FPP

FPP stands for first-person perspective, a mode of presenting visual information in which events are shown through the eyes of a character or avatar. It contrasts with third-person perspective, where the viewer observes the character from an external viewpoint. In interactive media, FPP is widely used in video games and virtual reality, and it is a defining convention for many first-person experiences. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with first-person narration in non-interactive media, but in gaming, FPP most often refers to camera placement.

In video games, the camera is positioned to simulate looking from the character’s eyes, with the character’s hands and any equipped weapon or tool visible in the foreground. The field of view (FOV) is a key parameter; a narrower FOV can create tunnel vision and discomfort for some players, while a wider FOV improves peripheral awareness but can distort perception. Aiming and interaction are typically performed directly from the first-person view, often using a crosshair or weapon sights.

History and usage: early experiments with first-person viewpoints appeared in 1970s text-and-graphics and early 3D titles such as Maze War and Spasim. The style gained widespread popularity with Wolfenstein 3D (1992) and Doom (1993), which helped establish the practical and aesthetic norms of the first-person shooter genre. Modern game engines support highly detailed graphical fidelity, advanced motion physics, and smooth camera transitions within the FPP paradigm.

In film, virtual reality, and simulation, first-person perspective is used to enhance immersion and presence. In VR, FPP is often the default view, while filmmakers may employ FPP techniques to create subjective experiences. Design considerations for FPP include controlling motion sickness, maintaining intuitive weapon handling, and balancing immersion with clear situational awareness.

Notes: the acronym FPP is sometimes distinguished from FPS, where FPS refers to the first-person shooter genre rather than perspective alone. See also: first-person shooter, third-person perspective.