Conquer Hardcore Mode in Kingdom Come: Deliverance II with an advantage you deserve 

‘I was delighted to get lost in its world, and it will be a long time before I forget its exceptional story. ranks among the most unique, memorable RPGs I’ve played in years.’ -Leana Hafer for IGN 

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 is a triumph, weaving complex systems together in an incredibly immersive medieval world that remains a joy to explore even after countless hours.-  Dashiell Wood for TechRadar 

I would happily have spent another 75 hours getting chivalrous in the Bohemian crownlands. This is a new RPG classic, an instant favourite for me’ - Joshua Wolens for PCgamer 

If you’ve already stepped into Kingdom Come Deliverance 2’s Hardcore Mode, you know it’s not just a game, it’s survival. No HUD, no fast travel, no mercy. Every mechanic is amplified in intensity, especially one that’s been pushing players to the edge since the first game: lockpicking!

In Hardcore Mode, you’re left with nothing but your skill and your thumbs. No visual cues, No shortcuts. That’s why having even the slightest edge can make a massive difference. 

Get the Upper Hand (Literally) with Studs and Step Ups 

Our performance thumb grips were built for high-pressure moments like these. Whether you're a long-time veteran or a new squire in Bohemia, better control = more success and less frustration. 

Studs: Grip That Locks You In 

The lockpicking mini game in KCD2 demands that you find and hold a precise sweet spot with the right thumbstick. In Hardcore Mode, you’ll be doing this blindly and often under pressure. 

That’s where Studs come in.  

With a raised, tactile surface to improve traction, and the 4-way directional input improves hand eye co-ordination. Studs give you the confidence to maintain control without slipping. 

“...for the lockpicking mainly looking at better or enhanced motor control to keep a precise sweetspot during the mini-game – the grip on the Studs makes that process really smooth.” 

If lockpicking in the first Kingdom Come made you want to throw your controller, you're not alone and in Hardcore Mode? It's even tougher. 

Step Ups feature a elevated platform that gives you more precise thumbstick movement and feedback ideal for slow, controlled rotation. 

“…the Step Up kit has helped with the more difficult aspects such as lockpicking in Kingdom Come, which I remember in the first game was almost rage-inducing at times for controllers.” 

Real Results from Real Players 

We’ve seen players report more consistent success during challenging mechanics like lockpicking, stealth and combat. That’s not just comfortable, it’s a performance upgrade you can feel. 

Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 Hardcore Mode doesn’t pull punches. If you’re spending your evenings picking locks in the dark with a controller, why not do it with better control and less frustration? 

You’ve earned your scars in Bohemia. Now earn your edge. 

 FAQs: KCDII Lockpicking, Hardcore Mode & Thumb Grips 

How do you pick locks in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 with a controller? 
Lockpicking involves rotating the thumbstick while holding the sweet spot in place, without a UI in Hardcore Mode, this requires precise, steady movement that can be tough with standard thumbsticks. 

Why is lockpicking so difficult in KCDII? 
It’s designed to be immersive and skill-based, replicating real-life dexterity challenges. This makes it notoriously difficult, especially on console controllers where precise thumb control is harder to maintain. 

Do performance thumb grips actually help with lockpicking in games? 
Yes. Enhanced grips improve tactile feedback and stability, making it easier to maintain consistent movement without slipping—crucial for fine motor mechanics like lockpicking. 

What’s the best way to improve lockpicking in KCD2 Hardcore Mode? 
Practice helps, but pairing that with controller enhancements like Studs and Step Ups gives you a mechanical edge. Most players find a significant improvement in accuracy and confidence. 

Are Studs or Step Ups better for lockpicking? 
It depends on your needs. Studs offer better grip and traction—great for sweaty or high-stress situations. Step Ups give you elevated precision for small, deliberate movements. Many players combine both for best results. 

 Black Xbox controller held in a hand with Thumb Soldiers' Studs thumb grips on the thumbsticks and a blurred background Red and black playstation gaming controller on a textured surface with Thumb Soldiers' Studs thumb grips on the thumbsticks.

   BUY STUDS KIT HERE

 Blue PlayStation controller with Thumb Soldiers' Step Up thumb grips on the thumbsticks, held by a hand on a neutral background Dual Tier Thumbstick Controller Modifications on Xbox

   BUY STEP UP KIT HERE