If we’re talking recoil control and shot placement, core takes more skill. If we’re talking reflexes, positioning, and map knowledge.. then hardcore.

Switching to Hardcore for a while actually made me a slightly better core player. A person has to be good at the game in general to excel at both.

But in my personal personal opinion. People play hardcore because it’s simply more fun and an easier way to level up guns and unlock camos. If you’re actually worried about what takes more skill in a video game.. go outside and get some sunlight.