I think that, on the whole, the lighting change has been for the better, especially outdoors. I can see we ended up using that same building shot.
My brain has been trying wrap itself around what my eyes are seeing, but I believe I finally understand. I'd appreciate feedback on some of my observations. I'm sure I speak for all of us that it's great to have you here interacting and teaching people.
I'll start with the shots that form the basis for my observation, then move to more example shots.
Firstly, I must establish that the shadows in comparison images on Spidey and the 2 enemies that are casting visible shadows are in the exact same position.
Enemy Shadow:
Spidey Shadow:
You can enhance and check the shadow on the 2nd enemy if you would like.
I marked these spots if people want to see the corresponding positions:
1. Enemy #1 Shadow
2. Enemy #2 Shadow
3. Spidey's Shadow
4. Self-shadow and lighting interaction with suit
2017(Top), 2018(Bottom):
I observe that the time of day appears to be the same with matching shadows for light sources. I observe a noticeable difference in shadow/self-shadow on Spidey. I postulate that Spidey isn't interacting with the lighting the same as before. It's more than a material change, the shadows are different. Of note, I watched a bunch of footage and observed that based on Spidey's position you can get a shadow going a different direction, on let's say an enemy, without both shadows being visible, almost like they're are being sorted and toggled dynamically.
This carries over to the wall where you've postulated that it's a different time of day, but I showed the shadows in 2 spots match perfectly. I believe we are looking at AO in the pictures that was thought to be shadows. This explains the noticeable difference, because it's no longer hitting that wall with the light in the same manner. The shadows are actually gone from every angle I've looked at, even on the rebar under Spidey's left arm...
1. Main Pipe Shadow
2. Main Pipe Ambient Occlusion
3. Spidey Cast Shadow
4. Spidey Suit Shadow
2017(Top), 2018(Bottom):
Here's an example of the lighting/shadow direction changing on the guard, but not showing the mixed shadows. I'm seeing matching shadows under the guard's foot, especially when enhanced. I postulate he's getting the shadow from that source, but the walls aren't in the 2018 version, and the duct isn't getting that same specular highlight either. There are missing shadows in the 2018 version. Again, I believe we are seeing AO, not shadows.
1. Guard casting shadow from light source to right of picture. Enhance under shoe, it's there.
2. Venting duct shadow 1
3. Venting duct shadow 2
4. Venting duct shadow 3
This photo shows the interaction of the light and shadows on Spidey's suit, along with shadows missing on more objects...
1. Interior wall shadow present in 2017, missing 2018
2. Duct shadow
3. Spidey suit shadowing
GDC 2012, Ambient Occlusion Fields and Decals in Infamous 2:
AO example:
My theory is the shadows are gone in many places and the lighting/shadows on some objects are coming from a different source. I believe we are seeing AO on the walls, not shadows.
If true, it could make it hard to compare the 2017 version and performance with the 2018 version, since the 2018 isn't doing expensive shadows all over the environment and Spidey.
If wrong, take me out back and put me down like Old Yeller for messing the thread up. Understandably, I needed to be thorough to engage in discussion with you about my ideas. Thanks again.
