Abstract: Systems and methods for universal facial expression translation and character rendering. An example method includes obtaining a three-dimensional face model of a face of a virtual character. The three-dimensional face model is presented in a user interface, with facial characteristics of the three-dimensional face model adjustable in the user interface. Definitions of facial shapes of the virtual character are obtained, with each facial shape being associated with a facial shape identifier. A facial shape identifier indicates a type of adjustment of facial characteristics. A facial shape represents the three-dimensional face model of the virtual character with facial characteristics according to associated facial shape identifiers. The facial shapes are stored in a database as being associated with the character. User input specifying one or more facial shape identifiers is received.