Hardcore Mode

Hardcore mode is an optional gameplay mode in Fallout: New Vegas which introduces new, challenging aspects of survival into the game. In this mode, stimpaks heal over time, RadAway removes radiation over time, ammunition has weight, and the Courier must stay hydrated, eat periodically, and have a regular sleep cycle. Food only staves off hunger and heals you over time. To restore critically damaged limbs, you must use a doctor's bag, hydra, or visit an actual doctor. Sleeping does not heal health points or crippled limbs, unless it is in an owned bed. In addition, recruited companions can die permanently, whereas they are only rendered unconscious in casual mode.

Hardcore mode is not recommended for a new player; being familiar with the weapons, skills, and perks of the game can greatly enhance one's survivability and enjoyment of the rigors of Hardcore mode.

For playing the main quest line from start to finish in Hardcore mode, you get the Hardcore achievement / trophy.

Hardcore mode can be toggled off at any time through the options menu. Once turned off, it can be turned back on, although keep in mind that the player will be unable to receive the achievement. The mode is initially available just before you leave Doc Mitchell's house for the first time and the player is given the achievement/trophy for keeping hardcore on continuously from this point until completing the main quest line.

Status Effects

 * The hours are for game time; the seconds for real time.

Bugs

 * The cause is still unknown, but sometimes one or more of the Hardcore needs (such as H20, FOD, SLP) will disappear, and will not even indicate a 0 integer. But you can fix it by going into the options then turning hardcore off/on again and that will reset all of your needs to 0. But this seems to be a redundant problem once it happens the first time, and starts upon loading a save. A way to fix it is to make a backup save, and delete the old file.
 * Another fix for the above bug is to use an item that increases/decreases the meter of said needs (i.e. of 0 integer is missing in SLP then take a nap and the integer will reset to 0).
 * If the above tips do not work the first time, you may need to initiate them more than once.
 * the unpatched version of the game sometimes glitches and stops players from leveling up though still registering experience.
 * If you transfer your save game to a new computer and continue playing, the Hardcore achievement may not register upon completing the game, even if Hardcore mode was never turned off.


 * The sleep meter will not go below 2.
 * Hardcore meters (H2O/Food/Sleep) may sometimes stop increasing in "real time." Sleeping, waiting, or fast traveling will still cause them to increase, though. Unknown cause.

See also:

 * Tough Guy (Fallout Tactics)