Fans of multiplayer games have no shortage of options nowadays, with plenty of PvE and PvP titles that span several genres available. Battle royale fans have games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, with both taking some very different approaches when it comes to their gameplay. Hero shooters continue to thrive thanks to games like Overwatch, while co-op titles like Borderlands 3 aim to satisfy those who like fighting alongside other players instead of against them. For those that want something more traditional, a new Call of Duty title releases yearly.
Despite all these multiplayer games offering unique gameplay experiences that help them stand apart, one thing they all share is a focus on cosmetics. Whether it be through Overwatch’s highlight intros or Fortnite’s playful pre-game lobbies, developers of multiplayer games are always giving players the opportunity to show off their fanciest skins. From fun crossovers to meaningful outfits that come with their own backstory, 2021 was packed with standout cosmetics for gamers to unlock or purchase. The best of the best can be seen below, listed in alphabetical order by game title.
Apex Legends - Valkyrie Birthright
Kicking off the list is an Apex Legends outfit for Valkyrie. The Birthright skin was part of a special launch bundle when the character made her debut in Season 9. The daughter of a Titan Pilot known as Viper, Valkyrie aimed to be just like her father. As such, it makes sense that she would don his helmet, which is exactly what the Birthright skin allows players to do. The red and yellow color scheme stands out, as does the intricate headgear worn by the Legend. A crest on the chest only adds to the look, as it makes it feel as if there is a legacy behind the inherited armor.
Borderlands 3 - Disciples of the Vault Moze
Borderlands 3’s second Season Pass offered two different skin packs. Each pack offered a unique skin and head for every Vault Hunter, with the Disciples of the Vault pack showing what the playable characters would look like if they joined the COV. While all four of the designs are memorable, it is Moze the Gunner that ultimately steals the show. Moze’s Disciples of the Vault outfit sees her helmet traded for a gas mask, with her hair turned into a massive mohawk. A large piece of armor resembling a psycho mask is seen on her shoulder, while the entire outfit looks thrown together like the usual bandit attire.
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War - Judge Dredd
Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War featured many memorable crossovers with various films. While gamers could play as John Rambo and John McClane from Die Hard, and Ghostface from Scream came equipped with many memorable voice lines, it is Judge Dredd that truly stole the show. The Law’s weapons and finishing move are perfectly fitting of the character and the universe he comes from, while his armor and helmet look exactly how players would expect. However, what sets Dredd apart is his alternate skin. Players can wear a version of the Dredd outfit that is cel-shaded and entirely black and white, perfectly capturing the feel of the comic books where the character originated.
Fall Guys - Doom Slayer
Fall Guys has had several video game crossovers this year, making it difficult to pick out just one. However, while the Kena and Sackboy skins are certainly charming, the Doom Slayer’s armor gives his cameo a bit of an edge. Being able to cover one of the adorable Fall Guys beans from head to toe in the always-intimidating Praetor Suit is likely not something players expected, but the result is a skin that perfectly combines cuteness and coolness. With the bean’s eyes just barely visible behind the visor, and the Slayer’s shoulder cannon in place, gamers can rip and tear their way to a victory crown.
Fortnite - Rick Sanchez
In 2021, Fortnite once again proved itself to be the king of crossovers, with dozens of Marvel heroes coming to The Island. However, while Spider-Man and his web shooters have certainly left their mark on Fortnite, it is Rick and Morty’s titular scientist that deserves the top spot. While Rick’s cel-shaded art style may put Fortnite players at a disadvantage, it also allows the character to stand out from the many other cosmetics that are available in the item shop. Epic Games managed to perfectly capture Rick’s unique expressions and personality, with emotes like the Rick Dance showing just how much care was put into the character model’s facial features. Given how much effort was put into making Rick look like he does in Rick and Morty, this Season 7 battle pass skin was easily one of the best of the year.
Halo Infinite - Fracture Tenrai Yoroi Samurai
The first run of Halo Infinite’s Fracture Tenrai event was heavily criticized, which is understandable given how it was structured. However, despite players having issues with the event itself, it is hard to argue against the idea that the Yoroi armor is incredibly cool. The sleek look sees players donning an armor set that clearly evokes Samurai themes, from the curved helmet to the long waist armor. With the event set to return several times in the future, players will be able to expand on the default armor set to make it look even more stylish - though even its default appearance is stunning.
Marvel’s Avengers - Capwolf
Marvel’s Avengers’ bread and butter has been MCU skins, as the outfits have proven to be incredibly popular since they were first added. However, it is this increased focus on MCU skins that makes the Capwolf costume so special. Added around the Halloween season, this comic book-inspired outfit is pulled from a story arc where Steve Rogers is transformed into a werewolf. While it is certainly a bit silly, nothing in the game is as unique as this outfit, as players get to control a werewolf version of the hero. With sharp claws, white fur, and a long snout, the skin is eye-catching to say the least.
Overwatch - Draugr Reinhardt
With Blizzard so focused on the development of Overwatch 2, the new content being added to the original game has been extremely limited. However, event cosmetics have been released at a regular rate, and they are just as special as ever. Halloween Terror 2021 saw a lot of neat skins, though Draugr Reinhardt was a particularly cool addition. Alongside blue skin and some glowing eyes, Reinhardt’s Norse-themed armor is striking. The German Tank boasts a neat horned helmet where one of the horns is broken, with a skull adorning his chest plate. A neat touch sees Rein’s teeth exposed, adding to the undead look, while the arrows sticking out of his body are another cool touch that drives home the theme.
Sackboy: A Big Adventure - Selene
Sackboy: A Big Adventure has gotten special cosmetics for every real-world holiday, and while these free additions are great, it is the outfits that celebrate other PlayStation exclusives that truly steal the show. While Abby and Ellie from The Last of Us 2 were welcome additions, Selene looks even better. The Returnal protagonist’s ASTRA suit looks great, with the glass visor allowing players to see Selene’s blonde hair and her different colored eyes. The yellow device coming off her helmet is a nice touch, too, showing that plenty of thought went into the design of this celebratory cosmetic.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Timeless River Sora
Rounding out the list is an instantly recognizable skin for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s final DLC fighter. Timeless River Sora transforms the long-requested Keyblade wielder into the black and white version seen in the Timeless River world from Kingdom Hearts 2. The level was modeled after Steamboat Willie, the Disney animation that proved crucial to the company’s early success. Aside from the full recolor for Sora, his face is reworked to fit better with the look of old cartoons. A great callback to the Kingdom Hearts franchise, this special attire shows just how much love was put into Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s Sora DLC.