For those of you who found BioShock to be lacking in the challenge department, never fear, Irrational Games has got you covered: introducing 1999 Mode for BioShock Infinite.

If you’re confused, the premise is simple – BioShock creator, Ken Levine is an old-school gamer, and he wants those of you who are brave enough, to experience BioShock Infinite in that old-school way.

“We want to give our oldest and most committed fans an option to go back to our roots,” said Mister Levine.

1999 Mode will challenge gamers to actually consider everything they do in the game:

• Upgrades will be permanent;
• Respawning will be restricted;
• Weapon, power and health management will be more demanding;
• The words “Game Over” will likely smack you in your face because modern gaming has made you weak.

I don’t remember games being hardcore in 1999 – I was too busy avoiding puberty – but the year saw some awesome game releases, so if BioShock Infinite is trying to reach back to that gameplay era, this should be awesome.