Virtual artists, also known as Vtubers, are having a moment now, and this is mainly because the barriers that prevent the creation of a digital avatar are lower than ever. You can, if you want, hire a professional to make a Vtubing model for you for hundreds or a few thousand dollars. Or you can download some software and make it yourself – completely free.
During the holidays, Steam saw the launch of VRoid Studio, a program that allows you to create 3D models of humanoid characters. You can use your creations in games like VR Chat, or you can adopt them as avatars for streaming. The program allows for commercial and non-commercial use, which is great because it means that you don’t have to worry about another entity that owns your creation.
“You don’t have to be artistic to use the program,” says one of the main reviews on the Steam store page. “You can use your hair to make accessories like horns, wings, tails, glasses, earrings, etc. With a lot of practice and skill, you can make very creative models. ” The store description also indicates that you have a lot of flexibility in making facial expressions. Evaluations note, however, that the program is demanding and can be delayed unless you are using top of the line equipment. Still, given the price, it is difficult to complain.
Although this program was technically available before this release, being on Steam – the world’s largest PC game distribution platform – will undoubtedly do wonders for bringing Vtubing to an even larger audience. The VRoid Studio community tab is already full of people displaying their new avatars, like the one at the top of this post, where Steam user Juliet-Veil revealed an anime version of her fursona. The community is also full of people asking for help to navigate the program, as many have never worked with a resource like this before. With these tools becoming more ubiquitous and easier to use, 2021 is likely to see the Vtubing wave rise to new heights.