomplishment of the performance, storytelling, prop usage, adherence to the original work, and overall entertainment value.
2. Acting & Stage Proficiency (20 Points)
   • Focuses on expressiveness on stage, including aspects such as singing, dancing, or other active elements. It also considers how well-rehearsed performers appear, their expressiveness in scenes with little or no action, and their delivery of dialogue.
3. Costume Stage Presence (20 Points)
   • Evaluates the visual impact of costumes on stage, including the impression they create upon first appearance. The use of gimmicks to change the appearance or structure of the costumes during the performance is also considered.
4. X-Factor (10 Points)
   • Additional points for exceeding expectations, particularly moving or exciting moments, or innovative ideas not seen before in the competition.

1. Judges evaluate the excellence of the representative cosplayers’ handmade costume creation, design, and overall atmosphere. A score is assigned out of 50 points (half of the full score).

    

2. Judging considers all elements of the character presented for evaluation, including costumes, makeup, wigs, and hand props.

    

3. Judging is carried out through a costume report written in Japanese or English, accompanied by a presentation (5–8 minutes) explaining the costume construction. Video materials may also be used.

    

4. The costume judging panel consists of 6-8 or more members from past alumni, WCS JP Affilated persons or approved industry experts vetted by observers excluding the WCS Secretariat.

    

5. Judges cannot evaluate representatives that has been a partner in previous WCS (MY) championship. Observers whose primary role is compliance and not judging decisions may participate.

    

6. Judging includes:
   • Presentation (8 minutes): The team explains the costume’s features, quality, precision, and applied techniques using costume report photos.
   • Q&A (2 minutes): Judges ask questions about the presentation or costume report.
   • Hands-On Check (5 minutes): Judges examine costumes up close.
7. Judging order is pre-determined and can only be changed for health or emergency reasons.

    

8. Late Submission Penalty:
   • A 10% score deduction applies for every 24-hour delay past the submission deadline. After 120 hours, a score of 0 is awarded.
   • Resubmissions for corrected documents must be returned within 24 hours to avoid further deductions.
9. The Observer members must be present at the costume judging site.
    

1. Judges evaluate staging, expressiveness, creativity, and entertainment through a maximum 2:30-minute performance.

   Time Limit Penalties:

   • Less than 10 seconds over: 10% deduction.
   • 10 seconds or more: 25% deduction.
2. Contestants must leave the stage promptly after their performance. Actions that dirty or damage the stage are prohibited. Props left on stage will be collected by staff, with no liability for damage. 
3. Performances have a 40-second changeover time for stage props.
4. Only the two representatives may participate in the performance; no external assistance is allowed. 
5. Performance order is decided by the organizer and cannot be changed except for health reasons.

• Handmade requirement: Must be at least 75% of total costume.
• Store-bought or commissioned costumes are not allowed.
• Must allow safe, free movement; avoid bulky or hazardous designs.
• Any assistance or collaboration must be declared (≤25%).
• Logos, AI, or official illustrations from WCS or any other IPs are prohibited unless given permission or license of use.
• Total Weight of Costume, wig, & hand props: 40kg max
• Stage Props:
  – Max 3 items
  – Weight: 10kg Max each prop
  – Height: 210 cm Max each prop
  – Width: 210 cm Max each prop
  – Depth: 90cm Max each prop
• Metal, sharp edges, or projectiles are prohibited.
• Only non-hazardous materials are allowed.
• Use of AI-generated materials is strictly prohibited.
• Forbidden materials:
  powder, smoke, water, small confetti, or open flame.
• Large confetti (≥2 cm) may be used (max 100 pieces).
• No external power; only battery-operated effects allowed.
• Pre-approval required for special effects, lasers, or strong light sources.
• 3D Printing:
  – Must detail creation, modification, and finishing steps in WIP.
  – Purchased or downloaded files require credit to original creator.
  – Items with <50% alteration are not judged.

1. Must be copyright-free or self-produced.
2. Video can be in Japanese or English language.
3. Dubbing in unrecognizable Japanese will be rejected.
4. English subtitles required for all dialogue.
5. Video format: 1080p (1920×1080), 16:9, MP4/MOV, ≥192 kbps stereo.
6. Copyrighted audio/dialogue/logos require official license or written permission.

1. Prop and Weapon Inspection 

• Props and weapons must be of a reasonable size and weight to ensure ease of handling and maneuverability on and off the stage.
• Excessively large or heavy props may be subject to additional scrutiny.

3. Materials

• Props and weapons must be constructed from lightweight and non-hazardous materials.
• Metal props, sharp edges, or any material that may pose a risk to participants, audience members, or event staff are strictly prohibited.

4. Blunt and Non-Functional Edges

• Edges of weapons and props should be blunt and non-functional to prevent accidental injuries.
• Any sharp or pointed edges must be dulled or capped to minimize the risk of harm.

5. No Live Ammunition

• The use of special effects, pyrotechnics, or any explosive devices must be pre-approved by the event organizers.
• Safety measures and precautions, including the presence of a licensed technician, are mandatory for any approved effects.

9. Reporting of Concerns

• Any violation of the Weapons Policy may result in immediate disqualification from the competition.
• Disqualified participants may face additional consequences as deemed necessary by event organizers.

11. Event Organizer Discretion