What is a VRCA file?

A VRCA file is essentially an avatar file designed for use in VRChat, a virtual reality social platform. VRChat allows users to create and share their custom avatars for interaction in virtual worlds. The VRCA file serves as container for all essential elements of an avatar, including its 3D model, textures, shaders and various data needed to represent player’s character within VRChat environment.

About VRChat

VRChat is free-to-play virtual reality (VR) social platform that has gained widespread popularity; users on VRChat can engage with each other in virtual environments, providing unique social experience; the platform supports virtual reality headsets for an immersive experience, but it is also accessible without VR equipment through desktop computers.

One of distinctive features of VRChat is ability for users to create and customize their avatars; this customization ranges from simple character designs to intricate 3D models; Avatars play central role in representing users in virtual space, allowing for diverse and creative self-expression.

VRChat extends beyond personal avatars to user-generated content in form of virtual worlds; users can design and share their own environments, incorporating interactive elements and scripting behaviors; this emphasis on user-generated content contributes to platform’s dynamic and varied experiences.

The VRChat Software Development Kit (SDK) empowers users with some technical knowledge to contribute their content to platform; this SDK enables creation and uploading of avatars, worlds and other interactive elements, fostering collaborative and creative community.

VRChat avatars are often distributed using VRCA files. These files serve as containers for necessary assets and information of user’s avatar, encompassing 3D model, textures, shaders and more; while most VRChat users may not directly encounter VRCA files in their regular platform use, those who download custom avatars or access public avatars through VRChat’s API may engage with these files.

How to open a VRCA file?

VRCA files are not meant to be opened. However, you can use some tools e.g. uTinyRipper to extract its assets.