After a decade of continuous updates and evolution, Ubisoft's tactical shooter Rainbow Six Siege is undergoing its most significant transformation yet. The upcoming Rainbow Six Siege X update marks a pivotal moment for the long-running franchise as it embraces partial free-to-play access while introducing its first new permanent game mode in 10 years.
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| Armored soldiers prepared for combat, reflecting the tactical and intense nature of Rainbow Six Siege as it undergoes a significant update |
The X Factor
Rainbow Six Siege X represents the culmination of three years of parallel development alongside the game's regular seasonal updates. Rather than creating a sequel, Ubisoft has opted for a comprehensive refresh that modernizes the core experience while maintaining continuity for veteran players. Game Director Alexander Karpazis emphasized that Siege 2 was never on the table, with the team instead focusing on making big, meaningful changes that respect the community that has supported the game for a decade.
Partial Free-to-Play Model
In a significant shift from its pay-to-play origins, Rainbow Six Siege will introduce what Ubisoft calls free access starting June 10, 2025. This new model will make the majority of the game available at no cost, including Unranked, Quick Play, and the new Dual Front mode. Free players will start with 10 operators and can unlock up to 26 through gameplay.
However, Ubisoft is maintaining a strategic paywall for its most competitive experiences. The Ranked and Siege Cup modes will remain exclusive to players who purchase the premium version of the game. Karpazis explained this decision as a way to weed out smurfs and ensure that competitive play remains committed and focused, calling it the best of both worlds.
Dual Front: Breaking All the Rules
The centerpiece of the Siege X update is Dual Front, a revolutionary 6v6 mode that fundamentally changes how Rainbow Six Siege is played. Available on PC and current-generation consoles, Dual Front introduces several heretical concepts to the tactical shooter:
- Teams of six players (up from the traditional five)
- 30-second respawns with the ability to switch operators between lives
- Mixed teams of attackers and defenders playing together
- Simultaneous attack and defense objectives on large, three-lane maps
- Matches lasting approximately 20 minutes
The mode takes place on specially designed maps with three zones that teams must capture while defending their own territory. As one team captures zones, they push the enemy back, with victory achieved by capturing all three enemy zones. A neutral middle area features optional objectives that can help teams gain momentum.
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| A figure in a gas mask symbolizes confidence and readiness in a revolutionary new game mode, reflecting the breaking of traditional rules in Rainbow Six Siege |
Technical and Visual Enhancements
Beyond the new game mode, Siege X delivers substantial technical improvements across all aspects of the game. Five maps (Clubhouse, Chalet, Border, Bank, and Kafe) will receive graphical overhauls at launch with improved lighting, shadows, and high-resolution textures. Ubisoft plans to modernize three additional maps each season thereafter.
The update also introduces enhanced environmental destruction with new interactive elements like gas pipes that create area denial fire and fire extinguishers that generate smoke clouds. Players will benefit from revamped audio propagation for better spatial awareness, improved rappelling mechanics that allow for sprinting and cornering while on ropes, and a new communication wheel for non-verbal team coordination.
Setting Up for Another Decade
With Rainbow Six Siege X, Ubisoft is clearly positioning the game for long-term sustainability. By refreshing core systems while maintaining the tactical DNA that made Siege successful, the company hopes to both retain veteran players and attract newcomers through the free access tier.
The game has continued to grow, we're still setting new records in this last year, Karpazis noted, highlighting Siege's remarkable longevity in an industry where multiplayer games often struggle to maintain relevance. This major update, combined with the new accessibility of free access, suggests Ubisoft is confident in Siege's ability to thrive for another decade.
Players interested in trying Dual Front early can participate in the closed beta running through March 19, 2025, available via Twitch Drops after linking Ubisoft and Twitch accounts. The full Rainbow Six Siege X update launches on June 10, 2025.