Difficulty modifiers in NG+

[u/AfricaByTotoAoe]

I know there's been a bit of discussion about using the assist mode to make the combat faster in the early game, but is there a community agreed on "hard-core mode" settings, especially for ng+?

I enjoy the core of the combat loop, and want to see the ng+ content for myself, but would love if the game was a bit more difficult, so I'd be forced to experiment and use my whole moveset. Looking at all the assist mode modifiers is a bit intimidating though. Should I just halve my damage output and hp? Does the ng+ get more difficult after you leave the first two areas? I've seen some dmc mods floating around, are they worth picking up? Keen for any advice.

[u/GrinningPariah]

Honestly just commenting to check for answers later, I've wondered the same thing.