Publisher Deep Silver and developer Warhorse Studios have added a punishing new hardcore mode to Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, transforming the medieval RPG into a true test of survival skills.
Released on April 15, the hardcore mode removes several navigation aids that players typically rely on. Players will no longer see Henry’s location permanently marked on the map, the compass is completely disabled, and fast travel has been eliminated, forcing complete self-navigation through the game’s recreation of 15th century Bohemia.
Adding to the challenge, players must select at least three permanent negative traits at the start of their hardcore playthrough. These include options like Bad Back, which reduces carrying capacity; Somnambulant, causing Henry to sleepwalk and wake up in random locations; or Hangry Henry, intensifying the character’s need for regular meals.
Karel Kolmann, senior game designer at Warhorse Studios, explained the evolution from the original game’s hardcore mode.
“In the first game’s Hardcore Mode, we did things like disabling your map position and removing the compass, but we’ve gone further this time,” he added. “We’ve added the option to ask different NPCs about your location in the world, which is something more immersive. You can run into travellers on the road and ask for directions”.
The developer emphasized that the mode focuses on immersion rather than simply increasing difficulty.
Alongside the hardcore mode, Warhorse has released the Gallant Huntsman Kit as standalone DLC. Previously available only to Gold Edition owners, this cosmetic and equipment pack includes themed hunting gear:
- St. Hubert hat: Hunting cap based on the patron saint of hunters
- Master huntsman’s hood: Pearl-adorned hood for weather protection
- Nimrod coat: Hunting attire based on the legendary hunter
- Master huntsman’s hose: Specialized trousers for hunters
- Master huntsman’s gloves: Leather gloves for weapon handling
- Master huntsman’s boots: Leather footwear designed for forest navigation
- Artemis’ crossbow: A distinctive ranged weapon for hunting
- Hunting bolt: 30 specialized bolts for the Artemis crossbow
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II launched earlier this year and is available on PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, and Xbox Series X|S in Standard, Gold, and Collector’s Editions.
