Ubisoft’s Rainbow 6 Siege has been officially renamed Rainbow 6 Siege X and along with the name change is the largest update the game has ever seen. Every nook and cranny of the previous version has been elevated to new heights with the release of Siege X and the best part of it all is it is now free to play for everyone. Now for those who are in the competitive space, you will have to pay to unlock competitive modes which are unlocked by acquiring either the Elite or Ultimate edition. Regardless of how you play this could not be a better time for those new to Tom Clancy’s sweatiest tactical shooter and we will discuss all the latest features and expected changes you can expect when jumping into Rainbow 6 Siege X.

How Rainbow 6 Siege X Differs From The Original Rainbow 6

The recent update is a full overhaul of the previous editions of Rainbow 6 Siege from audio and graphic enhancements, new 6v6 game modes, revamped destructible environments, and the new operator Rauora. Right from the start players will have access to 10 unlocked operators which is a huge win for those new to the game who might not have time to grind and unlock an operator that plays to their strengths. From the audio and visual side of things, you can expect to see more high-resolution textures, updated support for 4K, and overall audio improvements that I know many fans will be excited for as you will be able to discern footsteps, gadgets, and breaches much clearer. Being able to put a hole through a wall or even the floor to set up the perfect shot or vantage point to protect your teammates is one of my favorite features of Rainbow 6 Siege. Siege X has introduced several new ways to interact and destroy the surrounding environment with fire extinguishers that when shot leave a lasting smoke cloud, and gas pipes that ignite fire impeding movement or fully blocking a path or route. This adds a whole new layer of strategy that teams and players can use to flip the tables on unexpected players or even set up new traps to take out multiple operators at once.

For those just beginning their Rainbow 6 Siege journey Siege X is the perfect time to join because aside from accessibility due to the new free-to-play model Siege X has introduced new game modes. The new 6v6 Dual Front mode is a major overhaul from the traditional 5v5 mode legacy players are used to in many ways. Now respawns will be continuous so even if you make an early mistake and are taken out you will be able to respawn in that same round to further support your team because there are no individual rounds. Dual Front is a timed-based match that allows for quicker matches and an easier format that allows new players to get a feel for the pace of the game without being stuck in slower, more tactical matches that the 5v5 mode is known for. Dual Front is a great mode to be able to test out new or different operators so you can learn and see how each other's unique gadgets and weapons function as well as get a better understanding of each map. Map knowledge is a massively underrated strength and should not be overlooked by those who are learning Siege for the first time or a returning player after some time. Several maps like Clubhouse, Chalet, and Bank have all been updated graphically but there have not been any full overhauls so those who have experience will not have to worry about relearning everything from scratch.

How to best optimize your controller for success in Siege X

For those new to Rainbow 6 Siege or just returning for the new update it is always important to check out what new updates or settings changes have occurred. Siege is a game built on strategic tactics and precise accuracy and timing, so it is important to feel confident when you step onto the battlefield. Fortunately, Siege X was created with controller players in mind as they have introduced new default button layouts with tactile presets available. These presets can improve your ability to peak corners faster, activate gadgets with ease, and even introduce new ways to communicate with teammates through bumper pings (similar to the Apex pings if you are familiar). All of this can be found in your controller settings along with full button remapping capabilities, this is an extremely helpful feature as not all controllers or players operate the same, and being able to fully customize your controller outputs to your favor can give any player a massive advantage.

Unlock the KontrolFreek Advantage with Galaxy Performance Thumbsticks

Once you have spent time in the setting and have your controller fully optimized from sensitivity, input settings, and more I have a final tip that can take your gameplay to the next level. That is getting and equipping a pair of KontrolFreek’s Galaxy Performance Thumbsticks. This pair of mixed-height thumbsticks will take your aim accuracy movement all to the next level by elevating your arch of movement with your analog stick allowing for you to make the slightest movement with ultimate precision. These thumbsticks with their laser etch texture and concave design allow for your thumbs to fit with ease and confidence as you will instantly feel the grip and added surface area to ensure your thumbs are in full control no matter how intense the gameplay gets.

In Siege X preparation is the key to success but being able to execute at a high level in the moment by making a key play with your new improved accuracy or escaping at the last moment from a potential trap laid by the enemy is what you can expect using KontolFreek’s Galaxy Performance Thumbsticks. The mixed height of the pair of thumbsticks also allows for more versatile play as you gain the accuracy and precision bonus with the high-rise thumbstick while your improved movement and strafing are gained by using a mid-rise on the other combine for some lethal gameplay. I encourage anyone new or old to the Rainbow 6 Siege franchise to try out a pair of Galaxy Performance Thumbsticks with increased sensitivity settings to see how much your accuracy and overall gameplay improve.

Recommended Operators For Beginners to Rainbow 6 Siege X

Once you have studied the changes and updates included with the release of Siege X your next challenge will be deciding on the best operator for you to play with and learn. Each operator will come with their own operator guide which is a great way to learn the ins and outs of any operator you are planning to play with and can give you a leg up when it comes to learning their playstyle and how to best utilize their gadgets. From my experience, I have compiled a few top operators that have a low ceiling to learn but a high upside in terms of advantage in the game.

• Sledge (Attacker) - a fan favorite and with his signature tactical sledgehammer you can break through any environment to create new sight advantages or just to get the jump on an unsuspecting enemy. Sledge is a great starting operator with a slower pace and with emphasis on breaching he is perfect for learning maps and getting a feel for the different kinds of destructible advantages.
• Mute (Defender) - Intel is a major factor in Siege X and being able to disrupt the flow of information for attackers can give any team a massive advantage. As the name may imply Mute focuses on anti-recon and disruption with his signal jammer gadget and is able to utilize several gadgets to get the upper hand on enemies. His kit is perfect for learning how to use intel and gadgets to set up your team for success.
• Kapkan (Defender) - Focusing on traps and explosives Kapkan is a fun but useful operator to use to help learn how maps flow during matches and where attackers tend to infiltrate. Nothing is more satisfying than taking out multiple attackers with a well-placed explosive trap and you will quickly flip the tides of any battle while learning map positioning and awareness.

Ubisoft’s Rainbow Siege X update is one of the largest the franchise has seen in recent years and now is as good as ever to get in and learn how to play with friends. Whether you are brand new to the game or a lifetime player this new update has something for everyone and I have enjoyed the new game mode immensely.