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Custom Environments

  • Updated

With Spatial, any supported 3D model file can be set as the shared virtual environment for your space! This allows maximum flexibility for creators when designing their worlds in the metaverse.

In this article, learn how to:

  • Upload, Position, and Scale your 3D file to set it as an explorable Custom Environment.
  • Set a Custom Entrance Point.
  • Replace your custom environment.

  • To create a Custom Skybox, visit this guide. 

Specifications to target for your environments: Spatial 3D Model Preparation Guide

Also see:

Uploading Content & File Types

3D Models: Adding Special Textures, Colliders, and Hotspots

Quick Guide: Decimating Models

Creating a Skybox

 

Instructions (In VR)

CE-1.jpgdefault_customenv.png

STEP 1: Select your file. Click the "Set as Environment" Icon. 

TIP: When you upload a multi-level environment, you can teleport to multiple levels. Just make sure Advanced Surface Teleportation is toggled on in your Environment settings to enable multi-level teleportation.

 

set_environment_web.jpegScreen_Shot_2022-03-28_at_3.40.47_PM.png

STEP 2: Select set as SKYBOX or set as ENVIRONMENT. 

  • Skybox = The landscape, 360 orb that creates the backdrop 
  • Environment = The space or structure you'll be immersed in
  • Click HERE for instructions to create your own Skybox

 

set_enviro_vr.jpegScreen_Shot_2022-03-28_at_3.45.42_PM.png

STEP 3: Orient your environment.

  • On VR, use your controller triggers to rotate, resize and adjust the model to desired scale. 
  • On Web, use the X, Y, Z, Rotation and Scale tools to orient the model to its desired scale. 
  • TIP: Notice the grey avatar silhouette and floor grid. The size of this grey avatar relative to the environment is how the scale will appear when you set the space. The floor grid determines the ground level of your space.
  • TIP: When scaling, 1 unit = 1 meter. 

 

final_adjustemnts_vr.jpegset_floor_level.gif

STEP 4: Scale the model to make sure it feels right and make any final adjustments. Gently use your controllers or mouse to select the environment and shift it as needed. Users in the room will not see you doing this. 

TIP: Place your environment's floor level just barely above the floor grid. If you're using a multi-level environment, set your floor level at the lowest floor of your model. See below.

Step 5: Once you've made your adjustments, click Looks Good and become immersed in your space. 

 

spawn_point_custom_env.2022-03-28_16_22_16.gif

Step 6: OPTIONAL: Set a Custom Entrance Point in your environment to determine where users will spawn when they join a space. Navigate to your Environment settings and click Custom Spawn Point.  Be sure to lock this point in place using the Lock button. 

 

Set a Custom Spawn Point (Web + VR only)

This point will determine where users will spawn when they join a space. 

  1. Navigate to your Environment settings (...) and click Custom Spawn Point. 
  2. Click and drag the spawn point to the desired location.
  3. Be sure to lock this point in place using the Lock button.
  4. Remove or reposition a spawn point by clicking on the white pin and unlocking it, then drag it to the desired location.

Replace your Custom Environment

This feature allows you to quickly replace a custom environment with another model, without the hassle of scaling and positioning.

 

Things to keep in mind:

  • You can switch between our default environments and your custom environment by going to Settings --> Change environment. 
  • Each space can have one custom environment saved at a time.

 

🚧 Need Help Making A Custom Environment? 

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