TL;DR
- Enable developer mode in Steam launch options with -devmode parameter
- Use console command wh_sys_GameModeSelecting = 1 to activate hidden hardcore mode
- Select minimum three negative perks during character creation to proceed
- Prepare for significantly reduced UI assistance and enhanced difficulty
- Always backup saves and expect potential bugs in early access version
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Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 developers originally scheduled the hardcore mode implementation for an April 2025 update. However, dedicated community members discovered that the complete hardcore framework already exists within the current game build, simply awaiting activation through specific console commands. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for accessing this challenging game mode ahead of schedule, while emphasizing that players should anticipate technical issues since this represents an unfinished development version.
Hardcore mode fundamentally transforms the gaming experience by removing numerous quality-of-life features that standard gameplay provides. This creates a more authentic medieval simulation where players must rely on their own observational skills and strategic thinking rather than game-assisted mechanics. The mode aligns with Warhorse Studios’ commitment to historical accuracy and immersive role-playing experiences.
How to unlock hardcore mode using console in KCD2
Begin by accessing your Steam library interface and performing a right-click action on Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 within your games list. Navigate to Properties and locate the Launch Options field, where you should input -devmode exactly as specified. This parameter enables the developer console functionality necessary for accessing hidden game features.
Initiate the game normally and once the main menu loads, press the tilde (~) key to activate the developer console interface. Carefully copy and execute the following critical command string:
wh_sys_GameModeSelecting = 1
Following command execution, select the New Game option from the main menu. You should now observe the previously inaccessible choice between Standard gameplay and Hardcore mode options. During the subsequent character configuration screen, players must allocate at least three negative perk selections or progression will be blocked entirely. You retain the flexibility to choose additional negative traits beyond the minimum requirement based on your preferred difficulty level. Upon completing this configuration, your hardcore adventure commences from the game’s initial sequence. Important reminder: you must re-enter this console command whenever loading previously saved hardcore gameplay sessions.
As the official description indicates, hardcore mode substantially reduces visual assistance during combat encounters. Specifically, you will no longer see targeting reticles, directional block indicators, or attack timing popup notifications. Map navigation becomes significantly more challenging without positional markers and detailed waypoint systems.
Combat proficiency requires developing new muscle memory and observational techniques. Focus on studying enemy body language and weapon positioning rather than relying on interface cues. For navigation, learn to use landmark recognition and sun positioning for orientation, similar to authentic medieval travel methods. When selecting negative perks, consider choosing those that complement your planned character build rather than randomly selecting disadvantages.
Expert players recommend selecting negative perks that create interesting role-playing challenges rather than simply increasing difficulty. For example, choosing “Nightmares” can enhance immersion, while “Claustrophobia” encourages strategic outdoor combat approaches. Always maintain multiple manual saves at critical progression points to mitigate potential game-breaking bugs.
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Players frequently encounter save corruption issues when using early access hardcore mode. Implement a disciplined save rotation system, maintaining at least three sequential manual saves. If the console command fails to activate hardcore mode, verify that -devmode includes the hyphen and that you’re using the correct case sensitivity.
Common problems include quest progression blockers and inconsistent perk effects. Before reporting bugs, attempt to reload previous saves and verify console command syntax. The development team anticipates resolving these issues with the official hardcore mode release, but community testing through this early access method provides valuable development feedback.
Action Checklist
- Add -devmode to Steam launch options
- Launch game and open console with ~ key
- Execute wh_sys_GameModeSelecting = 1 command
- Start new game and select hardcore mode
- Select minimum three negative perks during creation
- Create multiple manual saves as backup protection
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » How to unlock hardcore mode with console command in KCD2. How to enable and play hardcore mode before update in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Complete guide to enabling Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 hardcore mode early with console commands and expert tips