Bring Your Avatars to Life in Unity with UniVRM
UniVRM is a Unity plugin to easily import, edit, and animate VRM models for games, VR, and VTubing.
About UniVRM
UniVRM is a free and open-source plugin made for Unity that allows users to easily import, edit, and export 3D avatars using the VRM file format. VRM is a format built on the glTF standard and is popular for creating lifelike, expressive humanoid characters used in virtual reality, augmented reality, games, and live streaming.
This plugin simplifies the entire process of integrating these avatars into Unity projects. With features like automatic bone mapping, facial expression controls, and physics for hair and accessories, UniVRM helps developers and content creators add high-quality, animated characters to their applications with minimal setup.
Key-Features
Import & Export VRM Models
Easily load .vrm files into Unity and export them back after editing.
VRM 0.x and 1.0 Compatibility
Supports both older and latest versions of the VRM format.
Editor & Runtime Support
Use VRM models inside Unity Editor or during game runtime.
Blendshapes & Facial Animations
Animate face, lips, and expressions using blendshapes.
Spring Bone Physics
Makes hair, clothing, and accessories move naturally.
First-Person & Eye Tracking Settings
Customize first-person view and control where the avatar looks.
Installation Guide
This section is designed to help new users set up UniVRM step-by-step within Unity. It ensures a smooth and error-free installation process for beginners and developers alike.
System Requirements
- Outlines the minimum Unity version, supported platforms (Windows, macOS), and any additional dependencies required for UniVRM to function properly.
Download & Import in Unity
- Provides clear instructions on how to download the UniVRM plugin from the official source and import it into a Unity project using the Unity Package Manager or manual import.
How to Use
Adding SpringBone Physics
- A walkthrough on applying SpringBone components to parts of the avatar like hair, accessories, or clothing to simulate realistic physics-based motion.
How to Add a VRM Model to Unity
- A detailed guide on importing VRM files into the Unity Editor. It covers how to properly set up the model within your Unity scene, including configuring basic settings and positioning.
How to Animate Facial Expressions
- Instructions on how to control and animate facial expressions using BlendShapes. This is especially useful for VTubers and developers creating expressive avatars.
Unity Integration Tips
- Expert advice and best practices for integrating UniVRM models smoothly into existing Unity projects. This may include performance tips, compatibility notes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is UniVRM?
UniVRM is a Unity plugin that allows you to import, export, and customize VRM-format 3D avatars inside Unity.
Who should use UniVRM?
It is ideal for VTubers, Unity developers, 3D artists, and anyone working with humanoid avatars in VR/AR environments.
Is UniVRM free to use?
Yes, UniVRM is open-source and distributed under the MIT license.
Which version of Unity is supported?
UniVRM typically supports Unity 2019.4 and above. Always check the latest compatibility on the official GitHub page.
Can I use UniVRM for commercial projects?
Yes, you can use UniVRM in commercial projects, but ensure you follow any license or copyright rules associated with specific VRM models.
How do I install UniVRM in Unity?
Download the UniVRM .unitypackage file and import it into your Unity project via Assets > Import Package > Custom Package.
Do I need to install any dependencies?
No external dependencies are required beyond Unity itself.
How do I update to the latest version of UniVRM?
Remove the old UniVRM folder from your project and import the latest version of the package.
Can I use UniVRM with Unity Hub or Unity Package Manager?
Currently, UniVRM is not available through Unity’s Package Manager. Use the .unitypackage instead.
Is there a quick-start setup guide?
Yes, a step-by-step installation guide is usually included in the documentation or on the official GitHub repository.
What is automatic humanoid bone mapping?
UniVRM auto-detects the skeleton of your model and maps bones to Unity’s humanoid rig, reducing manual setup.
What are SpringBones?
SpringBones are used to simulate soft-body movement for hair, accessories, or clothes.
Does UniVRM support physics simulations?
Yes, it supports SpringBone physics for natural movement of parts like hair and clothing.
Can I assign custom shaders?
Yes, but VRM has shader restrictions for compatibility. Use supported shaders or adjust materials carefully.
How do I handle texture or material errors?
Ensure texture paths are correct, and consider re-assigning materials manually if issues occur after import.
Can I use UniVRM models in VRChat?
No, VRChat uses a different format (VRChat Avatar SDK). You’ll need to convert the model.
Is UniVRM compatible with WebGL?
Not directly. You’ll need to optimize the avatar and manually manage shader compatibility for WebGL export.
Can I animate VRM models inside Unity?
Yes, you can use Unity’s Animator and Timeline systems to animate the model just like any other humanoid character.
Does UniVRM support AR/VR integration?
Yes, VRM avatars can be integrated into Unity-based AR/VR projects with proper setup.
Can I use UniVRM with game engines other than Unity?
UniVRM is specifically designed for Unity. Other engines will require manual VRM format parsing.
My model is not visible after import — what should I do?
Check if the model’s scale is too small or if any materials/shaders failed to load. Reset transform values if needed.
Facial expressions are not working. Why?
Ensure the imported VRM file includes BlendShape clips, and check the expression settings in Unity.
Hair or accessories are not moving properly. What’s wrong?
Verify that SpringBones are set up correctly and that related transforms have not been broken during editing.
Where can I get support or report issues?
You can raise issues or questions on the UniVRM GitHub page or join related community channels.
Is there an official user manual or documentation?
Yes, detailed documentation is available on the official GitHub or VRM.dev website, covering all usage aspects.
Schema
UniVRM - VRM & glTF 3D Avatar Tool for Unity
UniVRM - Import, export, and migrate VRM and glTF 2.0 3D avatars in Unity. Supports VRM 1.0, VRM 0.x, async import, and multiple platforms. #UniVRM
Price: Free
Price Currency: $
Operating System: Windows, macOS, and Linux
Application Category: Software
4.3