#Japan #Tokyo #Animation #Live2D #Creative Awards

2025 Live2D Creative Awards Contest

The annual 2025 Live2D Creative Awards is now open for entries from June 2 to September 30, 2025. This contest, organized by Live2D Inc., aims to celebrate the creativity and technical skill of artists who utilize the innovative Live2D technology, remarkable for transforming 2D illustrations into three-dimensional animations.

What is Live2D?

Live2D is a groundbreaking Japanese technology allowing creators to animate 2D illustrations with depth, making them come alive in new and engaging ways. Its applications are vast, spanning interactive games, captivating videos, engaging characters, and intuitive interfaces. The technology has made a significant impact across Japan, the United States, and Asia, powering numerous successful video games and even giving rise to popular Virtual YouTubers (VTubers).

By entering the Live2D Creative Awards, participants can push the boundaries of their technical capabilities and explore new creative horizons. Whether through animation, game design, or character development, all original works using Live2D are welcome.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

In 2025, the contest recognizes the importance of nurturing future talent by expanding the student award category. This initiative aims to inspire and encourage young creators and provide them with more opportunities to shine. Prizes will be awarded not only to professionals but also to university, vocational, and high school students, fostering the next generation of artists in the Live2D community.

Award Categories

Participants are invited to compete in various categories, such as:

• - Grand Prize: 1 winner receives 300,000 JPY and a trophy for the most outstanding Live2D work.
• - Visual Expression Award: 1 winner, with a prize of 100,000 JPY and a trophy, for excellence in animation and innovative expression techniques.
• - Interactive Works Award (Game/App): 1 winner, receiving 100,000 JPY and a trophy, for projects that enhance user interaction.
• - Interactive Works Award (AI/Conversational Interface): 1 winner, earning 100,000 JPY and a trophy, for works showcasing Live2D's potential in AI interfaces.
• - Live2D Model Award: 1 winner, who receives 100,000 JPY and a trophy, focusing on superior design and motion capabilities.
• - Special Award: 1 winner, with a prize of 100,000 JPY and a trophy, for any excellent work made with Live2D.
• - Student Awards: Up to 6 winners across college, vocational, and high school categories, each receiving 50,000 JPY and a trophy.
• - Creator's Inspiration Award: 1-3 works selected by creators as the most inspiring from the Live2D titles.

How to Enter

To participate, contestants must upload their created works on platforms like YouTube, X, or bilibili, and complete the entry form provided on the contest's dedicated website. Detailed entry guidelines and eligibility criteria can be found on the official website.

Judging Criteria

Entries will be evaluated based on:

• - The ability to express the features and potential of Live2D and 2D artwork.
• - The quality level of Live2D animation.

Announcement of Winners

The results will be announced at the alive venue in December 2025, showcasing the talented finalists and honoring their achievements.

About Live2D Inc.

As a company, Live2D Inc. has expanded its operations to include software licenses for Live2D Cubism, a creative studio specializing in the production of Live2D content, and an official marketplace called nizima for buying and selling Live2D models. The company continues to explore new frontiers in animation and illustration through innovative products and services.

For more information about the 2025 Live2D Creative Awards and to see past winners, visit the official website and join the celebration of creativity and innovation in the Live2D community.