Hyper Light Breaker: Mastering Lock-On Targeting

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• How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker

• When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

Hyper Light Breaker is a game shrouded in mystery, with many mechanics left for players to discover and master. Among these, the lock-on system stands out as a crucial element for effective combat. Understanding how to use this targeting mechanic can significantly enhance your gameplay, especially in the game's challenging Synthwave roguelite environment.

This guide delves into the nuances of targeting enemies in Hyper Light Breaker and provides strategic advice on when to employ the lock-on feature versus sticking with the default free camera mode.

How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker

To effectively target an enemy in Hyper Light Breaker, align your view with your desired target and press the right analog stick (R3) on your controller. The game will automatically identify the correct enemy, even amidst a crowd, by zooming in slightly and displaying a reticle around the target.

You don't need a direct line of sight to lock onto an enemy; as long as they're visible on your screen and within range, you can initiate a lock-on. Once locked, your character's movement adjusts to circle the target while the camera remains focused on them. Be mindful that fast-moving enemies can cause rapid camera shifts, potentially altering your movement direction mid-action.

To switch targets while locked on, simply move the right analog stick left or right. The reticle will jump to the nearest enemy within range. To return to the default third-person camera mode, press the right analog stick again. This control can be customized in the settings menu, and the lock-on will automatically disengage if you move too far from your target.

When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?

The lock-on feature is advantageous in specific scenarios but can be a hindrance in others. Use it during one-on-one battles, especially against bosses or tough enemies with yellow health bars, but only after clearing out other threats.

Locking on focuses your camera on a single enemy, leaving you vulnerable to attacks from other directions. For most of the game, especially when facing multiple or weaker foes, the free camera mode is more beneficial, allowing you greater awareness and flexibility to respond to surrounding threats.

When confronting a mini-boss or boss, lock on to keep them centered on your screen once you've eliminated all minor enemies. If additional enemies appear, disengage the lock-on to handle them, then re-lock onto the boss to finish them off.

A practical example is during an Extraction event, where you'll face waves of regular enemies before a mini-boss. Maintain free cam until you've cleared the regular enemies, then lock onto the mini-boss to focus your efforts without distractions.