Staying true to form, Diablo 4 will have two difficulties you can play on, which is something you’ve probably seen in older Diablo games. The game features a Softcore and a Hardcore mode. Each has its own meta and could change how you play. For the Open Beta starting later this week, you can have first-hand experience in how these modes work. So, should you play Softcore or Hardcore mode in Diablo 4? Read on to see which setting suits you best.
Related: Best solo and team builds for Diablo 4
Diablo 4: Softcore and hardcore mode – Explained
This all boils down to how you want to play. Both modes could offer something different and could make Diablo 4 a struggle or a walk in the park. As mentioned before, the game’s core fundamentals will change regardless of which mode you pick.
So let’s break down the key differences between the two difficulties.
Hardcore Mode: Introduced back in the early days of Diablo II. This mode is not an easy task. According to Blizzard Entertainment, this is the way Diablo 4 is to be played. As the game states, “Death is permanent. Once your character perishes, there’s no coming back”. This means everything is gone, from your gear to your progress. If your character takes a fatal hit, you’ll need to restart with a new hero.
Softcore Mode: If you want an experience focusing on the story, playing on this difficulty could be for you. When you die, you have the option to respawn either at the same spot or in a nearby town. However, you shouldn’t take this lightly because it does have its penalties. You can lose money, experience points, and even degrade your armor, which gets more expensive the higher it is.
Screenshot via PC Invasion
Our Findings
Playing the Softcore mode as opposed to the Hardcore mode is probably the best way to get into Diablo 4. This way, you may learn the new mechanics and challenges significantly better in the game. After you’re comfortable with how the game works, you can start a new character on Hardcore mode to give yourself a real challenge against Lilith and her army.
Pre-orders for Diablo 4 are available now at Battle.net, Xbox Marketplace, and the PlayStation Store.
