MW2 Hardcore Tier 1 Explained

Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 has many different game modes. These range from basic deathmatches, to more complex modes such as Prisoner Rescue. However, one mode that is ostensibly absent from this list is Tier 1. This is a Hardcore mode, aimed at players that want more realistic and challenging combat in the game. It requires team communication and cohesion, and rewards tactical decision-making and careful playstyle. As such, many players are disappointed that it still isn’t available. But why is that? We’ll take a look at why it is missing and when it will be back in our MW2 Hardcore Tier 1 Explained guide.

UPDATE: Modern Warfare 2 developer Infinity Ward has confirmed that the Hardcore mode is making a return in Season 2 on February 15th, 2023. “Hardcore mode is returning to MWII,” reads the official blog post. “Hardcore will replace the Tier 1 mode. We are excited for fans to have this franchise favorite back in the mix for Season 02.”

How to Play Hardcore in MW2, Tier 1 Explained

Currently, you can’t play Tier 1 Hardcore Mode in CoD MW2. As of right now, the following modes are available: TDM, Domination, Kill Confirmed, Free For All, Headquarters, Hardpoint, Search & Destroy, Third Person Moshpit, Invasion, Ground War, Prisoner Rescue, and Knock Out. As you can see, Tier 1 is conspicuously missing from this list. So why is that the case? Well, the fact of the matter is – we don’t know. Perhaps this game mode is still being worked on. After all, its game rules are completely different than any other game mode in the game. Reduced health, friendly fire, and fewer HUD elements – just to name a few – all of these add up to a significantly harder game experience.

With that said, when can we expect to see and experience Tier 1 in action? This is all speculation at this point, but it will most likely happen during an update to the game itself. The updates tend to take place at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET / 6 PM BST, so you should keep an eye out on the state of the game then to see if Tier 1 is added.