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Fix VRChat Unity VCC Console Error When Uploading Avatar

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by

David Turner

Virtual reality has revolutionized online interaction, and VRChat is at the forefront of this innovation. However, uploading an avatar using Unity and the VRChat Creator Companion (VCC) can sometimes result in a frustrating console error that halts your progress. Whether you are a seasoned content creator or just getting started, understanding how to fix common VCC console errors when uploading avatars is crucial.

TLDR:

If you’re trying to upload an avatar to VRChat but the VCC (VRChat Creator Companion) console throws an error, you’re likely facing issues related to improper SDK integration, Unity version mismatches, or unsupported components in your avatar. First, ensure you’re using the correct Unity version and VRChat SDK. Next, inspect your console log closely for missing scripts, corrupted files, or incorrect configurations. Fixes usually involve reimporting assets, verifying SDK compatibility, and clearing obscure Unity cache issues.

Understanding the VCC and Unity Workflow

The VRChat Creator Companion (VCC) is a consolidated tool provided by VRChat to simplify the avatar and world creation workflow using Unity. It assists creators by setting up the correct environment with the necessary dependencies like the VRChat SDK, making the development process smoother. That said, it’s not immune to errors—especially when uploading avatars to VRChat servers.

Most VCC errors manifest during the build or upload phase in Unity and often appear in the Unity Console. These errors can be due to:

  • Using the wrong Unity version
  • Outdated or incompatible VRChat SDK
  • Script compile issues due to corrupted or missing files
  • Improper avatar rigging or animation components

Common Console Errors and How to Fix Them

1. “Component ‘X’ Could Not Be Found”

This error usually occurs when there’s a missing or obsolete script attached to the avatar prefab. Unity flags it as a missing component, breaking the build process.

Fix:

  • Open the avatar prefab in Unity.
  • Look for any GameObjects with the yellow warning triangle symbol.
  • Remove the missing script or re-attach the corrected script if needed.

2. “VRCA Upload Failed – BuildPipeline Error”

This is typically a Unity pipeline issue caused by misconfigured build settings or improperly formatted textures and models.

Fix:

  • Ensure you’re using the recommended Unity version (currently Unity 2019.4.31f1 for VRChat as of 2024).
  • Re-import the 3D model or delete and reapply the import settings.
  • Make sure your avatar’s shaders are VRChat-compatible such as VRChat/Mobile or Poiyomi.

3. “SDK Not Detected”

If the VRChat SDK is not properly detected by the VCC or Unity, you won’t be able to upload anything.

Fix:

  • Reopen the project using VRChat Creator Companion.
    Go to VCC > Projects > Open Project and double-check that your project was created using VCC.
  • In Unity, go to Assets > VRChat SDK > Show Control Panel to see if the SDK panel opens. If it doesn’t, reimport SDK.
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Double Check Unity Version

VRChat is very picky about the Unity version. If you’re not using the exact version supported by VRChat, even minor version differences can render your avatar upload impossible.

Solution: Download the recommended version (as noted on the VRChat documentation) from the Unity Hub and create a new avatar project with it via the VCC. Always use VCC to create your project folders—it ensures compatibility straight out of the box.

Other Tips and Tricks

  • Clear GI Cache: Go to Edit > Preferences > GI Cache and click “Clear Cache.” This fixes texture and lighting compile errors.
  • Disable Auto Lightmapping: Go to Window > Rendering > Lighting and uncheck “Auto Generate.” Long scene load times can cause Unity to hang during builds.
  • Check Compiler Console: Always fix all red compiler errors before attempting an upload. Even one breaking script will stop the process.
  • Use VRChat SDK Logs: In Unity, use VRChat SDK > Control Panel > Show Logs to get upload-specific errors.

When All Else Fails: Start Fresh

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still can’t upload your avatar, consider starting with a fresh project:

  1. Open the VCC and create a brand-new avatar project using the proper Unity version.
  2. Download and reimport your avatar model into the new clean scene.
  3. Avoid duplicating entire project directories across machines as VCC may not recognize the project’s config data.

This method often resolves privileged errors or corruption that can’t be easily tracked in console logs.

Preventing Future Errors

To minimize the chance of running into Unity console errors in the future when uploading to VRChat:

  • Always use the VCC to create and manage projects.
  • Keep your SDK updated via the VCC interface.
  • Install any required shaders or dynamic bones properly before adding them to the scene.
  • Avoid dragging in prefabs from different Unity projects as they may carry incompatible scripts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Unity version does VRChat currently use?
A: As of 2024, VRChat uses Unity 2019.4.31f1. Check the official VRChat documentation for the most updated version.
Q: Why does my avatar upload freeze at “Building Asset Bundle”?
A: This often occurs due to large texture files, corrupted shaders, or Unity background processes like light mapping. Try clearing the cache and disabling “Auto Generate” in the Lighting tab.
Q: The SDK Control Panel doesn’t open—what do I do?
A: Reimport the SDK using the VCC or create a new project, as the SDK may not have been installed correctly.
Q: Can I use custom shaders with my VRChat avatar?
A: Yes, but they must be supported by VRChat’s safety system. Popular options like Poiyomi or VRChat’s own shaders are recommended.
Q: VCC says SDK is up to date, but Unity can’t detect it—why?
A: This usually happens when Unity caches get corrupted. Try deleting the Library folder in your project directory while Unity is closed, then reopen the project using VCC.

Uploading custom avatars to VRChat can be incredibly rewarding, but waiting hours only to be met with console errors is a real buzzkill. By following these structured troubleshooting approaches and staying up to date with VRChat’s guidelines, you can ensure smoother uploads and focus on building exciting virtual experiences.