I want to leave the question online so that others with the same issue may find help with the following.
I reached out to the Adobe Suppot directly and they were able to help me. Basically, you just have to click on the checkmark next to the "RotoBezir" label that is visible when you draw a shape. When turned off, you can draw shapes the old way. There was also a very detailed answer regarding the chance I recieved from them:
Thank you for reaching out to Adobe, It seems the session was interrupted, I would like to provide you with a more comprehensive overview of the process of creating points in Adobe After Effects, particularly focusing on the distinction between corner points and smooth points, as well as the implications of tension settings for path control.
When you initiate the creation of new points within your project, you have the option to define these points as either corner points or smooth points. This is accomplished by simply clicking on the desired location in your composition. A corner point is characterized by a tension setting of 100%, which means that it creates a sharp angle in the path, resulting in a more defined change in direction. This is particularly useful when you want to create geometric shapes or emphasize distinct edges within your design.
Conversely, if you click again on the same point, it will be converted into a smooth point, which has a tension setting of 33%. Smooth points allow for a more gradual transition between segments of the path, creating curves that flow seamlessly. This feature is essential for achieving organic shapes and fluid motion in your animations.
By utilizing these options, you can exercise greater control over the overall shape and movement of your paths, tailoring them to fit your creative vision more precisely. Understanding how to manipulate these point types effectively can significantly enhance the quality and dynamism of your projects.
AdChoices