First Look at Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2’s New Hardcore Mode

Overview of Upcoming Hardcore Mode

Warhorse Studios has revealed an exciting preview of the Hardcore mode for fans of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2.
This mode will feature a streamlined user interface, eliminate fast travel, and require players to select three out of ten permanent negative perks.
Hardcore mode is set to launch in March, alongside a seasonal update for the game.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has captivated players since its recent release by Warhorse Studios, showcasing a wealth of new gameplay features. During a recent livestream, developers shared insights into the highly-anticipated Hardcore mode—an addition that promises to challenge even the most seasoned gamers. As the studio prepares for further content updates and downloadable content (DLC), fans are eager to learn more about what awaits in this medieval RPG.

Exploring the New Hardcore Mode

Before the game officially launched, Warhorse Studios mapped out an ambitious roadmap for post-release support, confirming multiple DLC expansions and free updates. In a recent livestream event on February 27, the studio provided a detailed look at the upcoming Hardcore mode, which will be available at no additional cost as part of a Spring update. According to the developers, this update is expected to roll out in March.

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Screenshot 1

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Screenshot 2

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Screenshot 3

The Hardcore mode sets itself apart by adopting a minimalist UI, eliminating all player markers on the map and omitting cardinal directions on the compass. Fast travel options will not be available, compelling players to navigate solely based on their instincts and map skills. To intensify the challenge, participants must select three negative perks from a pool of ten, enhancing the game’s difficulty significantly. This approach to gameplay was inspired by the original game’s Hardcore mode but introduces even more complexity.

Negative Perks Overview

Perk	Description
Bad Luck	Decreased carrying capacity; potential for back strain when picking herbs.
Heavy-Footed	Increased noise while moving and faster wear of shoes.
Numbskull	Experience gain is slowed by 20%.
Sleepwalking	Faster energy loss and chance of sleepwalking during sleep.
Hangry Henry	Increased negative effects from hunger; food is less effective and digestion is faster.
Sweaty	Increased dirt accumulation and visibility to others from smell.
Picky Eater	Food spoils faster, and less yield when gutting animals.
Bashful	Inability to ask for directions or engage in certain social interactions, slowing down speech skill gain.
Punchable Face	Encounters with travelers become more dangerous; enemies are more aggressive.
Menace	Permanently branded for crimes and harsh penalties upon catching new offenses.

Furthermore, the livestream introduced exciting customization options that players can expect in upcoming free updates. Fans will soon have the ability to modify Henry’s appearance with various hairstyles and beard styles, and a new buff called “Freshly Trimmed”will temporarily enhance his Charisma after a grooming session.

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