Well, it's that time of year again. Time for BlizzCon -- the annual gathering in Anaheim, California, where fans celebrate the massively successful WarCraft, StarCraft, and Diablo franchises created by Blizzard Entertainment. And BlizzCon means costumes. Our intrepid photographer has captured snapshots of the wildest and winningest costumes to grace the Anaheim event this year.
This blade-wielding blood elf sports a costume inspired by the artwork of Wei Wang from the Blizzard Art Gallery.
Meet Maiev Shadowsong, one of the Warcraft universe's true keister-kickers. You don't want to know what she can do with that hoop.
This jaw-dropping costume represents the Adjutant, an android AI aiding Terran commanders in the Starcraft series. If you ever played the game you may recall her eerily calm voice saying things like 'nuclear launch detected.'
These goblin pals know the importance of stylish eyewear in completing an ensemble.
Some WarCraft adventurers, like this musical Blood Elf, enjoy rocking out as much as dungeoneering.
Here's a little mixed-game cosplay. On the left is a Barbarian from Blizzard's upcoming action-RPG 'Diablo III.' On the right, a Blood Elf Hunter from 'World of Warcraft.' They make a striking pair, so we'll allow it.
Meet the Demon Hunter from the upcoming 'Diablo III.' Dunno about you, but if we were demons we'd be suitably intimidated.
It's not all warriors and mages here at Blizzcon. This cosplayer has elected to portray Scooter the Snail, one of many lovable vanity pets available in World of Warcraft.
This Human Priest, wearing coveted Tier 5 robes, clearly believes that reading is fundamental.
This is Sylvanas Windrunner. Her full title is actually The Dark Lady, Queen of the Forsaken, Mistress Sylvanas of the Banshee. Yeah, you probably don't want to mess with her.
Here's a different take on Sylvanas Windrunner, portrayed by another fan.
We like this Troll Death Knight costume, but honestly, that sword is a little on the small side. Doesn't seem realistic.
This lady looks to be a Goblin Warrior, loaded for bear.
Arthas, one of the most feared villains in the Warcraft Universe. He's a guy, but portrayed here by a female fan. We buy it.
This is a Worgen Druid. Worgen are a playable werewolf race in World of Warcraft. Don't worry, this one won't eat you if you give it a treat.
Ysera, the Green Dragon Aspect, watches over Azeroth in 'World of Warcraft.' She's one of the good guys.
And here's Ysera again, as portrayed by a different fan in the outfit she wore in the 'Cataclysm' expansion. Which do you prefer?
This paladin, wielding the legendary sword Ashbringer, scored Second Place in the costume contest. What does Ashbringer do? Well, it brings ash, obviously.
The Starcraft Adjutant presenting her amazing costume onstage, where she took First Prize in the Costume Contest. Well-earned, to be sure.
