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Hyper Light Breaker is shrouded in mystery, leaving players to unravel its intricate mechanics as they progress. A key feature to master is the lock-on system, which serves as the game's primary targeting mechanic. While locking onto an enemy can enhance focus in combat, it's crucial to understand when to use this feature effectively and when to opt for the flexibility of free camera mode. This guide will walk you through targeting enemies in Hyper Light Breaker and provide strategic advice on choosing between lock-on and free cam in this immersive Synthwave roguelite.
How To Target Enemies In Hyper Light Breaker
To target an enemy in Hyper Light Breaker, first center your view on the desired target and then press the right analog stick (R3) on your controller. The game's targeting system will automatically select the nearest enemy, even within a crowd, and your view will zoom slightly with a targeting reticle appearing around your chosen foe.
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 the lock-on. When locked on, the game adjusts your character's movement, causing you to circle around the target as the camera remains centered on them. Be cautious, as fast-moving enemies can cause sudden camera shifts, potentially disorienting your movement.
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 disengage the lock-on and return to the default third-person camera, press R3 again. This control can be customized in the settings menu, and the lock-on will automatically cancel if you move too far from your target.
When Should I Lock On vs Use Free Cam?
The lock-on feature in Hyper Light Breaker is advantageous in specific scenarios but can be a hindrance in others. Use lock-on during one-on-one encounters, such as battles with bosses or elite enemies marked by yellow health bars, but only after clearing the area of lesser foes.
Locking onto a single target can leave you vulnerable to attacks from other enemies, as your camera's focus narrows, potentially missing threats in your periphery. For most of your gameplay, especially when dealing with multiple enemies or weaker foes that you can dispatch quickly, the free camera mode is preferable. It offers greater situational awareness and the ability to respond to threats from any direction.
In boss fights or against mini-bosses, lock on to keep the main target centered on your screen, but be ready to cancel the lock-on if additional enemies appear. Re-engage the lock-on once the area is clear to focus solely on defeating the boss. For instance, during Extraction sequences, you'll encounter waves of regular enemies before facing a mini-boss. It's wise to maintain free cam until all minor threats are eliminated, then lock onto the mini-boss to concentrate your efforts.
