There are several mods that improve on hardcoe mode.

I'm very happy with the Harder hardcoe Rates (Refined) mod. It is not very realistic, but it makes the game play more balanced and enjoyable because with the increased rates I occasionally run out of food and water, or reach advanced sleep deprivation far from any available mattresses.

1. Just the same as non-hardcoe.
2. Yes, but no point seen as I have the Console Trophy/ Achievement.
3. Normal then found it too easy and switched to Hard around level 20?
4.Yes, I played hardcoe on my first play-through so there was quite a lot I could have known.
5.Focus on getting all Unique items, like on my other "Normal" play-through's.
6.Get to the end of the game.
7.No, its easier to not use it in my view.
8.Combat, considering you limbs cripple pretty easily.
9.I think I used Rex and Boone.

I don't think there's much difference in hardcoe other than you need to keep food and water stocked at all times, and ammo weight is a killer. <_<

1. No. It kinda ruined the game for me because I was so worried I'd die if I did anything.
2. Yes, to see if I'd have more fun the second time.
3. Normal
4. How surprisingly easy it is to find everything you need when you need it.
5. Not worry so much.
6. I practically beelined through the Caesar's Legion quest.
7. I always Vat a lot anyway. No change.
8. Survival can be very useful. Maybe some perks that are more practical and less "+1 to (insert stat here)"
9. No and I really should have. It made the end game very difficult for me because I was also a very low level from the lack of side-questing.