[NBT] Reduce Camera Coverage

[Butterrobber202]

Security is pretty good at checking cameras and the AI quite the stinker to deal with if you let any info slip out that you're up to dirty deeds. The Horizon does have locations where coverage won't reach you, but most of these places are locked behind maintenance access. Here's my small suggestion on where to remove or reduce camera coverage.

 

KEY:

Red Ink - Remove

Blue Ink - Move

Green Ink - Special

 

1. Kitchen Freezer

Spoiler

The Freezer has long been a safe haven for antagonists, chef or otherwise, to dip out of Security's view. Besides this location, Service Antagonists don't have many options for conducting sneaky deeds outside of maintenance. I think the freezer is certainly low-security enough to not warrant a camera.

 

2. The Bar Longue

Spoiler

This little alcove tucked behind the bar would make an excellent meetup point for antagonists or private (nonantag) get togethers. The only downside is, even if you close the curtains, Security and the AI can still see you. This is another low-security area that can get away with a camera. Additionally, Security can still check if the curtains are closed or not using the green camera. I do acknowledge that the nearby 4x4 seating is completely private, but there is no way to enter or exit that room without being seen by the longue patrons, where the larger one has a maintenance escape.

 

3. Deck 1 (Lowest Deck) Maintenance

Spoiler

I certainly thought this was a strange choice, as traditionally, tunnels do not contain cameras so Antagonists have a method of quietly traversing the map besides public hallways. I'd like to see a return to form in this area. 

 

4. Cargo Warehouse Side Sections

Spoiler

These two sections of the Cargo Warehouse are practically begging to be used for antagonists due to their sealable nature and semi-remoteness. Not to mention, a false wall would provide an excellent escape route if added in. Additionally, outside of maint, there is no hidden areas in Operations currently.

 

5. Morgue

Spoiler

The lift elevator can be controlled by the AI from the floor above this area, so removing the camera here will not impact their control. But, if someone was getting rid of a dubiously murdered body, the camera would get in the way. Not to mention, this is a tiny little room that hardly warrants a cam in the first place.

As for the main morgue camera itself, it should be scooted over to not provide perfect coverage, and give some wiggle room for breaking in.

 

6. The Crusher

Spoiler

Another adjustment. Moving the Camera here still allows the AI to control the buttons, but reduces the ability to completely see every tile of the room.

 

7. Consular's Office

Spoiler

Consulars, even when not antagonists, get into some shady shit. It would be nice if this was facilitated by removing the camera in their office. If Security wants to watch them, they could certainly post Officers on their single door. As a note, the Representative Office does not have a Camera. While they are treated better, Consular's have a similar gameplay loop.

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That's all I got. I didn't post this in the main thread because this suggestion is rather specific and could end up causing discussion, so I thought I'd put it here.

Edited February 14, 2022 by Butterrobber202
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[Pratepresidenten]

Im all for more open camera deadzones for the AI. I'd like to see how it looks in practice though.

[NerdyVampire]

Speaking as a primarily AI player, I can appreciate all these changes. I am however more in favor of adding a camera to the representative than removing one from the consulars. Both because I recognize and appreciate the opportunity to observe when something sketchy (but not criminal) is going on, even if I have no intention of reporting it, and also because I consider them VIP enough that it makes more logical sense for me to have cameras and simply having the players find a remote location on station for their sketchy stuff when it needs doing (which also encourages involving other/civilian crew).
A solution I think would make sense for both offices, would be a button that simply cut power to the cameras, a 'confidentiality button' if you will. Is it suspicious? Yeah, but their positions warrants that they can ensure privacy when they require it.