Forum:Mulitple playthroughs LI interests other things...

So, I have played ME1 3 times through now and am trying to figure out how to unlock Hardcore and insanity. It seems like the difficulty level is locked if I use an existing character. So anyway do I need to start a new char and choose hardcore and then another new char for insanity?

Also, are love interests tied to paragon/renegade points or just what you say to them?

If you have multiple plays what exactly transfers to ME2&ME3, on one run through I found all the survey minerals and medallions league of one crap which was boring as hell and wouldn't want to have to do it again just because I want to beat it on hardcore and insanity. Plus do I need to do every side quest again? I guess I don't quite get the the transfer.

also while in the elevator I heard mention of something about searching the "Alliance Data Base for courage" and it would bring up something about an interesting war hero. I did this and I was offered an additional skill option but wasn't sure if this was just bc of the prior play thoroughs and didn't finish the creation.

I guess also to unlock all the achievements you'd have to play it through like 10 times at least right? like for complete most of the game with the krogan, turian, human etc. stuff. I'm sure a lot of people have completed all the achievements and I love mass effect it's my favorite game that's been out in a while and just want some advice thoughts, thx