Hardcore Mode

 is an optional gameplay mode in Fallout: New Vegas that increases the challenge of the game. In this mode stimpaks heal over time, Rad-Away removes radiation over time, ammunition has weight, dehydration is a constant concern, you must have regular sleep cycles, food doesn't heal health, instead you must eat to survive, and to heal limbs you must use a medical brace or a doctors bag.

For beating the whole game from start to finish in Hardcore mode, the players get the Hardcore achievement/trophy.

You may toggle Hardcore Mode at any time via the options menu, however in order to earn the Hardcore achievment you must play the entire game, from the point you are first prompted until the endgame sequence without ever turning it off.