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

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2's difficulty surpasses most RPGs, not through inflated enemy stats, but through realistic, engaging mechanics. However, for those seeking an even greater challenge, a Hardcore Mode is launching in April. This mode introduces negative perks—a unique twist adding realistic obstacles.

These negative perks hinder Henry's daily life, forcing adaptation and rewarding players who relish flawed characters. A Hardcore Mode mod is currently available, previewing many planned features.

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?

Unlike talents, negative perks actively worsen aspects of Henry's life. The mod lets you toggle them on/off via hotkeys, customizable in the settings. Each perk's impact varies—some minor, others game-changing. Enabling all simultaneously creates a significantly more challenging playthrough.

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 carrying capacity. Overloading prevents running, riding, and slows movement, attack, and dodge speeds, increasing stamina consumption. Solutions include using a horse or increasing strength and relevant perks (Pack Mule, Well-Built, Strong as a Bull).

Heavy-Footed

Accelerates footwear wear and increases noise. This impacts stealth, requiring careful clothing choices. Counter this by utilizing tailor kits, improving Craftsmanship skills, and strategically choosing clothing.

Numbskull

Reduces experience gained from all sources, slowing leveling. Mitigation involves completing quests, reading books, training, and focusing on essential skills.

Somnambulant

Dramatically reduces stamina and recovery speed. Combat and chases become much harder. Riding a horse becomes a strategic advantage, and leveling stamina-reducing skills is crucial.

Hangry Henry

Increases hunger frequency and reduces food satisfaction. Hunger also decreases Speech, Charisma, and Intimidation by 5 points. Requires diligent food management, hunting, and preserving food.

Sweaty

Increases dirt accumulation and doubles the smell radius, hindering stealth and diplomacy. Regular washing and soap are essential, as are appropriate clothing choices for interactions.

Picky Eater

Food spoils 25% faster. Requires constant food management, discarding spoiled items to avoid poisoning. Smoking and drying food helps, but isn't a complete solution.

Bashful

Reduces Speech skill experience gain, hindering peaceful quest completion. Mitigation involves leveling Speech, utilizing appropriate clothing to influence perception, or bribing NPCs.

Punchable Face

Reduces the delay between enemy attacks, increasing combat difficulty. Requires improved combat skills and superior equipment to compensate.

Menace

A serious crime brand remains permanently. Another serious crime results in execution (though saves can be loaded). The impact is primarily roleplaying-focused.

Survival Strategies with Negative Perks in Kingdom Come 2

Prioritize perks negating negative perk effects. Manage stamina carefully, avoiding additional debuffs. Budget effectively for food, clothing, and bribes. A horse is highly beneficial. Adapt strategies for thievery and combat.

Realistic Gaming Experience in Kingdom Come 2

The mod enhances realism beyond negative perks. Features like map markers, fast travel, and HUD elements are removed. This creates a more immersive and challenging experience.

Hardcore Mode intensifies survival, increasing the sense of accomplishment. The mod offers a challenging preview of the official mode's features.