How VTubers Redefine Live Streaming and More with VR Tracking

The first video ever uploaded to YouTube has become a historical artifact, and for good reason. The popularity of the video sharing platform has made it a pillar of pop culture, entertainment, and content creation. VTubing, an evolved form of content creation, has now exploded onto the scene along with the amazing technologies of virtual reality and body tracking. 

Short for “virtual YouTubing,” VTubing is the production of videos, live streaming, and interactive content by an individual with a digital avatar — a VTuber. At its core, VTubing is built on storytelling and developing organic connections with the VTuber’s audience. 

Originally a Japanese trend, VTubing’s popularity went global largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As quarantine laws and safety scares spiked, people all over the world struggled with isolation. This innovative concept captured the hearts of viewers and provided them with a community of positivity. 

In this blog post, we will dive into the world of VTubing and explore its integration with virtual reality (VR) technology. We’ll give you a close look at avatars and motion capture — the magical elements behind these bright, colorful characters! 

Avatars 

It can be hard to develop deep connections when you can’t put a face to a voice. This is why avatars are the foundation of the VTubing experience. They are one of the first things that people look at when they enjoy your content — the eye candy that further engages the audience.  

Avatar customization is extremely detailed, as the smallest details can drive the VTuber’s persona. Factors like colors and eye shape can affect how bright the VTuber’s personality feels or how serious they can get. Down to the last freckle or mole, the details really do matter! 

When it comes to avatar types, VTubers choose between 2D, PNG, and 3D avatars, each with their own set of advantages and limitations. There is no right answer to which type of avatar is the best for VTubing. There is a beauty and a unique style to all avatar types, and each provides a different element for the VTuber and their community. 

2D avatars 

2D avatars are 2D images that have been animated like cartoons. Every movement in these images is independently designed by an artist. 2D avatars tend to be easy to use and stay true to the anime aesthetic. But due to the amount of work needed to create animations, a detailed 2D avatar can be difficult to make. A VTuber’s movements can be translated onto a 2D avatar with the help of motion capture software, which we’ll explain in the next section. 

PNG avatars 

PNG avatars are essentially a set of images that light up or change when they detect your voice. For example, by alternating between an image of an avatar with an open mouth and one of the same with a closed mouth, it looks as if the avatar is talking — just like a flip book!  

You can elevate this flip book effect with Live2D avatars, which can react to your facial movements in real life instead of just your voice, resulting in more emotive expression. Although simple, these types of avatars are optimal for VTubers that are just starting out, or just want to chat and make interactive, sweet content! 

3D avatars 

3D avatars are a bit different, as they are complete 3D models designed to be controlled by users, just like a video game character. By wearing VR trackers, you can control 3D VR avatars just by moving your body. These models are typically in the .vrm format, which means the avatar can be brought into many virtual experiences. 3D avatars are perfect for VTubers that want to express big movements or create content in social VR apps like VRChat. 

Motion capture technology

What good is a perfect avatar if it can’t move? The magic in VTubing is the unique form of realism it offers, which can be heightened with a combination of tracking and rigging — tracking identifies real world movements of the user, while rigging ensures that those tracked movements translate onto the avatar. 

Rigging combines the skillset of animation with the art of realism. An easy way of explaining rigging is connecting the VTuber’s physical muscles to the same ones on the avatar, that way, when they show emotion, like roll their eyes, laugh, or wink, the avatar will do it too.  

This process of animating avatar facial expressions and mapping them onto avatars creates opportunities for more engaging and authentic experiences. 

A VTuber then uses special cameras, software, and VR equipment to track their face and identify these facial movements in real time so they can be replicated by their avatars. But realism doesn’t just stop at the neck. 

Full-body tracking is another key aspect of VTubing, and has become more easily accessible with VR trackers. However, full-body tracking is not required for VTubing! While basic tracking of the fingers and upper body can be achieved with webcam-based tracking, most VTubers that employ full-body tracking use base station trackers like the VIVE Tracker 3.0 or inside-out trackers like the VIVE Ultimate Tracker. These tracking solutions allow for full-body movements that look extremely natural and fluid. 

VR vs. non-VR 

VTubers don’t all use VR technology like VR headsets or trackers. The majority of VTubers use PCs paired with facial tracking software, giving them a wider range of games, content, and activities to explore with their viewers.  

However, VR has taken VTubing to new heights, introducing elements that bring the physical and virtual worlds together.  

VR headsets like the VIVE XR Elite can immerse VTubers in experiences like VRChat, taking both them and their viewers on interactive adventures that go beyond those taken with just a PC. 

Throw on a few VIVE Ultimate Trackers for full-body tracking, and you now have content that makes for hilarious and new experiences that are wonderful to play and also to watch. 

You can learn how to use the VIVE XR Elite and VIVE Ultimate Trackers for VTubing by watching the video below. 

Different VR headsets offer varying features and capabilities, catering to different needs and preferences within the VTubing community. PC VR headsets prioritize Steam and VIVEPORT for a wider range of content, while standalone VR headsets focus on freedom of movement and flexibility. 

What's next for VTubing? 

VTubing has skyrocketed into the YouTube and streaming world, and for good reason! While avatars, platforms, and tracking options may vary, VTubing offers a fresh twist on online entertainment. Its wholesome and hilarious personalities give viewers a unique way to unwind and be part of a diverse community. 

The future of VR technology and VTubing holds tremendous potential for innovation and growth. Advancements in motion capture technology, VR hardware, and artificial intelligence are poised to revolutionize the way we create and consume digital content. 

Whether you just want to make an avatar and casually meet new friends or start a full-blown virtual reality adventure with your VR headset, one thing is for certain: The people you meet will be nothing short of amazing!