Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2: Survival Against the Odds

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 already boasts a higher difficulty than most RPGs, achieved through realistic and engaging mechanics rather than simple stat inflation. But for those craving an even greater challenge, a Hardcore Mode is launching in April. This mode introduces a unique twist: negative perks.

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These negative perks add a layer of realistic difficulty by introducing character flaws that hinder daily life, forcing players to adapt and overcome. It’s a perfect fit for players who enjoy the challenge of playing a truly flawed character.

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A Hardcore Mode mod is currently available, offering a preview of the planned features. Let's delve into the details:

Table of Contents

• What Are Negative Perks?
• Bad Back
• Heavy-Footed
• Numbskull
• Somnambulant
• Hangry Henry
• Sweaty
• Picky Eater
• Bashful
• Punchable Face
• Menace
• Survival Strategies with Negative Perks in Kingdom Come 2
• Realistic Gaming Experience in Kingdom Come 2

What Are Negative Perks?

Negative perks are the antithesis of talents, actively worsening aspects of Henry's life. The mod allows toggling these perks on or off via hotkeys, customizable in the settings.

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Each perk has unique effects, ranging from minor inconveniences to significant gameplay alterations. Enabling all perks simultaneously creates a formidable challenge, requiring creative solutions to overcome obstacles that wouldn't exist in normal gameplay.

All Negative Perks in Kingdom Come 2:

• Bad Back
• Heavy-Footed
• Numbskull
• Somnambulant
• Hangry Henry
• Sweaty
• Picky Eater
• Bashful
• Punchable Face
• Menace

Bad Back

Reduces Henry's maximum carry weight. Overloading prevents running, riding, and significantly slows movement, attack, and dodge speeds, while increasing stamina consumption for attacks. Solutions include using a horse or strategically increasing carrying capacity through strength and perks like Pack Mule, Well-Built, and Strong as a Bull. Early game strategies might involve carrying minimal items or deliberately overloading to quickly increase strength.

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Heavy-Footed

Accelerates footwear wear and increases noise. This exacerbates the already rapid clothing deterioration, impacting stealth-focused gameplay. Solutions involve acquiring and utilizing tailor kits, improving Craftsmanship skills for cheaper repairs and bonuses, and mindful clothing choices for stealth.

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Numbskull

Reduces experience gained from all sources, slowing leveling. This necessitates a more patient and time-consuming approach to character progression. Solutions involve focusing on quests, reading, training, and prioritizing essential skills.

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Somnambulant

Significantly reduces stamina and recovery rate, impacting combat and archery. Solutions include prioritizing skills that reduce stamina consumption and utilizing horseback riding for travel.

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Hangry Henry

Increases hunger frequency and reduces satiation, decreasing Speech, Charisma, and Intimidation by 5 points when hungry. Solutions involve diligent food management, hunting, smoking/drying supplies, and careful attention to hunger levels.

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Sweaty

Increases dirt accumulation and doubles the detection range of body odor, hindering stealth and diplomacy. Solutions include frequent washing, stocking soap, and utilizing baths. Strategic clothing choices are also important.

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Picky Eater

Food spoils 25% faster. Solutions involve regular food stock rotation, discarding spoiled food, and utilizing smoking/drying methods to preserve food.

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Bashful

Reduces Speech skill experience gain, hindering peaceful quest resolutions. Solutions involve leveling Speech, using clothing to improve perception, or bribing interlocutors.

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Punchable Face

Reduces the delay between enemy attacks, increasing combat difficulty. Solutions involve improved combat skills and better equipment.

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Menace

Serious crimes result in permanent brandings, leading to execution upon subsequent serious offenses. The impact is primarily dependent on player choices and save game management.

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Survival Strategies with Negative Perks in Kingdom Come 2

Prioritize perks that mitigate negative perk effects. Focus on stamina management, avoiding additional debuffs, and managing finances for essential needs. Adapt strategies for different playstyles, such as stealth or combat.

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Acquiring a horse is highly recommended for increased mobility and carrying capacity. Consider the horse's characteristics to match your playstyle.

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Image: ensigame.com

Realistic Gaming Experience in Kingdom Come 2

The Hardcore Mode enhances realism beyond negative perks, removing map markers, fast travel, and HUD elements. This adds to the immersive challenge.

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Hardcore Mode significantly increases the challenge and immersion, rewarding players with a heightened sense of accomplishment upon completing the game. Share your experiences and strategies in the comments!