The original Dead Space released in 2008 has secured its place among the finest and most cherished survival horror games. Emerging at a time when the genre was not as prominent as it is today, Dead Space, developed by Visceral Games, made a significant impact on the horror genre, laying the groundwork for its current popularity. However, the series shifted towards a more action-oriented approach, particularly with the mixed reception of Dead Space 3 due to unwelcomed changes.
Following a ten-year hiatus after the third installment in 2013, the Dead Space remake kicked off 2023 with a strong start. Meanwhile, Capcom continued to deliver well-received Resident Evil titles, including the RE4 remake. However, the franchise's two previous releases, RE7 and Village, marked a significant departure from the traditional fixed angle and third-person viewpoints, opting for a first-person perspective. Village even provided players with the option to switch between views, a feature that a new Dead Space could effectively utilize to intensify the horror.
Enhancing Horror with Inspiration from Resident Evil Village
The Impact of Camera and Perspectives in Survival Horror Games
In horror games, camera and perspective design significantly influence the intensity of the experience and the desired emotional responses from players. When executed effectively, these elements elevate the terror and gameplay, leaving a lasting impression on players.
Resident Evil's Transition to First-Person
The revelation of Resident Evil 7 in 2016 brought about a major surprise with its shift to a first-person perspective, a departure from the traditional RE series. This change, along with other design choices, revitalized the series and resulted in RE7 being hailed as the most terrifying Resident Evil title to date. RE Village continued this trend, offering players the choice between first and third-person views through its Shadows of Rose DLC.
The Case for First and Third-Person Camera Options in a New Dead Space
Dead Space already delivers intense horror in third-person, with its eerie setting and grotesque enemies. Introducing a first-person view would further enhance immersion and intensify combat encounters. Whether it's through remakes or a new installment, offering both first and third-person settings would empower fans to choose their preferred way of experiencing the game's terrors.