ALMATY, KAZAKHSTAN – A burgeoning geek culture scene is taking root in Kazakhstan, with cosplay enthusiasts investing significant time and resources into increasingly elaborate costumes and character portrayals.Recent festivals showcase a growing community finding connection and creative outlet through immersive fandom, a phenomenon previously uncommon in Central asia.
The rising popularity of these events provides a space for like-minded individuals to connect,overcome social anxieties,and even pursue professional recognition. While Western comic-cons have a decades-long history,geek festivals are a relatively new advancement in Kazakhstan,filling a void for fans of TV series,films,comics,and games.
Craftsmen like Arseny demonstrate the dedication involved, creating highly detailed costumes using repurposed and found materials. “I have been making it for quite a long time in my free time,” Arseny explained, describing his Fallout-inspired traveler costume. “I use a direction in cosplay called prop-making, when real things are used. For example, a revolver is made of metal… It is tough to calculate the cost in money, because throughout my life I look for these things, collect them in my warehouse and then assemble something from them.”
The appeal extends beyond individual creativity. YouTube blogger Evgeniy, a veteran of Russian “Igromir” festivals, expressed his enthusiasm for the emerging Kazakhstani scene. “I love popular culture festivals… When they offer me a geek festival in another country, I immediately lose my temper,” he said. “I feel at home here.” He highlighted the rapid development of the festivals, noting their recent absence from the Central Asian region. “Its very good that it came here and is developing very quickly.”
