Where is Modern Warfare 2’s Hardcore mode, and what is Tier 1?

Call of Duty’s latest entry has arrived, and many players already feel the loss of Hardcore mode. Thankfully, according to developer Infinity WardThe Hardcore Mode is Coming to You Modern Warfare 2 — it’s just not quite ready yet.

One possible reason for players’ confusion around Modern Warfare 2’s Hardcore mode (aside from its absence) is that it isn’t actually called that anymore. Instead, Infinity Ward has renamed the mode Tier 1, even though it’s essentially the same thing.

Call of Duty’s Hardcore mode has been around since 2007’s Call of Duty 4: Modern WarfareIt has appeared in almost every entry. The mode removes most elements of the game’s HUD, including things like ammo count and crosshairs, forcing players to rely on their weapon sights and senses a little more. It also features a quicker time-to kill, friendly fire and makes the mode a bit more risky than other Call of Duty games.

Modern Warfare 2 – Call of Duty’s Tier 1 playlists don’t have a firm release date just yet, but hopefully it will arrive soon to give fans their Hardcore fix.