Second playthrough "Realistic" challenge
Having finished the game first time round on hard, I couldn't be bothered going for 100% completion so I took a backup and started a new save with some self-imposed limitations to try and make the game a bit more challenging, since it'll be a while before the re-balance mods start to appear. Here are my recommendations for a more "realistic" (and tougher) game experience:
- Hard difficulty
- Minimap off (in interface settings)
- XP indicators off (in interface settings; means you don't automatically *know* when you've killed someone through brush etc.)
- No signature weapons (they're too good!)
- No silencers except on sidearms (silenced long range weapons are too good, unless you want to take the bow as your main weapon in which case good luck to you!)
- No special syringes (they're too good!)
- Crafting upgrades limited to level 1/3 weapon holster, 1/4 ammo bag, 1/4 quiver, 1/4 wallet and 1/4 loot bag. No other upgrades.
- No sidearm grenade launcher (optional - because while it is incredible overpowered, it's perhaps too much fun to give up)
I've not specified detection indicators off, because I think that without the minimap or hunting syringe it's reasonable to keep these on since the enemy can see so much better through brush than you can. Having only one sidearm and one main weapon slot and limiting your resources really forces you to think about your loadout and makes for some great moments when your ammo runs out during a big fight. Enjoy!