Various methods for implementation by a computer that executes a video game. A first method comprises obtaining a desired direction of motion of a playing character that is in cover mode and on a cover path; and moving the character along the cover path in case the desired direction of motion is within a given range of directions, the character being kept in cover mode. A second method comprises determining a distance of the character to a cover path associated with a particular game object; determining the character's angle of approach relative to the game object; and responsive to receipt of a command to invoke cover mode, causing the character to enter cover mode in case a plurality of conditions is satisfied including a first condition that depends on the distance of the character to the cover path and a second condition that depends on the character's angle of approach.