Create a Prefab Variant based on an existing FBX model

Create a Prefab Variant based on an existing FBX Model Prefab without having to perform FBX re-export.

For example, you might need to do this if you already exported a Unity GameObject to FBX using the FBX Exporter, or if you imported an external FBX file in your project.

Results to expect

When you perform this action, Unity:

  • Keeps the FBX file and its corresponding Model Prefab unchanged, and
  • Creates a new Prefab Variant based on the Model Prefab.

Create the Prefab Variant

To create a Prefab Variant based on an FBX Model Prefab:

  1. In the Project window, right-click on the Model Prefab to use as the base of the Prefab Variant.

  2. Select Create > Prefab Variant.

Further management

After you create the Prefab Variant:

  • The FBX file remains unchanged and continues to be the model source which you can edit via a 3D modeling application.

  • The created Prefab Variant becomes the only asset you should manipulate and instantiate in your Unity project.

Additional resources