I played it first, after beating it I turned it off and it was much more simple and easy then HC.

I agree. Just the fact stimpaks don't heal automatically is reason enough to use it.

I think Over-time stims are more helpful than insta-stims.

That way I don't constantly spam my Stims.
And I JUST beat the game yesterday! FINALLY! WITH NO BUGS! Thank you independance..

But my ending was like three minutes long...
:c

IMHO, hardcoe mode adds a simulated layer of realism that further differentiates the FONV experience from its FO3 sibling.

The game just feels different when you don't have the luxury of carrying every piece of ammo you find in the wasteland and because stimpacks heal over time you need to think twice before engaging tough enemies such as Deathclaws or a swarm of Cazadores.

You also have to worry about your companions since they aren't flagged as "essential".

I also like the fact that there is a use for food/water and rest in the game. Without hardcoe, aside from the well rested bonus, beds are pretty much just for show and food and drink aside from what paltry status and healing bonuses they may have, are more or less just slightly more expensive junk.

Also doctor services are much more valuable since you want to save doc bags radaways for the field, in FO3 they were practically useless.

As for weather or not it makes the game harder, with respect to the weighted ammo, healing item delays and killable companions, yes it does.

Though I do have to say that the term "hardcoe mode" may be a bit of a misnomer, since it's more of a "realistic simulation" mode. If you truly want something hardcoe, try a "dead is dead" playthrough...

Tried it for a bit and found it was not what I wanted out of this game. Out of habit I always pick up everything that does not come with a karma penalty so I'm already having to spend most of my time running back and forth from toolboxes, trashcans, or what ever just to keep my inventory clear. So having food and water on hand is never a problem I just got tired of always being under a penalty's because I didn't see some little note that read "Courier needs food/sleep/water badly." Adding in weight to ammo and death for companion makes this almost intolerable. I will play it once to get the what ever you get for beating it with it on but that will be all I ever do with it. It's just not for me.

No, my first play through in any game is always to get the lay of the land, losing to a deathclaw no problem, losing because I took a wrong turn will severely pi$$ me off.