Video Game Fashion: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Posted by Rachel BurgerVideo game fashion is normally boiled down to geek chic; retro ties, Super Mario earrings, and dice-like accessories. Each article of clothing is like a declaration of loyalty to games and gaming culture, a symbol of nerdery. Clothes that real people wear propel gaming culture forward through acceptance and in-jokes. Some out-of-game fashion is great and others are downright embarrassing.
And let’s not forget about cosplay!
There is another way to look at clothing and games: in-game fashion – what attire video game characters wear. Style and games can go together… though it might not always be practical.
How should video game fashion be judged? Firstly, it depends on the time and place that the game is set in; as we move through different eras in many of the earlier Civilization games, leaders changed their outfits because fashion was changing as well.
In the same vein, clothing should also help characters with their quest; I can’t imagine the armor from Gears of War is much suited to do anything but look heavy and bulky. On the same note, I have difficulty believing that “armor” that is merely a bra stands any chance against any sort of attack (see the female elves from World of Warcraft and Morrigan from Dragon Age: Origins).
Finally, the clothes should bring edge and appeal to the character. Despite what your mother taught you, people are always judging a book by its cover; the clothes that characters wear actually affects how we view and treat them.
Without further ado, the good, the bad, and the ugly fashion of video games:
The Good
Faith from Mirror’s Edge
- Clothing is believable and could be worn in real life
– Excellent red accents
– Perfect canary yellow accessory
– Clothing does not hinder asskickery
Jackie Estacado from The Darkness
- Gothic look accents the dark game
– Draping, torn cape has excellent rugged appeal
– Cape does not hinder asskickery
The Bad
Miranda from Mass Effect 2
- Tight clothing accents Miranda’s curves
– Creates a chronic camel toe
– High boots and tightness would hinder running in real life
Terry Bogarnd from Fatal Fury
- Pokémon-like hat does little to add to the outfit
– High-waisted belt makes Terry look like he has an hourglass figure
– Little novelty
– Clothing does not hinder asskickery
The Ugly
Vaan from Final Fantasy XII
- Heavy armor on the legs and wrists limit mobility
– Belts hold his torso together
– No armor (or clothing) protecting torso
– Vest is falling apart
Isabella Valentine (Ivy) from Soul Caliber IV
- Ivy is held together by belts
– Anything could pop out at any second
– Heels limit asskickery
– Armor only protects arms
Has a character’s fashion ever connected–or disconnected–you from a character? Who is video game’s best dressed? Worst? Does video game fashion matter? Let us know in the comments!
