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, RadAway 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. In addition, with Hardcore Mode turned OFF, whatever companions you have recruited will not die in battle - they will be rendered temporarily unconscious - whereas with the mode ON if they die, it will be permanent.

The Hardcore mode can be toggled on and off at any time through the options menu.

For beating the whole game from start to finish in Hardcore mode, the players get the Hardcore achievement/trophy. In order to earn the achievement, you must play through the entire game without ever turning it off.