Witcher 2's 'Insane' difficulty mode offers no respawn, only permanent death
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings will include "permanent death" as an ominous feature of its "Insane" difficulty option. Eurogamer spoke with CD Projekt gameplay designer Mateusz Kanik, who explained that players can save the game on Insane, but if they die that career string will be disabled for reloading. However, the developer does plan on adding a "resurrection scroll; maybe DLC or something."
The harsh design decision comes from CD Projekt's admiration for the notoriously sinister Demon's Souls' lovingly abusive relationship with the player. Kanik added that there will be an achievement "for sure" for beating the game on Insane. Come on, CD Projekt, at least offer up one of those Witcher heads for the accomplishment, considering death is on the line.
