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

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

Author : Alexander Mar 21,2025

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

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

These negative perks add a layer of realistic difficulty by introducing flaws to Henry’s character, hindering his daily life and forcing players to adapt. It's a perfect fit for players who enjoy a more flawed, challenging protagonist.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

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?

Unlike talents, negative perks actively worsen aspects of Henry's life. The mod allows you to toggle these perks on and off using hotkeys, customizable in the settings.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Each perk has varying impacts; some are minor inconveniences, while others drastically alter gameplay. Enabling all perks simultaneously creates an immensely challenging experience, forcing players to find creative solutions to everyday problems.

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 results in inability to run or ride, reduced movement/attack/dodge speed, and increased stamina consumption for attacks. Solutions include using a horse or increasing carrying capacity through strength and perks like Pack Mule, Well-Built, and Strong as a Bull. Early game strategies involve minimal carrying or intentional overloading for faster strength gains.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Heavy-Footed

Accelerates footwear wear and increases noise levels. This impacts stealth gameplay, requiring careful clothing choices. Solutions involve acquiring and using tailor kits, improving Craftsmanship skills, and potentially even embracing naked sneaking.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Numbskull

Reduces experience gained from all sources, slowing leveling. Solutions involve focusing on quests, reading, training, and prioritizing essential skills.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Somnambulant

Significantly reduces stamina and recovery speed. Combat becomes far more challenging. Riding a horse becomes a strategic advantage to conserve energy.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Hangry Henry

Increases hunger frequency and reduces satiation. Reduces Speech, Charisma, and Intimidation by 5 points when hungry. Requires diligent food management, hunting, smoking/drying supplies, and mindful eating habits.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Sweaty

Increases rate of dirt accumulation and doubles the detection range of body odor. Impacts stealth and social interactions. Requires frequent washing and careful clothing choices.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Picky Eater

Food spoils 25% faster. Requires regular food management and discarding spoiled items to avoid poisoning.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Bashful

Reduces Speech skill experience gain, hindering peaceful quest completion. Solutions involve improving Speech skill, using clothing to influence perception, or bribery.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Punchable Face

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

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Menace

Serious crimes result in permanent brand, leading to execution upon further serious offenses. Primarily impacts roleplaying aspects.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Survival Strategies with Negative Perks in Kingdom Come 2

Prioritize perks that counter negative effects. Manage stamina carefully, avoid overeating, and acquire good equipment. Earn money to maintain supplies and avoid dialogue penalties. For thieves, careful clothing and cleanliness are crucial. A horse is highly beneficial for carrying capacity and stamina issues.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: 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 increased challenge and immersion significantly boosts the sense of accomplishment.

Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2Image: ensigame.com

The Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 promises a more intense and rewarding experience. Share your stories and strategies in the comments!