Are you rewarded for playing Diablo II in hardcore mode?

Question

Once you've finished Diablo II you are able to play hardcore mode.

So far, I am aware of these elements when playing hardcore:

• When you die, your character is permanently killed and unplayable.
• Your name appears in red on b.net.
• Your character will wear a robe once killed and you can still participate in b.net conversations etc.

In games with similar modes, you will be rewarded whilst playing. For example:

• Better items drop far more frequently.
• Access to a couple more side-quests.
• Ability to play against special boss's (for example Uber Diablo/Baal/Mephisto if you play hell mode + b.net).
• A small selection of new skills / spells.
• etc

Are there any perks when playing hardcore such as an increased chance of finding uniques and set items? Or is the sole benefit bragging rights?

Answer 1

Nope.

http://diablo.incgamers.com/forums/showthread.php?519546-The-Hardcore-FAQ

2.3 Hardcore vs Softcore…what's the difference?

When it comes down to it, the difference is not that great. Apart from the one life aspect of HC, the game is exactly the same; the same items, same skills, same levels, same monsters. However, the spectre of your mortality looming in the background has an enormous effect on the way you build and play your characters, and this will be explained in the section below, entitled Gameplay in Hardcore.

4.4 Are the item drops better in Hardcore than Softcore?

No. Monsters drop exactly the same, regardless of whether you play hardcore or softcore. Contrary to urban legend, hardcore does not reward players with better items.

Answer 2

Nothing within the game changes. Although the player receives experience of the game, and learns to play better (: