Hyper Light Breaker: Mastering Lock-On Targeting

Quick Links

• How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker
• When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

Hyper Light Breaker embraces a minimalist design, leaving many mechanics subtly embedded in gameplay rather than explicitly explained. One of the most impactful yet under-the-radar systems is enemy targeting—specifically, how and when to use the lock-on mechanic effectively. Understanding this feature can significantly improve combat efficiency, survivability, and overall performance in this synthwave-inspired roguelite.

How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker

To lock onto an enemy, simply center your view on the target and press the right analog stick (R3) on your controller. The game will automatically detect the closest valid enemy within range—even if it's partially obscured—as long as it’s visible on-screen. Upon successful targeting, the camera zooms in slightly, and a reticle appears around the selected foe.

No direct line of sight is required—just screen visibility and proximity. Once locked on, your character’s movement adapts: the camera centers on the target, causing your movement to orbit around them. Be mindful—fast-moving enemies can shift the camera angle rapidly, potentially altering the direction of your inputs mid-action.

Switching targets is effortless: while locked on, move the right analog stick left or right to cycle to the nearest enemy adjacent to your current target (if within range). To disengage and return to free camera mode, press R3 again—this input is customizable in the settings menu. Lock-on also breaks automatically if you move too far from the target.

When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

Lock-on shines in specific scenarios but becomes a liability in others. Use it strategically—not habitually.

Best Situations for Lock-On:

• One-on-one encounters, especially against bosses or elite enemies marked with yellow health bars.
• After clearing all surrounding enemies to eliminate distractions and focus damage efficiently.

In these moments, lock-on keeps your target centered, simplifying dodges, parries, and precision strikes. However, the fixed camera hides your surroundings—making you vulnerable to off-screen threats.

Stick With Free Cam When:

• Fighting multiple enemies at once.
• Clearing waves of weak mobs that die quickly.
• Navigating chaotic or tightly packed combat zones.

Free camera mode gives full situational awareness, letting you track threats, reposition dynamically, and react faster. For example, during Extraction events—where waves of standard enemies precede a mini-boss—it's best to stay in free cam until all regular enemies are eliminated. Only then should you lock onto the mini-boss for focused takedowns.

Smart targeting isn’t just about mechanics—it’s about adapting in real time. Master when to lock on, and when to let the camera flow freely, and you’ll dominate every run.