It depends on how you make the showerhead / flow reducer. You could have one with a pressure reducer which will reduce pressure and flow and results in both less flow and force, but others just use smaller holes for a smaller outlet cross section, which trades flow for velocity. If the increased velocity is focused on the same or smaller area on your skin, then you'll feel an increased spot pressure compared to a lower velocity stream.

That's to say, plenty of low flow shower heads have focused streams, but they're generally too forceful and feel like needles. But there are ones in the middle that trade flow for velocity which makes it feel like the pressure is higher while using less water.