How to Build AI Character Led VR Projects in Unity (Step-By-Step Guide)

Summary:
This guide will teach you how to quickly set up immersive VR projects in Unity using Convai’s AI-powered characters and new streamlined tools. Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading an existing project, you’ll learn both automatic and manual methods for adding conversational AI to your virtual worlds. Perfect for developers, studios, or anyone wanting to create next-generation VR experiences with natural NPC interactions.

Why Use Convai for VR in Unity?

Integrating Convai into Unity unlocks the next level of immersion for VR projects:

1. Conversational AI NPCs:
   Create guides, assistants, or characters who can understand and converse naturally with users.
   
   
2. Narrative-Driven Worlds:
   Use Convai’s narrative design to guide users through spaces with dynamic, personalized storytelling.
   
   
3. Seamless Integration:
   Both new and existing Unity projects can be Convai-powered with just a few clicks—no heavy manual coding required.
   
   
4. VR Device Support:
   Compatible with VR devices like the Meta Quest.
   
   
5. Flexible Setup:
   Automatic and manual options ensure your project settings remain in your control.
   

For more insights, check out Convai’s blog on AI-powered Characters.

How to Get Started: Adding Convai to Your Unity VR Project

Building Convai-powered VR projects is now easier than ever. Here’s how to get started:

1. Open or Create Your Unity Project
Launch Unity and create a new project, or open your existing VR project.

2. Set Up Convai SDK

1. Download and import the Convai SDK for Unity.
2. Follow the official setup guide to connect your Convai account.
   
   

3. Install VR Support via Custom Package Installer

1. Click on “Convai” in the Unity top menu.
2. Select “Custom Package Installer” → “Install VR Package.”
3. Choose Automatic Setup (recommended for new projects) or Manual Setup (if you don’t want to overwrite your settings).
   
   

4. Automatic Setup

1. Let the installer run; it configures everything for you.
2. Once finished, navigate to Assets/Convai/ConvaiXR/Scenes and open ConvaiDemoVR.unity.
3. Import TMP Essentials when prompted.
   
   

5. Manual Setup

1. If you already have a VR project, use the Manual Setup option to avoid changing your settings.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts to add only the ConvaiXR package.
   
   

6. Connect Your VR Device

1. Plug in your VR headset (Meta Quest, Pico, or your preferred XR device).
2. Go to File → Build Settings, check your demo scene, select your device, and hit Build and Run.
   
   

7. Add and Customize Your Convai AI Character

1. Drag and drop your Convai Character into the scene.
2. Use Narrative Design Graph to script interactive tours and conversations.
   
   

8. Test, Iterate, and Enjoy!

Experience fully interactive, AI-driven tours and natural conversations in your own VR environments.

💡Tip: For troubleshooting or step-by-step help, visit the Convai VR Setup Documentation.

Check out the Real-World Demo We Built

Immersive VR Tours with AI Narration

Get started with a live demo. Download it and test for yourself!

Demo Highlights:
A virtual apartment tour, where an AI-powered guide introduces each room, asks for your feedback, and responds to your choices—just like in the video.

• Living area introduction: Open-plan space combining kitchen, dining, and lounge with a reading nook and panoramic windows.
  
  
• Bedroom walkthrough: Highlights features like natural light, storage, and en-suite bathroom.
  
  
• Natural dialogue: The character checks in with users (“Are you ready for the tour?”) and adapts the experience based on their responses.

Benefits of Convai’s Unity VR Integration

• Engage users with lifelike, conversational NPCs.
  
  
• Reduce development time with ready-to-use packages and clear docs.
  
  
• Enable interactive storytelling with zero heavy scripting.
  
  
• Support for the latest VR hardware (Meta Quest, Pico, PC VR, and more).
  
  
• Build social, educational, or entertainment experiences with scalable AI characters.
  
  

For more inspiration, browse the Convai Blog or join the Convai Developer Community for tips and showcases.

The possibilities are endless! Reach out to us with some of the amazing projects you create using Convai by tagging us on LinkedIn or X.

FAQs About Convai Unity VR Integration

Q: Can I add Convai AI to existing Unity VR projects?
A: Yes—use the manual setup to keep your project settings unchanged. See the manual setup guide.

Q: Which VR devices are supported?
A: Convai works with Meta Quest.

Q: How do I script interactive tours or guides?
A: Use Convai’s Narrative Design Graph to define dialogue, tour flow, and branching choices—no code required.

Q: Where can I find more tutorials or community support?
A:

• Convai Documentation
• Convai Blog
• Convai Forum
• Convai YouTube Channel

Q: Is there a quickstart or video guide?
A: Yes, check out the video walkthrough and detailed Unity tutorial.

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