Fixing VRMs with Incorrectly Named Morph Targets in Blender

This guide will help you correct improperly named morph targets in VRM models, ensuring they function correctly in the Otherhalf app. Follow these steps to install the necessary tools, import your VRM, and adjust shape keys for proper compatibility.

1. Install Blender and VRM Import Plugin

Start by downloading the latest version of Blender. Additionally, install the VRM format add-on to import VRM files into Blender:

• Search for "VRM format for Blender."

• Download the plugin and install it by dragging it into Blender or adding it via Edit > Preferences > Add-ons.

• Verify the installation in the Add-ons section of Blender’s Preferences.

2. Importing Your VRM File

Once the add-on is installed:

• Open Blender and delete the default cube.

• Import your VRM model by navigating to File > Import > VRM.

• Locate your model and load it into the scene.

3. Navigating Blender for Easy Editing

For better control when working in Blender:

• Go to Edit > Preferences > Input and enable "Emulate 3-Button Mouse."

• Use Alt + Left Click to rotate the model.

• Use Alt + Shift + Left Click to pan.

• Scroll to zoom in and out.

4. Identifying and Renaming Morph Targets (Shape Keys)

VRM mouth movements in Otherhalf rely on specific shape keys. To find and rename them:

• Click on the face of your model.

• Open the Properties panel and navigate to the Data section.

• Expand the Shape Keys panel to view available morph targets.

• Identify two key shape keys:

  • One that forms an “O” shape (rename it to fcl_MTH_O).

  • One that forms an “A” shape (rename it to fcl_MTH_A).

  • Ensure cl remains lowercase in both names.

5. Exporting the Corrected VRM

Once the shape keys are renamed:

• In the Outliner, navigate to Collection > Armature and right-click Select Hierarchy.

• Go to File > Export > VRM.

• On the right panel, select Export Only Selections and uncheck Export Advanced Options.

• Save the exported VRM in an accessible location.

6. Testing in Otherhalf

Now that the model is correctly formatted, import it into Otherhalf and verify the mouth animations. If the model doesn’t animate properly, double-check that the shape keys are correctly named.

For a step-by-step video tutorial, watch: Fixing VRMs with Incorrectly Named Morph Targets.