How to use Monster Hunter Rise lock on in Target and Focus camera

Recent updates

March 6, 2026: We updated this guide as Monster Hunter Rise is included in the PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for March 2026.

The Monster Hunter Rise lock on and targeting options give you a choice between two options, a Target and Focus camera, which you can switch between for your auto aiming. There's a lot of movement to content with during the action, both for you and the monsters you're fighting, so it can be very easy to lose track of everything that's going on. There are high stakes here, so missing that crucial blow or getting knocked back can spell disaster.

However, the Monster Hunter Rise camera function and how it all works isn't clear, and it's easy to miss the fact that there's a lock on option at all. Even when you know it's there, you may still need to play around with some settings to find and use it. So, if you're having trouble with the Monster Hunter Rise lock and camera system, we can explain what's going on.

How to lock on to enemies in Monster Hunter Rise

You can access "Target" or "Focus" camera settings by bringing up the menu and selecting options. Find Camera Style which, by default, will be on Target Camera. This means you have free control over the camera with the right stick and can press the left shoulder button to either spin your camera to whatever you're fighting, or to where your character is facing if you're not fighting.

Alternatively, there's also a Focus Camera which will let you cycle through targeting all the large monsters in your area by pressing the right stick. So, if you're hunting a Great Izuchi, pressing the right stick will target that monster, and when you get close your camera will automatically lock onto it. However, this can cause some problems. Using your wirebug to flee or dodge for example is almost impossible with the Focus Camera because your aim will always be on the monster. And, if you want to stop targeting the monster, then you need to click the right stick in several times to cycle the lock on, which can be frustrating mid-fight.

If you do opt for Target Camera you can adjust the behavior of the left shoulder button with Target Camera Controls. Type 1 makes you focus on the monster, or you can press it twice to look the direction your character is facing, while Type 2 is the opposite; once for the character, twice for the monster. Type 3 removes the press twice function and pressing it once just looks at the monster.