The best video game makeup looks to copy right now Take your makeup to the next level with Lara Croft, Bayonetta, and Ciri

Have you ever been jealous of a video game character? I certainly have. And no, I’m not talking about being able to choose whether to date my washing machine or my refrigerator (Date Everything is hilarious, trust me), nor about swinging a giant Daedric war hammer to blow off steam after a long day (Skyrim is still as relevant as ever, even though it was released nearly fifteen years ago). Sometimes I look at video game heroines and think: I’d love to slay monsters, explore ancient temples, and, why not?, save the world while keeping my makeup flawless the entire time. After all, makeup and video games aren’t worlds apart. In fact, Ms. Pac-Man was literally given makeup to distinguish her from her male counterpart. When she debuted in arcades in 1982, the iconic yellow circle featured bright red lipstick, long eyelashes, a beauty mark, and an oversized bow. Many games aimed at young girls, the so-called Pink Games, have traditionally revolved around dress-up games and makeover games, proving that beauty has always had a place in gaming. Today, however, video game makeup is much more than a visual identifier or gameplay mechanic: it has become an art form and a defining part of a character’s identity. Here are three iconic gaming makeup looks inspired by some of the most recognizable heroines in gaming.

Three video game makeup looks to recreate

Brown lipstick and black eyeliner – Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)

Although today’s Lara Croft is portrayed with a much more realistic, almost makeup-free appearance, anyone who played the original Tomb Raider games (the first was released in 1996) will instantly remember the archaeologist’s unmistakable look. The Angelina Jolie films helped cement it in pop culture, although Jolie wore those unforgettable greige lips that I still dream about today, probably achieved with MAC's Folio lipstick. Aside from Lara’s famously polygonal proportions, one feature stood out above everything else: her brown lipstick. Depending on the game, the shade ranged from rich and opaque to softer and sheerer, but it always complemented the character perfectly. The look was completed with a subtle line of black eyeliner applied to the waterline and softly blended beneath the lower lashes, creating a slightly grunge yet timeless effect. To recreate this Lara Croft makeup look, pair KIKO's Smart Fusion Lip Pencil 36 with the Smart Fusion Lipstick 436. If, like Lara, you want your lipstick to survive long adventures without constant touch-ups, Veralab's Kiss Code Liquid Lipstick in Spiced Brown is an excellent long-lasting alternative.

Bold eye makeup with glasses – Bayonetta

Witches are back, and Bayonetta, the last Umbra Witch, remains one of gaming’s greatest beauty icons. Her signature combination of statement glasses and dramatic eye makeup has become instantly recognizable. In the first two games she wore shades of purple and grey, while the third installment embraced brighter pinks and fuchsias. It’s no surprise that social media is filled with tutorials recreating this iconic Bayonetta makeup. Start by applying an eyeshadow primer, or simply dab a little concealer over your lids to create an even, tacky base. Sweep a nude eyeshadow across the lid before gradually layering transition shades and deeper colors to intensify the eyes. For the lips, a simple clear gloss perfectly balances the dramatic eye look. For the eyes, Natasha Denona's Retro Palette is an excellent choice. If you prefer cream formulas, Smashbox's Always On Eye Shadow Stick in Big Flirt works beautifully. Finish with Essence Hydra Kiss Lip Oil in Classy Glassy for a glossy finish. If you'd rather recreate Bayonetta's nostalgic '90s-inspired mauve lips, pair Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick in Pink Frosting or Heather Shimmer with a nude lip liner.

Smokey eye and nude lips – Ciri (The Witcher IV)

Many people already know Ciri (Princess Cirilla of Cintra) thanks to Netflix's The Witcher. In the upcoming The Witcher IV, she'll officially take over from Geralt of Rivia as the series' protagonist, appearing far more mature than the young woman we met in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Even in that game, though, her signature black smokey eye beautifully highlighted her striking green eyes. To recreate this Ciri makeup look, use a matte black eyeshadow paired with either dark grey or deep brown, depending on whether you prefer a cooler or warmer finish. An even easier option is applying a creamy black eyeshadow stick along both the upper and lower lash lines before blending it with a small flat brush. (I'll admit, I sometimes blend with my fingers. No judgment here.) Ciri's lips are naturally understated, with only a subtle hint of pink. A tinted lip balm works perfectly, such as Burt's Bees Rose Tinted Lip Balm (Yes, the same one as Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights), or, if you're looking for a timeless cult favorite, Clinique's Almost Lipstick in Black Honey.

Ultimately, beyond their makeup looks, these heroines remain some of the most iconic characters in video game history. Their signature beauty styles continue to inspire gaming makeup, cosplay makeup, and everyday beauty enthusiasts alike, proving that sometimes the best makeup inspiration comes straight from the worlds we love to play.