Hardcore mode

Video game concept

Includes a mode where additional level of simulation, limitations, etc. are added. Often also making things matter that didn't before and making earlier somewhat trivially removed ailments harder to get rid of.

35
games
12
platforms

Alternate name: Ironman mode

This is mainly for an optional "hardcore" mode that is separate of chosen game difficulty.

Examples:
* Permanent death
* Injuries or even plain damage can only be healed at a doctor and possibly not even that well there
* Addiction can't be cured instantly
* Hunger & thirst is added
* Fast travel is disabled or limited
* Things that normally are weightless now actually have it (e.g. ammunition).
* Experience is limited or benefits of levelling are reduced.
* Character level is capped (lower)
* Usable items are more scarce

If only one or very few things are changed (unless it's a significant one, like permadeath) then it might not be worth tagging the game with this.

Popular tags

actionrpg diablo dungeoncrawler hackandslash lootemup mud openworldsurvivalcrafting roguelike terraria torchlight-series

Parent group

Extra game modes

Games by year

9496980002040608101214161820 82460

The first Hardcore mode video game was released on September 1994.

Blizzard, Farsky Interactive and Balanced Alternative Techniques ry published most of these games.

Platforms

Windows 14
Linux 7
Mac OS X 3
Mac OS Classic 2
Pandora 2
Xbox Series X 1
Internet Only 1
X360 1
Switch 1
PS4 1
PS5 1
Xbox One 1