How to make a smooth camera follow algorithm?

Question

I am making a game with LibGDX (Java).

I need the camera to follow a fast moving character. The easiest way to do it is to just write this:

this.getCamera().position.set(obj.x, obj.y, 0);

But, is there any algorithm to make this more smooth? Like when camera is not that strict, and is always a bit late: character goes quick right, camera follows with slight delay, or if you suddenly appeared somewhere far, camera doesn't teleport instantly but travels at a top speed to you when it comes closer it slows down a bit and finds you again.

Is there any libgdx libs that do that or anyone had this experience?

Answer 1

Try something simple like lerping a tenth of the distance. It works surprisingly well.

float lerp = 0.1f;
Vector3 position = this.getCamera().position;
position.x += (Obj.x - position.x) * lerp * deltaTime;
position.y += (Obj.y - position.y) * lerp * deltaTime;

Answer 2

Take a look at Aurelion Ribon's Java Universal Tween Engine. This performs interpolation and has several easing equations that I think would get you what you are looking for. It also has other advanced features like waypointing and chaining certain actions together for other interesting effects.

Your game logic could check to see if the character is moving quickly or has a step change in terms of position. In response to this, turn your current camera position over to the tween engine and let it take over -- smoothly zooming to the character's current position.