Deep in the Hyrule kingdom, a brave knight faces the trials and tribulations that plague the citizens. Equipped with a sword and shield, Link vowed to protect his princess, his kingdom, and himself against those who try to destroy the peace. Through These trials, Link became a symbol across the land, inspiring those who played the games.
One fan, NotQuiteIcarus, took to this character like fire to wood and brought Link to life. NotQuiteIcarus explores this brave character exquisitely with his Knight Link cosplay. This cosplay combines classic Hyrulian elements with more typical medieval styles. The weathered effect on the design makes it look as if the metal is well worn from many battles, immersing the viewer into the world that he is deciding to create.
The attention to detail that he poured into this project easily shines through and the amount of passion he had is quite obvious. From the gauntlets, cuisses, cauldrons, chain mail, and the breastplate to the gloves, surcoat, belts, gambeson, and greaves, each part was carefully crafted to evoke a sense of realism in the traditionally cartoon character. The pieces were made to look worn which adds depth to the appearance of a solider who went through many frivolous battles.
Layering is another part of the design that this cosplayer put attention into. The top part of the costume is composed of three layers, including a blue long sleeve shirt, a white cloth with the iconic Hylian crest on it, and, most notably, the armor. NotQuiteIcarus chose fabrics and accessories that would add depth and authenticity to the costume, making this cosplay not only recognizable, but also taking the viewers into the world of Zelda.
NotQuiteIcarus values the craftsmanship aspect of cosplay as displayed. In fact, it was apart of the reason that he started cosplaying Link in the first place. When I reached out to him, he detailed, “I like to try to really bring him and Hyrule to life through my cosplay, and emulate his character in or out of costume.” NotQuiteIcarus shows a sense of dedication to Link’s character, and he uses his skills to make that possible. Even so far as becoming an award winning cosplay maker.
Another aspect of this character was how he could connect to Link. NotQuiteIcarus has explained this in interviews and when I reached out by saying, “I decided to cosplay Link for the first time because I saw myself in him and could relate to his character arc and his struggles.” He details his story of basically becoming Link in a way. His emotional attachment to the character has altered the way he portrayed the character, from just a costume to being more like every day clothes.
NotQuiteIcarus hasn’t gone under the radar with this either. Fans and other cosplayers alike admire his different forms of Link, rightfully earning him over 50 000 followers on Instagram. He has also taken the Hyrule warrior to different conventions, including Kami Con, Georgia Pop, and Horror Con. Not only that, he has also made an appearance on a podcast called the “Razzle Dazzle Show”. His cosplays have even inspired others to start cosplaying Link, or just start trying cosplaying in general.
However, the journey with Link is far from over. Now, with the release of Echos of Wisdom, fans are flocking to find content about the noble knight and his adventures, anxious to see if NotQuiteIcarus will portray the newest version of Link.
NotQuiteIcarus demonstrates what it means to be a cosplayer. To enjoy a character, a show, a design, the art, but most importantly, the fun of it. There is no doubt as to why NotQuiteIcarus has been such an influential cosplayer in the community. His craftsmanship, his commitment, his dedication are all testaments to not only his cosplays, but to him as a person.
