Striking Distance Studios has rolled out The Callisto Protocol update 3.02, which adds a new Hardcore mode to the game.

　　The patch is available for download now and should download automatically if this option has been enabled (on either PC or consoles). As said, this new update makes adds a new mode that makes the game more challenging by making ammo, health, and credits more scarce. In addition, enemy damage has been increased while stun baton damage has been lowered. Also, the mode increased enemy mutation speed, and Contraband value has been reduced. There's also a new Hardcore Mode New Game + for those who completed the game in hardcore mode alongside new achievements and trophies.

　　Ready for a tougher challenge in The Callisto Protocol? Hardcore Mode is now out and FREE for all players.

　　The Outer Way Skin Collection is also available to season pass owners.

　　For full details: https://t.co/r4kZofi9Ii pic.twitter.com/TXRZY46gT8

　　— The Callisto Protocol (@CallistoTheGame) February 7, 2023

　　Aside from the new mode, this new patch also packs various improvements, including ray tracing improvements for those on PC, and Steam Deck-specific changes. We've included the full release notes down below:

The Callisto Protocol Update 3.02 Release Notes February 7

　　A challenging take on The Callisto Protocol’s survival-horror experience, intended to push you to your limits, Hardcore mode is not for the faint of heart. Here’s what you can expect;

　　Ammo, health and credits are harder to come by and not every Biophage will drop loot.

　　Increased enemy damage

　　Decreased Stun Baton damage

　　Increased enemy mutation speed

　　Contraband value is reduced

　　Hardcore Mode New Game+ (requires completion of standard Hardcore Mode playthrough)

　　New Achievements / Trophies to hunt

　　Global

　　Players that were not correctly granted the "The Protocol is About Life" achievement upon completing the game will be automatically granted the achievement

　　Localization fixes for leveling and VO/subtitle mismatches

　　Optimized enemy combat AI when player is surrounded by multiple enemies

　　Steam Deck

　　Updated font rendering and UI elements for readability

　　Created a rendering functionality profile specifically for Steam Deck with the best settings for smooth gameplay

　　Updated control schemes for SteamDeck controls

　　PC Specific

　　Ray tracing performance improvement

　　The Callisto Protocol is available globally now for PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.