More Than a VTuber? Meet VRChat Enthusiast Hiodoshi Ao
Extended Reality
2-minute read
When it comes to holo's ReGLOSS, most people often mention the highly discussed Juufuutei Raden. However, for those passionate about the virtual world or keeping an eye on the VR scene, Hiodoshi Ao is a VTuber you simply must know. With over five years of VRChat experience, she not only explores various virtual worlds during her streams but also works hard to introduce more people to VR creators. As she transitions into 3D and prepares for her upcoming birthday concert, she's building a bridge between the VTuber and VRChatter communities, blurring the lines between these two worlds.
Who is Hiodoshi Ao?
Hiodoshi Ao is a member of the VTuber group ReGLOSS under hololive DEV_IS, debuting on September 4, 2023. Her cool appearance and androgynous style have attracted many fans, sparking lively discussions about her real gender. She playfully wrote in her bio, "Do you think I'm a cute girl? Actually, I'm Ao-kun!"
Her persona is that of a cool, aloof manga artist who seems to enjoy solitude, but in reality, she's a full-fledged otaku. Beyond her character, she has a strong background in drawing, showcasing her impressive skills in numerous live streams. Besides art, she has another major passion—playing VRChat.
More Than Just a VTuber, a VRChatter Too
In an interview, Hiodoshi Ao mentioned that her initial interest in VR was sparked by influences like "Sword Art Online" and "Harry Potter." In 2019, she bought VR equipment and dove headfirst into this fascinating realm.
Unlike many VTubers who operate with Live2D avatars, Hiodoshi Ao believed from the start that VTubers should integrate into virtual worlds, exploring and interacting freely. VRChat is the perfect platform. After her official 3D debut, she chose to showcase her 3D model directly in VRChat, using motion capture equipment, becoming the first hololive member to debut in 3D on VRChat.
Beyond the usual 3D debut, Hiodoshi Ao also revealed her VRChat 3D model and room last year.
Though she's now a chatty VTuber, she once mentioned in an interview that when she first played VRChat, she was a "silent type," exploring the world quietly without speaking. She loves experiencing interactive virtual environments, using these experiences to understand the limitless possibilities of virtual worlds. As her knowledge of VR equipment and technology deepened, she evolved from just a player to a promoter.
She not only introduces various interesting worlds during her live streams but also actively participates in VRChat events. For instance, at last year's Virtual Market, she had her own booth and spared no effort in promotion. Within hololive, she jokingly calls herself the "VRChat mentor," introducing the platform to her senpais and handling technical teaching during large collaborative events.
VRChat's Virtual Market.
Hiodoshi Ao's love for VRChat is evident to all, and she hopes to introduce it to more creators in the future. Through her influence, she not only brings VTubers closer to VRChatters but also injects new energy into the VRChat community.
