how to zoom camera in and out godot

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

05-02-2025

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Godot Engine offers several ways to control your camera's zoom, allowing you to create dynamic and engaging gameplay experiences. This guide will cover the most common and efficient methods, from simple scaling to more sophisticated approaches using camera projection. Let's dive in!

Method 1: Scaling the Camera Node

This is the simplest method, ideal for quick prototyping or situations where precise perspective control isn't crucial. We'll directly manipulate the camera's scale property.

Implementing Zoom with Scaling

1. Access your Camera Node: In your Godot scene, locate your Camera2D or Camera node.

2. Add a Script: Attach a script (GDScript is recommended) to your camera node.

3. Implement Zoom Logic: Use the scale property to control zoom. A scale of Vector2(1, 1) represents 100% zoom. Increasing the values zooms in, while decreasing zooms out.

extends Camera2D

func _process(delta):
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_in"):
        scale += Vector2(0.1, 0.1) # Adjust 0.1 for zoom speed
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_out"):
        scale -= Vector2(0.1, 0.1)
        scale = max(scale, Vector2(0.1, 0.1)) # Prevent zooming out too far

Remember to define your "zoom_in" and "zoom_out" actions in the Input Map.

This method is straightforward but has limitations. It scales the entire camera view, potentially distorting the aspect ratio.

Method 2: Modifying the Camera's Zoom Property (Camera2D)

For Camera2D nodes, Godot provides a dedicated zoom property for smoother, aspect ratio-preserving zoom.

Implementing Zoom with the zoom Property

1. Access your Camera2D Node: Find your Camera2D node in the scene.

2. Attach a Script: Add a script (GDScript) to the Camera2D node.

3. Implement Zoom Logic: This method directly manipulates the zoom property, a Vector2.

extends Camera2D

export var zoom_speed = 0.1 # Expose for easy adjustment in the editor

func _process(delta):
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_in"):
        zoom += Vector2(zoom_speed, zoom_speed)
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_out"):
        zoom -= Vector2(zoom_speed, zoom_speed)
        zoom = max(zoom, Vector2(0.1, 0.1)) # Prevent extreme zoom out

This approach is preferred over simple scaling as it maintains the aspect ratio. The export keyword makes zoom_speed adjustable in the Godot editor.

Method 3: Using Camera Projection (for 3D Cameras)

For 3D cameras (Camera node), controlling zoom involves adjusting the field of view (FOV). A smaller FOV zooms in, while a larger FOV zooms out.

Implementing Zoom with FOV

1. Access your Camera Node: Locate your Camera node.

2. Attach a Script: Add a script to your Camera node.

3. Implement Zoom Logic: Manipulate the fov property.

extends Camera

export var zoom_speed = 1.0 # Adjust for desired zoom rate

func _process(delta):
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_in"):
        fov -= zoom_speed * delta # Adjust smoothly over time
        fov = clamp(fov, 1, 179) # Keep FOV within reasonable bounds
    if Input.is_action_pressed("zoom_out"):
        fov += zoom_speed * delta
        fov = clamp(fov, 1, 179)

This method uses clamp to prevent the FOV from going outside a realistic range. The delta ensures smooth zooming regardless of frame rate.

Choosing the Right Method

• Scaling (Method 1): Quick and easy, but potentially distorts aspect ratio. Suitable for simple games or prototypes.

• Camera2D zoom (Method 2): Preferred for 2D games, maintains aspect ratio, and offers better control.

• Camera fov (Method 3): Essential for 3D games, provides realistic zoom by changing perspective.

Remember to adapt the input actions ("zoom_in", "zoom_out") and zoom speeds to your specific game's needs. Experiment and find the best approach for your project!