twillight: First: drow is not a playable race.

Second: shorties get Saving Throw Bonuses depending on their constitution (maximum -5 at 18 CON).So if a spell/ability bypasses magic resistance (some do), then you'll have to rely on saves. That's where Shorty Bonuses help you.

twillight: I already did, and enjoyed the experience despite the difficulties.
And I played hardcore,aka.:
- no magic helmets (including Vhailor's Simulacrum)
- no magic boots
- no Claw of Kazgaroth
- no Amulet of Seldarine
- no Horn of Kazgaroth
- no Deck of Many Things
- no magical shields (actualyno shields sinceI could afford 3 in two weapon style)

burn: Hardcore (or Ironman) is usually referred to a style of playing when you don't allow reloads, though.