What happens when you die in Last Epoch Hardcore mode?

Last Epoch Hardcore mode is arguably one of the most significant features for long-time fans of the ARPG genre. Many players had their first hardcore experience with the release of World of Warcraft Classic Hardcore, which took the MMO community by storm. However, it was initially Diablo 2 that popularized this mode among gamers.

Over one million Last Epoch copies were sold in its early access phase, as shared by the developer. It isn't showing any signs of slowing down, with many newcomers discovering the genre. While veteran ARPG players are familiar with the idea, newcomers might wonder what happens when you die in Last Epoch Hardcore mode.

This article will address such questions and what players can expect from this mode.

---

What is Last Epoch Hardcore mode?

While playing in the Legacy realm or the new Cycle, players can select the Hardcore mode from the Character Creation menu. Any character created in this mode has only one life, which means a death is permanent, ending the hardcore run.

In comparison, the Standard mode in Last Epoch, also dubbed as Softcore mode, allows players to resurrect infinitely upon death to continue playing the game. This mode is the more popular choice, as losing a hardcore run after investing hundreds of hours is not suitable for the faint-hearted.

However, the Last Epoch Hardcore mode is a must-have element in this genre, as it provides a unique experience that can't be replicated by the Standard mode.

---

Is a Lost Epoch Hardcore mode character still playable after death?

As mentioned, dying in the Last Epoch Hardcore mode will permanently end a player's run. After death, the hardcore character is transferred to the Standard mode. So yes, a hardcore character is still playable after death.

However, even though a character isn't permanently deleted upon death, the player still fails the challenge run. For those attempting to overcome this challenge, dying in Hardcore mode remains punishing and tantamount to failure.

In addition to the challenge of completing a hardcore run, the appeal of this mode lies in the unique experiences that arise from the shift in strategy when facing obstacles. Players become more attentive to their characters' defenses and approach every situation with a level of intensity and care that is lacking when playing in Standard mode, where a character's death has no consequence.

---

More on Last Epoch:

Last Epoch Class Mastery tier list || Last Epoch system requirements || Falconer Mastery skills