Hardcore mode is probably vastly unutilized

If you die in hardcore mode you should lose the character entirely.
maybe only merge the currencies to softcore but not be able to keep the character.

Maybe it would be nice to gear the hardcore character with unique items or items that don't require level before entering to ensure survivability in the early game.

I made a post about being able to combine orbs and essence for greaters. I think that would make hardcore mode interesting and viable with crafting.

I just don't see a point in playing hardcore mode if the character just enters a softcore mode unless there was a rarity boost for early game items or combining orbs for greaters was exclusive to hardcore.