How the Second-Person View in Video Games Works Using CCTV Cameras
In the world of gaming, first-person and third-person views are the bread and butter for most game developers and players. While these perspectives have become a staple in the industry, the concept of a second-person view remains largely unexplored. However, a recent prototype by developer and digital artist James Dalzell Hodge, also known as JAM2GO, gives us a peek into how this rare perspective might function in video games.
A New Perspective on Gaming
JAM2GO’s innovative prototype, created in Unreal Engine 5, uses a series of CCTV cameras to follow the player’s character. While it might bring back memories of the classic Resident Evil games with their fixed camera angles, JAM2GO has deviated from the old “tank controls,” offering a smoother and more dynamic gameplay experience.
Working on a grid of CCTV cameras that follows your every move.
It's surprisingly fun to navigate around like this, feels like an old Resident Evil game without the tank controls.
[Song: data.matrix – Ryoji Ikeda] pic.twitter.com/niWVgfjMnD
— 𝐉𝐀𝐌߶𝐆𝐎 (@Jam2go) July 18, 2024
“I have the player movement completely separate from the camera position,” says JAM2GO. “So holding a direction will keep you moving in that direction even from different camera angles. It’s a little confusing to control at first but it works well!”
Is It Really a Second-Person View?
The idea of a second-person view, where the game is experienced from the perspective of another character watching the protagonist, is still a subject of debate. According to a poll conducted by JAM2GO, there is an ongoing discussion about whether this prototype represents a true second-person perspective or merely a unique form of third-person view.
Working on a CCTV cam pic.twitter.com/f3DJi2VHLa
— 𝐉𝐀𝐌߶𝐆𝐎 (@Jam2go) July 15, 2024
Digital artist and gaming enthusiast Nick Robinson has a popular video discussing second-person perspectives in games. He suggests that introducing an NPC (non-player character) who watches the player through the CCTV cameras could enhance the second-person experience. This perspective shift creates a unique and engaging narrative element.
Evolution into a Horror Experience
JAM2GO has shared additional demos showcasing the prototype evolving into a more authentic horror experience. By integrating the CCTV camera approach, the game gains an eerie atmosphere that could significantly enhance the thriller or horror genres in the future. These demos highlight how second-person perspectives can be used to create unique and immersive player experiences.
Why is this so terrifying https://t.co/6JnNtq5eBB pic.twitter.com/gtz9lmPcbL
— 𝐉𝐀𝐌߶𝐆𝐎 (@Jam2go) July 19, 2024
I swear this prototype didn't start out as a horror game.
[Song: Disasterpeace – Heels] pic.twitter.com/815UgKDcps
— 𝐉𝐀𝐌߶𝐆𝐎 (@Jam2go) July 19, 2024
Where to Follow JAM2GO
If you’re interested in seeing more fascinating projects and learning about game development, following JAM2GO on social media can be quite rewarding. The digital artist is active on Twitter and Instagram, sharing various projects and prototypes regularly. Additionally, his YouTube channel offers many insightful tutorials on creating games using Unreal Engine.
Check out some of these videos for more:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/KwEEwS9ZVmY
https://www.youtube.com/embed/xsy27MCbJWM
https://www.youtube.com/embed/h2Sk9ya4mho
With innovative minds like JAM2GO, the gaming industry continues to evolve, offering fresh and thought-provoking perspectives. The second-person view, although currently uncommon, could see a rise in adoption and development, thanks to how it provides a novel and immersive angle for storytelling in video games.