I’m searching for games that are specifically designed with Hardcore mode as a core feature. Many games just tack on Hardcore as an extra challenge—I’m looking at you, World of Warcraft and Path of Exile—but I’d love to find one that is truly built from the ground up with Hardcore play in mind. I’m thinking along the lines of no one-hit kills, having good information sources for upcoming combat (like NPCs that hint at the dangers of upcoming bosses), preferably single-player or offline to avoid connectivity issues (although I really appreciate great disconnect handling, like in PoE 2). Additionally, I want less screen clutter and more manageable attack patterns. Any recommendations?
7 Answers
Check out Project Zomboid! It’s all about survival, and the whole premise is built around the idea of how you died. It’s challenging, but in a great way.
Honestly, that’s probably your best bet! The entire game is built around that concept.
Valheim is a great shout for Hardcore gamers! It was designed with that in mind right from the start, though it’s more officially recognized as Hardcore now. The combat gets intense, and you really have to think strategically.
I bought Valheim ages ago, but didn’t dive in much. How’s the combat in Hardcore mode? Am I supposed to kite enemies or run when my health is low? What tips do you have for gearing up before a big fight?
Madness: Project Nexus has a unique difficulty called ‘madness’ where everything’s health is reduced, introducing new boss attacks. It’s challenging and a ton of fun!
You might want to check out Kingdom Come: Deliverance if you’re up for it. The combat is tough, but playing in Hardcore mode is meant to be the real experience of the game!
You could also try Fallout 4 in Hardcore mode. It reduces health for both you and enemies, limits your carry weight, and removes fast travel. You actually have to engage with the world and make the most of every encounter—it really makes you strategize for each mission!
Metro has a Ranger Mode that ramps up the difficulty significantly. It’s intense and great if you want a Hardcore experience, though I usually keep it on normal because of how tough it gets!
You might want to explore the Roguelike genre, which is filled with games that embrace the idea of dying and coming back stronger. But I understand you’re looking for something a bit different, like a game where you can ‘Run Away’ rather than fighting to the death. Something that allows you to learn and escape without facing the penalty of full death.
Totally get what you’re saying! It would be awesome to have a mechanism like that. In Hades, for example, if you could use a portal to escape a tough room without a penalty, that’d change the game completely.
Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll definitely check it out.