You can check out the tips page for more information. Learn enemy weaknesses and elemental damage. There are times when skills won't seem as crucial to the game, but Hard Mode is a good example of when they can make a huge difference. Don't play the storyline four times for a single quest. This will likely be your second playthrough, so it's a good time to look back at the additional achievements page and look for anything you've missed. You can see where to buy these things below. You should also look into using some items like Pilgrim's Charms which will increase the experience you earn. And wakestones are never a bad idea either, as I've already mentioned. You should also place down portcrystals so you're ready. If you have done a playthrough, collect things that you won't have access to in the new game, like the wakestones in the Everfall. If you haven't completed the game at least once, be ready to struggle. Save often and remember the basic tips to the game. It's also good to note that pawns are unaffected by difficulty, and therefore, they keep the increased stamina and stats. Enemies will not get smarter, and their health won't increase with difficulty. There are no other changes from the normal playthrough. Don't underestimate the value of items like Blast Arrows and Pilgrim's Charms. If it becomes difficult to advance, be sure you're using the correct approach to each enemy type, and that you've been updating your equipment. Hard Mode generally comes down to being cautious with your stamina and being smart about your skillset. All equipment and materials are kept as if Hard Mode was a New Game Plus, however, you cannot switch to Hard Mode from the Normal Mode.Mitigation augments are increased dramatically (such as Fortitude or Awareness).The player's stagger/knockdown effects are decreased.Enemies drop "proportionately" more gold when killed.The player's stamina usage is doubled (running is not affected).The experience, rift crystals, and discipline gained are doubled.The damage of enemy attacks is doubled.These items will appear in your storage once you've completed the game, and you cannot find them anywhere else, hence naming them unique. They offer high enough stats to be of use to players, although the value will only last for so long. Unlike some of the other unique rewards (such as the items from a speedrun), the Abyssinal outfit and the Duke's clothing are decent as equipment.