Quick Links
Hyper Light Breaker's enigmatic gameplay leaves many mechanics shrouded in mystery, forcing players to gradually uncover optimal strategies. A key element is the lock-on system, Hyper Light Breaker's targeting mechanic. While locking onto a target offers focused combat, it shouldn't be your default setting. In fact, it's most effective in specific one-on-one scenarios. This guide explains enemy targeting and offers advice on when to lock-on versus using the free camera mode in this synthwave roguelite.
How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker
To target an enemy, center your view on them and press the right analog stick (R3). The game usually identifies the correct target unless it's surrounded by others. Your view will zoom slightly, and a reticle will appear around your target.
Line of sight isn't required. As long as the enemy is visible on-screen and within targeting range, you can lock on.
Locking on alters character movement while the camera tracks your target. Because the camera remains locked, your movements tend to circle the target. Fast-moving enemies can quickly shift the camera perspective, potentially altering your input direction during movement.
To switch targets while locked on, move the right analog stick left or right. The reticle automatically jumps to the nearest enemy within range.
Press the right analog stick again to cancel the lock-on and return to the default third-person camera. This can be customized in the settings menu. The lock-on also automatically cancels if you move too far from your target.
When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?
Locking on excels in one-on-one fights, such as against bosses or strong (yellow health bar) enemies—but only after eliminating other mobs.
The exclusive camera focus on one target leaves you vulnerable to attacks from enemies in your blind spots, making group combat significantly harder.
Free cam is generally more useful. When facing multiple enemies or weaker enemies easily dispatched, locking on offers no real advantage; it can hinder your ability to see and react to surrounding enemies.
However, against mini-bosses or bosses, after clearing other enemies, locking on keeps the boss centered. Cancel the lock-on if more enemies appear, then re-engage once the boss is alone.
For example, during Extraction, you face waves of regular enemies followed by a mini-boss. The mini-boss might spawn while other enemies are still active. Here, free cam is preferable until all regular enemies are eliminated, then lock on to focus the mini-boss.
