Does Modern Warfare 3 have Hardcore?

For those looking for an alternative playlist, Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore is the place to go.

Thanks to a faster time to kill than core game modes, this particular Modern Warfare 3 playlist is a staple of the franchise. Featuring a limited head-up display (HUD) and with the majority of the gun list able to score kills with a single shot, many gravitate towards Hardcore as a quick way of unlocking some of the coveted mastery camos in multiplayer.

Before we reveal all about Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore, be sure to take a look at the best Striker loadout and when the first double XP event is likely to take place.

Does Modern Warfare 3 have Hardcore mode?

Fans of Hardcore will be pleased to know Modern Warfare 3 will feature Hardcore as one of several playlists that will be available at launch. Sledgehammer Games confirmed the news following the initial reveal of the game. The developer says: "Hardcore mode is not affected" by adjustments to player health levels.

Credit: Activision

Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore explained

Hardcore is the usual fast-paced action from the standard selection of game modes but instead of the longer time to kill, most weaponry is capable of eliminating a target with a small amount of ammunition.

The adjustments don't stop there. A limited HUD means the minimap only appears when there's a UAV flying overhead, and there's no way of telling how many bullets you have left in the magazine during a heated gunfight.

A faster time to kill may not float everyone's boat, but Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore is particularly useful if you're attempting to rank up weapons fast, especially if it's an underpowered pistol or a launcher that constantly produces hitmarkers during 6v6 and Ground War matches.

Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore game modes

The following game modes will be available to play as soon as the Modern Warfare 3 servers are switched on:

• Team Deathmatch
• Domination
• Kill Confirmed
• Search and Destroy

Once the game launches, we'll be sure to update our guide with other game modes that have received a Hardcore twist.

There you have it, that's everything there is to know about Modern Warfare 3 Hardcore. For more, check out the best MCW loadout and all of the early Season 1 intel.