2D Avatars
2D avatars were the first examples of a metaverse avatar. They’re essentially a flat representation of the user. 2D avatars are usually used within 2D environments. It’s essentially a picture or pixel-based representation of someone. This is similar to the player representations found in older 8 or 16-bit video games.
3D Avatars
With the exponential development of modern technology came dramatic changes to avatars. 2D gave rise to a full 3D expression for users. This typically provides a fully humanoid form that can be viewed from multiple angles. This includes elements like hair and skin tone. And it can appear quite lifelike.
VR Avatars
VR avatars are a type of 3D avatar. These metaverse avatar forms are unique in that the user typically doesn’t see them. Users instead look out from the avatar’s perspective from a first-person view. VR avatars typically lack most limbs to make it easier for older systems to render properly.
Leg-less VR Avatars
This type of metaverse avatar is a type of 3D avatar similar to a VR avatar. Some metaverse systems don’t render a user’s legs as a VR avatar. This is done to reduce system requirements, reduce height issues, and account for any lack of leg sensors on VR systems.
Full Body Avatars
This is the most advanced metaverse avatar. It uses sensors to recreate the user’s entire body in the metaverse fully. This provides a full range of movement and makes it easy to interact with digital assets. Advanced VR games typically use this system, and it’s thought Facebook’s metaverse will too.
