Yeah, its fucking stupid.
The games weren't fucking hard to begin with, unless hard these days is regarded as something that makes you stop and think for two fucking seconds, maybe even - SHOCK HORROR - explore a level somewhat to find stuff to help you.
If people are too stupid for it, then tell them to play something else. I'd like to play the Total War games, but since I can't wrap my head around them, I don't fucking play them. I don't expect the developers to pander to me.
Considering this is basically the first thing they've announced about the game, I'd say its more of a design focus as opposed to a full-retard difficulty mode.