When entering the Resident Evil 2 Remake for the first time, players are presented with three difficulty options after selecting their scenario. While the initial two provide a decent challenge, opting for Hardcore Mode offers the truest and most intense experience of this survival horror classic, often considered the optimal way to fully engage with the game.

In this mode, enemies are significantly more formidable, with additional adjustments heightening the difficulty, such as the absence of autosaves and significantly scarcer ammunition. Successfully completing Hardcore with a high rank can unlock special weapons, enhancing subsequent playthroughs, making it a worthwhile endeavor.

For those contemplating tackling Resident Evil 2 Remake's ultimate challenge, here are vital tips to aid Leon or Claire in escaping the nightmarish Raccoon City.

7 Stealth Tactics for Lickers

Avoid Instant Death from Lickers by Sneaking Past Them

Traversing the dark and foreboding RPD, players will encounter the Licker, a diminutive yet lethal B.O.W. capable of instantly dispatching Leon or Claire at close range. With no autosaves in Hardcore, evading these adversaries at all costs is imperative, achieved by simply walking when in their vicinity, even if sprinting appears safe.

For instance, the Licker patrolling near the STARS room may entice players to sprint towards safety, but these creatures are notably faster and more agile in Hardcore, potentially catching up even with a head start. Abstaining from sprinting when a Licker is nearby is crucial to forestall untimely demise.

6 Target Lower Limbs

Immobilize Zombies by Aiming for Their Legs

In contrast to the prevalent headshot strategy in zombie games, including the Resident Evil series, targeting the head is less effective in this mode, as it consumes numerous handgun rounds. Opting to aim for the zombies' knees slows them to a crawl, diminishing their threat significantly.

Given the scarcity of ammunition in Hardcore, immobilizing zombies with a few well-placed shots is a prudent tactic, reserving precious bullets for formidable encounters ahead. However, a precisely aimed shot to the head can stagger a zombie, serving as a last-resort maneuver when immediate escape is necessary.

5 Strategic Use of Special Weapons

Reserve Flashbangs and Acid Rounds for Crucial Boss Encounters

While few flashbangs are scattered throughout the RPD, diligent exploration reveals hidden supplies, such as those in the STARS Office. While these items can temporarily disorient groups of zombies or serve as secondary equipment to evade attacks, safeguarding them in an Item Box for boss battles enhances their utility.

For instance, during the initial Birkin encounter directly after leaving the RPD, flashbangs halt the mutated scientist, providing ample time to target his vulnerable spots. Similarly, the advice extends to Acid Rounds encountered later in the game. While tempting to use against Ivy Zombies, they prove invaluable in the Birkin G3 fight, warranting preservation for this pivotal battle.