Hyper Light Breaker: How To Lock-On Target

This guide explains the lock-on targeting system in Hyper Light Breaker, a crucial mechanic often left unexplained. While useful, it's not always the best approach.

How to Target Enemies:

Center your view on the enemy and press the right analog stick (R3). The game will automatically select the target, provided it's not obscured by other enemies. A reticle will appear, and the camera will zoom slightly. Line of sight isn't required; the enemy just needs to be visible and within range.

Locking on alters character movement, causing you to circle the target. This can be disorienting with fast-moving enemies, potentially altering your input direction as the camera shifts. To switch targets, move the right analog stick left or right. Pressing R3 again cancels the lock-on, returning to the default free camera. The lock-on also automatically disengages if you move too far from the target.

When to Lock On vs. Free Cam:

Lock-on excels in one-on-one encounters, such as boss fights or against strong (yellow health bar) enemies—but only after eliminating other threats. The focused camera leaves you vulnerable to attacks from unseen enemies.

Free cam is generally superior. Against multiple weak enemies, or when speed and situational awareness are paramount, lock-on hinders your ability to react.

Use lock-on strategically against mini-bosses or bosses after clearing the area of smaller enemies. If additional enemies appear, disengage the lock-on, then re-engage once the coast is clear. During Extraction events, for instance, prioritize clearing regular enemies before locking onto the mini-boss for a focused assault.