Description: The ‘First person’ perspective is used in video games and simulations that allows the player to experience the environment through the eyes of the character they control. This visualization technique creates deep immersion, as the player not only observes the virtual world but lives it directly, feeling as if they are part of the action. In this mode, the visual interface is limited to what the character can see, including their field of vision, hands, and the objects they hold. This perspective is especially effective in genres like first-person shooters, where precision and quick reaction are crucial. Additionally, the ‘First person’ perspective can influence the game’s narrative, as it allows for a stronger emotional connection between the player and the character by experiencing their thoughts and emotions more directly. The first-person representation can also include elements of surround sound and visual effects that simulate human perception, further enhancing the sense of realism and presence in the virtual environment.
History: The first-person perspective began to take shape in the 1970s with early 3D video games like ‘Maze War’ (1974) and ‘Spasim’ (1979). However, it was in the 1990s that it became popular with titles like ‘Wolfenstein 3D’ (1992) and ‘Doom’ (1993), which established the foundations for first-person shooters. As technology advanced, graphics and gameplay improved, allowing for more immersive experiences. In the 2000s, games like ‘Half-Life’ (1998) and ‘Halo: Combat Evolved’ (2001) took first-person narrative and gameplay mechanics to new heights, becoming benchmarks of the genre.
Uses: The first-person perspective is primarily used in video games, especially in genres like shooters, adventures, and simulators. It is also applied in virtual reality applications, where immersion is key to the user experience. Additionally, it has been explored in educational and training environments, where users can learn practical skills in a simulated setting.
Examples: Examples of first-person games include ‘Call of Duty’, ‘Counter-Strike’, and ‘The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’. In the realm of virtual reality, titles like ‘Beat Saber’ and ‘Half-Life: Alyx’ provide immersive experiences that leverage this perspective. Flight and driving simulators also use this perspective to allow users to experience the sensation of being in command of a vehicle.
