PEAK Game Difficulties Information Guide
PEAK starts simple, but each new difficulty adds another problem to worry about. Fall damage, hunger, cold, and eventually... permadeath. Here’s how every difficulty works and what changes as you climb higher.
Tenderfoot
The easy mode for beginners
Lower stamina drain
Hunger builds slowly
No time limit
You won’t unlock anything by playing Tenderfoot, but it’s useful if you're new or just testing out mechanics.
“Peak”
The standard mode
Balanced stamina and hunger
Normal fall damage
Escape rope is available at the top
This is the first real challenge and the one you need to beat to unlock higher difficulties.
Ascent I
Fall damage gets serious
Increased fall damage
All Peak effects carry over
Small slips can now cause real injuries. If you like jumping off cliffs for fun, stop.
Ascent II
Hunger drains faster
All previous effects
Stamina now drops quickly from hunger
You’ll need to eat more often to stay alive. Stock up and plan meals.
Ascent III
Everything is heavier
All previous effects
Items now weigh more
Every piece of gear drains your stamina faster. Drop junk when you can.
Ascent IV
No flare at the top
All previous effects
Final flare no longer spawns
You’ll have to find a flare earlier on... or fail to finish the run. Check the Shore or dig through luggage.
Ascent V
The cold hits harder
All previous effects
You freeze at night, no matter the zone
Even outside the Alpine level, nighttime chills drain stamina fast unless you stay warm.
Ascent VI
Climbing costs more stamina
All previous effects
Climbing now tires you out faster
Every ledge and rope now eats your stamina bar. Bring tools or you’ll burn out mid-wall.
Ascent VII
Permadeath mode
All previous effects
No revives... you fall, you're done
The final difficulty removes revival. If someone dies, they spectate. If everyone dies, the run is over.
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Final Blurb
Each Ascent piles on the last, turning a casual climb into a brutal expedition. If you make it to Ascent VII, congrats... just don’t fall.
FAQ
Q: How many difficulties are there in PEAK?
There are 8 total difficulties, starting with Tenderfoot and ending with Ascent VII.
Q: How do I unlock harder difficulties?
Complete each difficulty in order, starting with Peak.
Q: What’s the hardest change in the game?
Ascent VII adds permadeath. One fall and you're out for the rest of the run.
Q: Is Tenderfoot required to unlock Peak?
No, you can start with Peak right away.
Q: Can I unlock badges in Tenderfoot?
Some badges can be earned, but not all. Use Peak or higher for full unlocks.
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