The buzz around Atomic Heart has spilled into cosplay circles online, with fans crafting images of ballerinas, famous cosplayers, and characters like Zina, Tereshkova, and Eleanor. Yet Nastya Volkova, known to her followers as Svizee, has earned the strongest attention. An interview was arranged to shed light on her rise and her craft.
Who is Svizee
Nastya stepped into the cosplay world with a steady stream of photo sets last year, earning praise for her interpretations of Lady Dimitrescu in a monochrome black dress, Bayonetta from Bayonetta I and III, and Tae Takemi from Persona 5. But it was her full character portrayal as the Ballerina from Atomic Heart that pushed her name into wider recognition.
The core appeal lies in this: Nastya was among the first to present a complete, high-quality cosplay for the Twins that felt fully canon. This isn’t about fan service but about a faithful, character-true rendition. Similar patterns have appeared before. In 2021, Alisa Arefieva introduced a comprehensive Alsina Dimitrescu image that sparked her popularity, a phenomenon we cover in a dedicated article.
For Nastya, the Ballerina cosplay turned into a pleasant surprise. To explore the details, a direct conversation with her was arranged.
Interview with the cosplayer
VGTtimes: How long have you been cosplaying, and what was your very first look?
Svizee: Cosplay has been part of me for many years. Professionally, though, about two years. The first project was Wonder Woman from DC, inspired by the original motifs. Looking back, the costume quality felt rough, but the enthusiasm was real, and it remains a cherished starting point.
VGTtimes: Which look was the most challenging or time-consuming to create?
Svizee: Bayonetta from the third game demanded the most effort. The numerous patterns, tiny details, and intricate guns required substantial time and resources. Still, the payoff was worth it because Bayonetta remains a favorite character.
VGTtimes: Do you pick characters because they are popular or because you personally connect with them?
Svizee: The personal connection matters most. Popularity can be a nice bonus, but the bond with the character is the driving force.
VGTtimes: What about Atomic Heart inspired you to cosplay the Twins?
Svizee: Having played the game, I loved the setting and the inspiration it offered. The Twins were a natural choice because they are vibrant and visually striking. There are other heroines I admire, yet the Twins stood out as a chance to translate their image as canonically as possible.
Did Nastya’s Twin Ballerina resonate with audiences?
VGTtimes: Your Ballerina cosplay spread widely. Why do you think that happened?
Svizee: It’s not about grand claims. The cosplay’s success surprised me as well. I think two things mattered: the Twins’ current popularity and the game’s atmosphere captured in the photos. A great costume helps, but conveying the spirit of the original game in each shot is key. The photographers helped recreate fight scenes and other moments from the game.
VGTtimes: Is there any plan for fan-oriented follow-ups to the Twins set?
Svizee: No. The costume is too elaborate for such casual shots, so there are no plans for simplified, fan-service images.
Cosplay compilations
VGTtimes: Have you received unusual requests since the Twins cosplay appeared online?
Svizee: Some fans asked for hotter poses or foot-focused shots, but those requests are typically declined. Festivals have invited me a few times, but the costume was designed for studio photography only and can be uncomfortable in other settings. The goal is to maintain quality and authenticity.
VGTtimes: What other visuals in your performance stand out?
Svizee: The Bayonettas remain strong, and there is anticipation for a Bayonetta II look. Lady Dimitrescu and Tae Takemi also rank highly among my most successful characters, aligning perfectly with my portrayal.
VGTtimes: Have you faced the rough side of popularity?
Svizee: There have been no major scandals. Like many cosplayers, she sometimes faces accusations of using Photoshop. The tool helps convey the game’s atmosphere and the ballerina’s image, though some individuals take issue with it. She focuses on improving rather than engaging with negativity.
VGTtimes: There is talk about a Boosty page with adult content. What do fans find there?
Svizee: The page hosts high-resolution photo sets and extra frames. Some images are not suitable for general sharing, usually 16+ content. There is no nudity, and such material is not part of her plans.
VGTtimes: How do family and friends view cosplay?
Svizee: Her mother supports her, while the rest of the family is largely unaware of her cosplay activities. Explaining it would be challenging, and the costs add up quickly.
VGTtimes: Will fans see you at live events?
Svizee: Recently, festival appearances paused for photocosplay work. This summer she hopes to attend a few events as Samara from Mass Effect. The Gemini costume is uncomfortable, and the face mask limits interaction. Still, she loves meeting fans and thrives on the energy they bring. Anyone who recognizes her will be welcomed warmly.
VGTtimes: Thanks for the interview.
In the role of Sergei Nechaev and Dante – Zektornis. Photographers – Miva and Sasha Mefetis.
The Twins wear deaf masks in the game. Is that cool or would it be better with open faces?
[VG Times] sources cited for reference