We took a closer look at Ghostrunner 2’s new free hardcore mode. Is it worth checking out, even if you've already finished the game? Find the answer and our thoughts about the update in this article!
On October 26, 505 Games has released Ghostrunner 2, the follow-up to the tough but beloved first game. In my review, I already talked about how the game maintains its challenging yet fair nature.
However, with the latest free update (release on December 7), the developer "One More Level" takes it up a notch. The new Hardcore mode makes the already tough gameplay even more intense. The question is, does it sacrifice the existing fairness or fun of the game?
Below you'll find the answer to this question!
| 📌Quick Facts | Ghostrunner 2 |
| Release: | October 26, 2023 |
| Price: | $39.99 |
| Platform: | PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S |
| Developer: | One More Level |
| Publisher: | 505 Games |
| Genre: | Cyberpunk, Action Platformer |
Here you can buy Ghostrunner 2!
Ghostrunner 2: The Content Of The Hardcore Mode
To access Ghostrunner 2's Hardcore mode, you must have completed the entire main campaign of the game, and that's a good thing. Because the new mode is not for the faint-hearted or those who have already pushed their limits in the normal playthrough.
But what makes the Hardcore mode so difficult? It's quite simple. With the mode that can be selected in the main menu, the difficulty is significantly increased. The levels undergo a complete overhaul with impenetrable barriers, barbed wire, or new and more enemies – some of which you'd only encounter in the later stages of the normal mode.
But there aren't only downsides to this mode, right? Correct! As Cyberninja Jack, you get all upgrades and abilities right from the beginning, without having to collect any shared along the way. This opens up new and creative ways to master the upcoming levels.
Ghostrunner 2: My Thoughts On The Hardcore Mode
When I first tried the new Hardcore mode, my immediate reaction was, "Uh-oh, this is going to be tough!". The first level throws at you a bunch of new enemies in larger numbers than usual, along with obstacles like barriers and barbed wires. If you're coming back after a break, like I did, be ready for a tough start with lots of deaths.
In the normal mode I died 45 times in the first level and during my hardcore mode run of the exact same level, I died 215 times...
But with time and slow adaptation to the difficulty level, the first moments of success came in, and the initial thoughts changed to: "Okay, takes a while, but I'm getting better... right?".
It was fascinating to see this change in mindset, especially since I had already praised the game's fairness in my Ghostrunner 2 review. Once you get into the flow of the game and find your pace, victories come easily, and that remains true even in Hardcore mode.
What makes Hardcore mode extra special is that it encouraged me to think outside the box without explicitly saying so. I started taking less obvious paths and became more experimental with my surroundings and the new obstacles out of necessity. For instance, I used the obstacles to lead enemies into traps – oopsie!
When a game sparks creativity and motivation without explicitly stating it, the developer has done something right in my book. Despite the many changes to the levels, the bosses haven't changed much at all. But that's probably a good thing, as too many changes to the game could make the game less fair.
But it was also delightful to dive back into the music of Ghostrunner 2. Artists like We Are Magonia or Dan Terminus have created catchy Dark Electronic/Electronic songs, with tracks like "God Run" or "Carrion Radiance" complementing the entire gaming experience excellently.
Ghostrunner 2: First Part Of The Season Pass Also Released
With the free Ghostrunner 2 update, the first part of the Season Pass is officially released as well. Here you get access to DLC Pack #1 "Ice Pack," where you receive three new designs each for your glove and your sword. In addition, the motorcycle also receives an ice design, adorned with matching effects.
In 2024, the Season Pass will be further enhanced with additional cosmetic items, as well as the new game mode "Endless Moto Mode." Access to the Season Pass is available either through the "Brutal Edition" or through a standalone Season Pass priced at $19.99.
Here you can buy Ghostrunner 2!