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Debating the Camera Perspective for Resident Evil 9

The decision between a first-person and third-person perspective for Resident Evil 9 remains uncertain, with compelling arguments on both sides.
  • byZoe Ward
  • 25 JANUARY, 2024
  • 159 DAYS 5 HRS
Debating the Camera Perspective for Resident Evil 9

Highlights

  • Resident Evil 9 has the potential to adopt a first-person perspective, known for its ability to instill fear and fully engage players in the game environment.
  • A first-person viewpoint in Resident Evil 9 could enable more intricate environments and immersive gameplay experiences, building upon the successes of Resident Evil 7 and Village.
  • While first-person gameplay has its advantages, reverting to a third-person perspective for Resident Evil 9 would reintroduce the franchise's traditional style and maintain the unique identity of the Ethan Winters duology.

Following the conclusion of Ethan Winters’ journey in Resident Evil Village, and the successful release of the remake of Resident Evil 4, the Resident Evil series finds itself in a favorable position. While the next installment, whether it be Resident Evil 9, another remake, or a significant spin-off, is yet to be confirmed, it is not a cause for concern. Given Capcom’s busy release schedule, the next RE title can take its time to materialize.

During this period of anticipation, fans are left to ponder the nature of the upcoming Resident Evil. Over the past five years, the franchise has ventured into survival-horror, action-horror, and various hybrid genres. The protagonist is also subject to speculation, with the possibility of the return of Chris Redfield, veterans like Claire or Jill taking the lead, or the introduction of a completely new character such as Ethan. Regardless, the focus remains on the placement of the camera, as the choice between first-person and third-person perspectives will significantly influence the essence of Resident Evil 9.

Revisiting the Potential of a First-Person Perspective in Resident Evil 9

The first-person perspective excels in intensifying the horror elements in Resident Evil. While different from the fixed camera angles in titles preceding RE4, the first-person viewpoint adeptly conceals threats from players. Even scenarios with minimal enemies in a cluttered setting become notably more distressing in first-person, compelling players to manage their perspective while defending themselves. The notorious VR mode of Resident Evil 7 is renowned for being one of the most terrifying VR experiences, serving as a compelling argument for the potential reappearance of VR in Resident Evil 9.

Leveraging Predecessors' Innovations in a First-Person Resident Evil 9

Building on that, Resident Evil 9 could leverage a first-person viewpoint for the same reasons it proved successful in Resident Evil 7 and Village. It genuinely immerses players in their character’s perspective, offering a close-up view of the surroundings and enabling design choices that may be more challenging in a third-person format. Environments in Resident Evil 9 could be more intricate, akin to the Baker House in RE7, with players equipped to explore and uncover hidden items. The impact of animations involving arms and legs is particularly significant in a first-person view, as demonstrated in RE7 and Village. Coupled with the potential for VR compatibility, Resident Evil 9 has the makings of the next captivating AAA horror experience.

Considering Alternatives to First-Person Gameplay in Resident Evil 9

Despite the advantages, adopting a first-person perspective for the next Resident Evil risks resembling RE7 and Village too closely. Throughout its history, Resident Evil has predominantly been a third-person franchise, and the RE remakes have demonstrated the continued efficacy of over-the-shoulder viewpoints in action-horror and survival-horror. While first-person can be reserved as an occasional feature, it would be refreshing to witness the return of a numbered Resident Evil title featuring a third-person perspective, a departure from the default first-person approach since 2017.

First-Person Gameplay as a Hallmark of Ethan Winters in Resident Evil

Furthermore, overlooking the significance of first-person perspectives in RE7 and RE Village is a valid concern. The Winters duology was centered around the concept of Ethan Winters as a faceless self-insert character. Despite the inclusion of third-person cutscenes and the addition of a third-person mode in RE Village, Ethan's concealed visage remained a defining aspect of his design. Introducing any other established protagonist in Resident Evil 9 would be better suited to a third-person viewpoint, allowing players to visually connect with their character, emphasizing more dynamic protagonists like Leon, known for his combat prowess. The decision between first and third-person perspectives in Resident Evil 9 is a multifaceted one, and designing around either perspective will have far-reaching implications.

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