Hi there buddy,
I (personally) was playing the original C&C: Renegade and i am waiting for the mod to be released officially for everyone, with the multiplayer.
As far as i know from playing a little bit on Black Dawn and on the beta that used to run via Unreal Tournament 3, the 3rd person view is indeed not right behind your character but rather sideways. it's not something that takes too long to get used to, and within couple of games you'll get used to it.
I am wondering, however, how long until the the full site will return, because its been about 2 months (roughly) since the forums got upgraded, and the full site has yet to return.
Anyway, welcome to the community and enjoy your stay!