Astana Comic Con 2024 Grand Prize Winner: Cosplay Contest
The Cosband Siberia team from Russia emerged as the champions at Comic-Con Astana 2024, taking home the Grand Prix of 3.6 million tenge (US$7,606) for their stunning portrayal of Valkyrie’s Rage Thanatos and Ares from the popular video game Smite. The event, which concluded on July 28, saw a total of 51 participants competing in the international cosplay competition with a prize fund of 12,000,000 tenge (US$25,354).
Among the distinguished cosplayers, Frau_Haku from Russia claimed the top spot and a prize of 1.7 million tenge ($3,591) for her portrayal of Shadowheart (Dark Justiciar armor) from the game “Baldur’s Gate 3.” The runner-up, Ran Hime from the Kyrgyz Republic, impressed the judges with her Clown Doll character by Sakizo Illustrator, earning 1.1 million tenge ($2,324). Sazura from St. Petersburg, Russia, secured the third position and received 800,000 tenge ($1,690) for her Karlach costume from “Baldur’s Gate 3.”
In addition to the main awards, the competition featured honors in 12 additional categories. Participants from various countries showcased their creativity and attention to detail, with standout performances from teams and individuals alike. Notable winners include a team from Astana for their Hell Marines costumes from “Helldivers 2,” DANIK from the capital for his Angel Sanguine Blade Guard costume from “Warhammer 40k,” and a team from Kostanai for their portrayal of the heirs family from the Disney musical.
Furthermore, special recognition was given to Tymancho from Ekibastuz, who served as the ambassador of Comic Con Astana 2024 with his impressive orc costume from the Warcraft movie. Zakos Crowman from Almaty was awarded a special partner nomination from Freedom Bank for his Jinx costume from the Arcane game. The event showcased talent from participants hailing from countries such as Russia, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Cyprus, highlighting the diverse and vibrant cosplay community present at the convention.
