A great game isn’t just about near-photorealistic graphics and flashy gameplay mechanics (indicated by the current state of AAA gaming); it’s also about the little things and details. Most of these are easily missed by the casual gamer, but they often influence the whole narrative, look, and feel of the game. This is perhaps best seen in From Software’s games and other Souls-like titles that spoon-feed their narrative and lore to players.
One of many aspects of what makes the game great and more immersive for players is the clothing of the characters and how well that clothing fits within the game’s setting. Unique costumes will always be more memorable for gamers, and they often end up becoming popular inspirations for beautiful cosplay creations among fans. Just like books, no games should be judged by their respective covers but by their contents, and character clothing and design make up a good chunk of it. So, we’re here to discuss some of the best video games for players who are in it just for the fashion.
Saints Row Series
One of the things the Saints Row series is known for, besides its over-the-top action and humor, is its approach to player customization — especially when it comes to character clothing. The first game, released in 2006, was relatively grounded when it came to aesthetics, focusing mostly on urban streetwear that reflected the gritty gang-centric theme of the game. Character customization was there, but it was very limited.
The 2008 sequel expanded the customization options by adding a wardrobe system that allowed players to mix and match different pieces of clothing to create unique styles. This is also the first game in which the Saints’ purple branding became more integral to character costumes. The third Saints Row game dove head first into the bizarre and comedic when it came to clothing, reflecting the shift from Saints’ street-level gang to a ludicrous crime empire.
Lies of P
If 2015’s Bloodborne and 2019’s Sekiro had a child, that child would be Lies of P: a souls-like that’s loosely based on The Adventures of Pinocchio that blends steampunk and Belle Epoque elements. The game doesn’t feature a traditional armor system like other games from the genre; instead, it relies on costumes that are purely cosmetical and don’t carry any stats like in more traditional roleplaying games.
The game starts with P dressed relatively simply, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation, highlighting his puppet origins. However, as the game progresses, players can unlock and equip various clothing sets, some of which feature intricate tailoring and luxurious fabrics, giving P a more noble appearance. Blue Blood’s Tailcoat, Red Fox’s Hunting Apparel, the Great Venigni’s Signature Coat, and White Lady’s Hunting Clothes are among undoubtedly the nicest costumes in the entire game.
Devil May Cry Series
The Devil May Cry gaming series — which is about to receive its anime adaptation from Netflix — is as much about stylish fashion as it is about stylish combat. Dante, the game’s protagonist, is nothing but stylish, and his wardrobe is the epitome of cool. Admittedly, his costumes do evolve over the course of the games, but the staples remain: red coat, leather, and an effortlessly rebellious vibe. Dante debuts with a striking red trench coat paired with a bare chest under a red harness and black leather pants. This look becomes the defining visual for the series.
In the fourth game, Dante sports a longer, more tailored red coat with intricate patterns, blending his rebellious nature with the sophistication that comes with age. The style doesn’t really change in the fifth game, but the leather coat begins showing signs of wear. Virgil’s wardrobe contrasts Dante’s style, emphasizing the twin’s elegance, discipline, and calculated demeanor, while Trish and Lady receive different costumes throughout the games that fit their femme fatale style.
Bayonetta
Bayonetta is a masterclass in high fashion blended with supernatural themes and combat-ready functionality. Bayonetta’s costumes emphasize elegance, sensuality, and power, as they’re the extension of her confidence and her identity as an Umbra Witch. For those who haven’t played the games, Bayonetta’s default outfit in the first game is made entirely of her magical hair.
Not to mention that she sports the best-looking set of high heels ever, with two guns strapped to Bayonetta’s high-heeled boots, which allows her to perform devastating attacks using her legs. This gives combat a rather unique feel that adheres well to the gaming series’ focus on stylish action. Bayonetta’s costume is often a favorite among cosplay fans.
The Witcher 3
Witcher 3 is among the most aesthetically pleasing games on the current market and features some great character costumes. While Geralt’s outfits are cool and have different stats, the female characters in the game sport some really interesting clothing. Geralt’s own armor sets inspire Ciri’s classical look, but it’s more balanced out with subtle royal undertones, while Triss’ attire features warmer tones, such as deep red and green, which symbolize her nurturing and approachable nature.
The biggest stand-out here is Yennefer’s costumes; her sleek and stylish black-and-white outfits often emphasize her refined and straightforward personality. One of the best costumes is the fur-lined jacket over a corset and leather trousers, which are both aesthetically pleasing and quite functional.
Honorable Mention: Aveline de Grandpré
Assassin’s Creed III: Liberation, which is currently only available through Steam, has one of the most unique wardrobe systems in the entire franchise. Aveline’s clothing is a part of the game’s Persona system, which allows Aveline to blend into various social environments by adopting three different roles: Assassin, Lady, and Slave. Each of these has its own costumes and gameplay perks, encouraging players to adapt to different situations in the game more creatively. Though the game didn’t fare very well among fans, Aveline’s costumes were praised for their innovation.
Final Thoughts
Though an aesthetic afterthought for many, video game fashion is a cornerstone of immersive storytelling and gaming experiences. And for gaming audiences who appreciate the attention to detail woven into every piece of clothing in games, the aforementioned titles prove that fashion in games isn’t just bonus content; it’s also a key part of adventure.