Diablo 4 Softcore or Hardcore mode? All differences and features explained

Find out whether you should pick Softcore or Hardcore mode in Diablo 4 in this guide, as we go over all of the differences and features that separate the two.

Harry Boulton

02nd Jun 2023 16:38

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You might be struggling to figure out whether to pick Softcore or Hardcore mode in Diablo 4, as the differences can have quite a severe impact on how you play the game.

What is the difference between Softcore and Hardcore mode in Diablo 4?

Screenshot of combat with Ghouls in Diablo 4

The main difference between Softcore and Hardcore mode in Diablo 4 is that Hardcore offers a permadeath experience, whereas Softcore will allow you to continue without dying.

What this means in essence is that dying with Hardcore mode enabled will 'delete' your character, meaning that you will have to start all over again with a new character from the beginning.

While this might sound horrifying to some players, others do relish in the challenge that it brings, and thrive under the innate pressure to stay alive. It certainly lives up to its name and will have you on the edge of your seat every time you enter a combat encounter.

Should you choose Softcore or Hardcore mode in Diablo 4?

Screenshot of combat in the Beaconing Labyrinth in Diablo 4

You should definitely choose the Softcore mode if you're a new or casual player in Diablo 4 then we think to avoid any unnecessary challenge or pain to your playthrough. As your playtime can easily reach over 100 hours, the last thing that any standard player will want is to lose hours of progress to a simple death.

Don't presume that you won't be punished for dying in Softcore mode though, as you will lose a small amount of aspects like Gold and experience when you kick the bucket, so the challenge and punishment for failure is still there.

However, Hardcore might be the right choice for seasoned players who are wanting to add extra spice to a playthrough. If you feel like you've seen it all in the depths of hell, then putting your skills to the test with permadeath can really invigorate each battle.

You might want to still leave this for a second or side playthrough, however, as there is so much to enjoy and see within Diablo 4 that you won't want to miss out on, as shown within our excellent review.

So, that's everything you need to know about the Softcore and Hardcore modes in Diablo 4, with a suggestion for which you should pick if you're at a crossroads.

About The Author

Harry Boulton

Harry is a Guides Writer at GGRecon, having completed a Masters of Research degree in Film Studies. Previously a freelance writer for PCGamesN, The Loadout, and Red Bull Gaming, he loves playing a wide variety of games from the Souls series to JRPGs, Counter-Strike, and EA FC. When not playing or writing about games and hardware, you're likely to find him watching football or listening to Madonna and Kate Bush.

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