How to create your own avatar in VRChat

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How to create your own avatar in VRChat

VRChat is a popular social VR platform where players can explore virtual worlds, meet new people, and express themselves through fully customizable avatars. Whether you're chatting with friends, attending virtual events, or role-playing in immersive environments, having your own unique avatar enhances the experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your own avatar, from selecting a model to uploading it into VRChat.

*Here’s a 6-minute video on the Basics of Creating a VRChat Avatar, providing a clear and concise overview of the entire process:

A step by step guide on how to create your own avatar in VRChat

1: Preparation

  1. Define Your Style and Requirements

    • Decide on the type of avatar you want (humanoid, animal, robotic, etc.).

    • Gather reference images or inspiration from platforms like Pinterest or ArtStation.

  2. Install Necessary Software

  3. Familiarize Yourself with VRChat Guidelines

    • Read the VRChat documentation to understand performance requirements (e.g., polygon count, material optimization).

2: Create or Obtain a 3D Model

Option A: Model from Scratch

  1. Use Blender to create your model:

    • Build a base humanoid model.

    • Design clothing, hair, and accessories.

    • Unwrap UVs and create textures (color, normal, metallic maps, etc.).

    • Export the model as FBX or VRM.

Option B: Use Pre-Made Models

  1. Download pre-made models:

    • Platforms: Booth.pm, Sketchfab, VRoid Hub etc.

    • Check Licensing: Ensure the model allows commercial use or modification.

    • Adjust the model’s scale and materials to meet VRChat requirements.

3: Set Up Your Unity Project

  1. Create a New Unity Project

    • Choose the 3D (URP) template (Universal Render Pipeline, suitable for PC).

    • Install the VRChat Creator Companion (simplifies dependency management).

  2. Import the VRChat SDK

    • In Unity, go to Assets > Import Package > Custom Package and import SDK3.

    • Log in to your VRChat account and authorize the SDK.

  3. Configure Project Settings

    • Go to File > Build Settings and switch the platform to PC/Mac.

    • In Player Settings, set the company name, icon, and enable Virtual Reality Supported (add Oculus/OpenXR).

4: Import and Configure the Model

  1. Import the Model into Unity

    • Drag and drop the FBX/VRM file into the Assets folder.

    • Check if materials are correctly assigned (re-link textures if missing).

  2. Configure the Avatar Rig

    • Right-click the model file and select Configure Avatar.

    • Ensure the bone mapping is correct (set Rig type to Humanoid).

    • Fix any errors (e.g., missing required bones).

  3. Add Dynamic Effects

    • Install Dynamic Bones or PhysBones (VRChat’s official physics system):

      • Add physics to hair, tails, or other flexible parts.

    • Add colliders to control the physics range.

5: Set Up Animations and Expressions

  1. Use Avatars 3.0 System

    • Add an Avatar Descriptor component to the model.

    • Configure Expression Parameters (define parameters like blinking, mouth movement).

    • Create an Expression Menu (UI control panel).

  2. Bind an Animator Controller

    • Create an Animator Controller and assign animation layers (gestures, sitting, etc.).

    • Use Playable Layers to manage base animations and custom actions.

  3. Test Animations

    • Enter Play Mode in Unity and use the VRChat SDK’s Local Test feature to verify animations.

6: Optimization

  1. Optimize Performance

    • Use the VRChat Performance Rank Tool to check your avatar’s rank (aim for ≥ "Good").

    • Merge materials, compress textures (recommended resolution ≤ 1024x1024).

    • Disable unnecessary particle effects or high-performance-cost components.

7: Upload to VRChat

  1. Build the Avatar

    • In Unity, go to VRChat SDK > Show Control Panel.

    • Click Build & Publish, fill in the name, description, and privacy settings.

    • Wait for the upload to complete (usually takes a few minutes).

  2. Test in VRChat

    • Launch VRChat, open the Menu > Avatars, and search for your avatar.

    • Verify all features (physics, expressions, gestures) work correctly.

8: Advanced Customization (Optional)

  • Custom Shaders: Use Shader Graph to create unique visual effects (e.g., glowing, transparent materials).

  • Additional Features: Add audio-reactive animations, particle effects, or interactive props.

Important Notes

  • Copyright Compliance: Avoid using unlicensed commercial models or music.

  • Community Resources: Check the VRChat official Discord or forums for plugins and tutorials (e.g., Modular Avatar, Gogo Loco).

By following these steps, you can create a unique and personalized avatar for VRChat!

Recommended tutorial videos:

1. Create a 3D Model:

2. Set Up the VRChat Avatar:

3. Upload a VRChat Avatar:

 

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