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March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Agenda

Cosplay and Character Design: Building Costumes that Transcend the Screen

Kate Edwards  (CEO/CXO & Cofounder, Geogrify/SetJetters)
Claire Hummel  (Art Director, Independent)
Location: International Stage, South Hall
Date: Thursday, March 12
Time: 4:40 pm - 5:40 pm
Pass Type: Festival Pass, Game Changer Pass - Get your pass now!
Audience Level: All
Track: Design
Format: Fireside Chat
Vault Recording: Not Recorded
Audience Level: All

Costume design in games is more than just an aesthetic choice — it’s an opportunity to inspire players in a way that lives on far beyond the screen. In this fireside chat, industry leaders (and cosplay enthusiasts) Kate Edwards (CEO/CXO & Cofounder, Geogrify/SetJetters) and Claire Hummel (Art Director, Independent) will explore how thoughtfully crafted costumes can become cultural touchstones, spark creativity in the cosplay community, and deepen player engagement.

Through personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, these industry leaders will share insights on topics like intentionally designing costumes that are not only visually striking but also practical for cosplayers to recreate, while considering cultural authenticity, storytelling, and player expression. The discussion will also highlight how game-inspired fashion transcends the digital realm, influencing real-world trends, conventions, and fan communities. Whether you’re designing for fantasy worlds, sci-fi epics, or modern settings, this session will provide actionable insights into creating costumes that resonate with players and inspire a global movement.

Takeaway

Attendees will walk away with exciting strategies for designing game costumes that captivate players both on-screen and off. Discover how to create visually stunning designs that cosplayers can actually bring to life, while honoring cultural authenticity and deepening emotional connections with your audience. Plus, learn proven techniques for crafting characters that spark creativity and build lasting communities around your games.

Intended Audience

Character artists, concept designers, and art directors seeking to create impactful, cosplay-friendly character designs. Also valuable for narrative designers, community managers, cosplayers, and anyone involved in gaming culture and conventions.