Short answer
Choose Explorer if you want a gentler learning loop. Since 0.7.0, all three modes have 150 maximum Stamina, but an Explorer dodge costs 15 versus 40 in Returner and Iron Man. Explorer is not a no-loss or invincibility mode.
Explorer, Returner and Iron Man: confirmed differences
| Rule | Explorer | Returner | Iron Man |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Stamina · 0.7.0 | 150 | 150 | 150 |
| Stamina spent per dodge · 0.7.0 | 15 | 40 | 40 |
| Selling modifier · 0.6.0 | 1.2× item-selling return | No Explorer-specific bonus stated | No Explorer-specific bonus stated |
| Death-screen actions · 0.7.0 | Not separately specified | Continue / Load Game | New Game / Exit |
Source: Update 0.7.0 — mode stamina, dodge costs and death screen ↗
Source: Update 0.6.0 — Explorer item-selling modifier ↗
Older 0.6.0 advice gives Returner and Iron Man 100 maximum Stamina; 0.7.0 supersedes that value. The selling modifier is not a multiplier for every quest reward or all Reputation. Trader rank and item category also affect a sale, so compare the price displayed by your trader.
Which mode suits my goal?
- Learning routes and equipment: Explorer is the developer-described less punishing option. It leaves more stamina for repeated dodges while you learn.
- Want to inspect a load option after death: Returner has a documented Load Game choice. Check which saves actually exist; do not assume every mistake is reversible.
- Considering Iron Man: read the New Game / Exit death-screen boundary before investing in the run. This guide provides no bypass for that rule.
For the actual post-death decision, go to death-screen and recovery steps. This page compares modes; it does not duplicate a recovery walkthrough.
What Explorer does not protect
The original mode announcement describes more forgiving combat, faster Job progression and keeping equipment on death, but excludes some backpack items. It does not publish a complete protected-item list or a universal combat-damage multiplier.
Source: Day One Update 0.5.169 — Explorer introduction and equipment boundary ↗
Before starting, read the mode shown for the run and keep important supplies in mind. For a first outing, use the preparation checklist. No current-build item-loss test or ability to switch an existing run between modes is claimed here.
Explorer mode FAQ
Does Explorer have more maximum stamina?
Not under 0.7.0: Explorer, Returner and Iron Man all have 150 maximum Stamina. Explorer's dodge costs 15 instead of 40.
Does Explorer double every reward?
No. The 0.6.0 note specifies 1.2 times the money from selling items. This is not a confirmed multiplier for all Job rewards or Reputation.
Do I keep everything when I die in Explorer?
No. The mode announcement says equipment is kept but not every backpack item. The current guide does not claim an independently tested protected-item list.