What Is A "Hardcore Game"?

[SmokedHostage]

Garcian Smith said:

@ SmokedHostage: That seems to be what people generally think of as a hardcore game, but that leaves the question of why those things are considered "hardcore." Is there something about a brown, HD, violent game with high production values that somehow makes it better than a "casual" game (whatever that is)?

Hardcore is a mindset.  In this times where the marketleader happens to be the most casual console, being hardcore seems to be a term of endearment.  It's like.. if you're hardcore, you're on the right side of this "war."  With this console war mentality, it's only natural that one be perceived as better from the get-go.

I think I just confused myself.