Quick Links

• How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker

• When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

Hyper Light Breaker's enigmatic gameplay leaves many mechanics shrouded in mystery, forcing players to learn through experimentation. Mastering the lock-on system, the game's targeting mechanic, is crucial for effective combat. While locking onto a target provides focused combat, it's not always the optimal strategy. This guide explains how to use the lock-on and when to utilize it versus the default free camera mode.

How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker

To lock onto an enemy, simply center your view on your target and press the right analog stick (R3). The game will automatically select the closest target, unless it's surrounded by others. The camera 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 range, you can lock on.

Locking on alters character movement and camera control. The camera remains fixed on your target, causing your movement to circle them. Fast-moving enemies can make the camera swing wildly, potentially disrupting your input commands.

To switch targets while locked on, use the right analog stick to select an adjacent enemy within range.

To cancel the lock-on and return to the free camera, press the right analog stick again. This control can be customized in the settings menu. The lock-on will also automatically disengage if you move too far from your target.

When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

While useful in certain situations, the lock-on feature has limitations. It excels in one-on-one encounters, such as boss fights or against strong (yellow health bar) enemies—but only after eliminating other threats.

The locked camera focuses solely on your target, leaving you vulnerable to attacks from enemies outside your immediate view. Managing groups of enemies becomes significantly more challenging.

For most situations, the free camera offers greater situational awareness. When facing multiple weaker enemies, or those easily dispatched, there's little benefit to locking on. It can hinder your ability to react to surrounding enemies.

Against mini-bosses or bosses, after clearing weaker enemies, locking on keeps your target centered for focused attacks. Release the lock-on if other enemies appear, then re-engage once the boss is isolated.

For example, during Extraction, you'll face waves of regular enemies followed by a mini-boss. The mini-boss might spawn while other enemies are still present. In this case, maintain the free camera until all weaker enemies are eliminated, then lock onto the mini-boss for a focused assault.