> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mindcodeinteractive.gitbook.io/easy-build-system/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mindcodeinteractive.gitbook.io/easy-build-system/reference/building-controller/building-view.md).

# Building View

Defines how the building system casts rays into the scene based on the active camera perspective. Supports First Person, Third Person, Top Down, and Orbital views.

***

### How Views Work

Each view handles raycasting, snap detection, and placement distance validation for its camera type. The active view is selected by the [Building Controller](/easy-build-system/reference/building-controller.md) and can be switched at runtime.\
All views share the same base settings for raycast distance, layers, snap radius, and distance limits.

***

### Built-in Views

#### First Person View

Casts a ray forward from the camera center.\
Best for first-person controllers where the player aims with the camera directly.

#### Third Person View

Casts a ray from a configurable offset relative to the camera.\
Best for over-the-shoulder perspectives where the cursor is centered but the camera is behind the player.

#### Top Down View

Raycasts from the mouse position through the camera.\
Best for top-down or isometric perspectives where the player clicks to place.

#### Orbital View

Casts a ray from a rotating orbit point around the player.\
Best for camera setups that orbit freely around a target.

***

### Creating Custom Views

Inherit from `BuildingView` and implement `GetRay()`:

```csharp
using UnityEngine;
using MindCodeInteractive.EasyBuildSystem.Framework.Code.Runtime.Systems.Controllers.Views.Abstracts;

public class MyCustomView : BuildingView
{
    public override BuildingViewType ViewType => BuildingViewType.FirstPerson;

    public override Ray GetRay()
    {
        // Return a ray from your custom camera setup
        return new Ray(transform.position, transform.forward);
    }
}
```

***

### Scripting Examples

Get the active view:

```csharp
BuildingView view = BuildingController.Instance.ActiveView;
```

Switch view at runtime:

```csharp
BuildingController.Instance.SetView(BuildingViewType.ThirdPerson);
```

Get the current ray:

```csharp
Ray ray = BuildingController.Instance.ActiveView.GetRay();
```

Check if a position is within valid distance:

```csharp
bool valid = BuildingController.Instance.ActiveView.IsWithinValidDistance(position);
```


---

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