A few days ago, Ubisoft officially unveiled the future of Rainbow Six Siege under the name Siege X. This new version of the game, set to launch on June 9, introduces a new 6v6 mode called Dual Front, enhanced core mechanics (improved graphics, a revamped sound system, and a better rappel system), stronger anti-cheat measures, and—most notably—free access to the game for all players.
Introducing the New Dual Front Mode
This mode takes place on an entirely new map called District and pits two teams of six operators against each other. Players must attack enemy objectives while defending their own.
How Dual Front Works
- Players can choose from a roster of 35 operators, including both attackers and defenders. The available operators will rotate twice per season.
- Each match has two designated objectives for each team.
- Teams must plant a Sabotage Kit (similar to a Defuser) in the enemy’s objective room, then defend it to earn points.
- The ultimate goal is to destroy the enemy’s base (Base) before they destroy yours.
For the first time, attackers and defenders can be on the same team, opening up new tactical possibilities and allowing players to combine operator abilities in creative ways.
Key Features of Dual Front:
✔️ Respawning is enabled, allowing players to test different strategies mid-match.
✔️ The large map (bigger than most existing Siege maps) offers new angles, ambush opportunities, and neutral zones for free movement and trap placement.
✔️ Timed missions appear in neutral zones, rewarding teams that complete them with special bonuses.
How to Access the Dual Front Beta
The beta version of Dual Front is available until March 19 on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. You can get a beta access code by linking your Ubisoft account to Twitch and watching a Ubisoft-backed streamer.
Note: You do not need to own the base game Rainbow Six Siege to try the beta. The full version of Dual Front will be permanently available on June 9 and will be completely free on next-gen consoles and PC.
Upgrades to Core Mechanics in Siege X
The improvements in Siege X aren’t just for Dual Front—they also apply to the classic 5v5 modes. Here’s what’s coming to Siege:
Modernized 5v5 Maps
✔️ Updated lighting & new shadows – Your own shadow is now visible, so be careful not to reveal your position!
✔️ Higher-resolution textures – The game now supports 2x better resolution textures and optional 4K texture packs for PC.
✔️ More destructible environments – Walls and objects are more breakable, enhancing the game’s famous destruction mechanics.
Five maps will receive updates at launch: Clubhouse, Chalet, Border, Bank, and Kafe. Three more maps will be modernized each season.
New Destructible Items & Environmental Effects
✔️ Red gas pipes – When hit, they leak fire, covering an area with flames similar to Tachanka’s gadget. Shooting them multiple times accelerates the explosion.
✔️ Fire extinguishers – When shot, they explode, creating a large smoke cloud. Any operator caught in the blast will be temporarily disoriented with a new animation effect.
✔️ Metal detectors – Now fully destructible using explosives like Ash’s gadget or temporarily disabled with EMP devices.
Enhanced Rappel System
✔️ Smoother animations for more natural movement.
✔️ Wall-running horizontally while rappelling.
✔️ Corner transitions without having to drop and re-rappel.
These changes make movement faster and more flexible, giving players more tactical options.
New Sound System
Ubisoft has completely overhauled the audio system, making it easier to track enemy movement based on sound.
✔️ Footsteps now sound different based on the surface type (wood, metal, concrete).
✔️ Improved directional audio, helping players locate enemies more accurately.
For example, footsteps on wood will sound different from metal, allowing better enemy tracking.
New Communication & Interaction Features
✔️ Communication Wheel – A new ping system allows players without a microphone to communicate and mark specific activities.
✔️ Weapon Inspection – Players can now view their weapon skins in-game.
✔️ New Ban & Pick System for Ranked Matches – Teams select operators simultaneously to speed up the process, and new picks can be made after switching between attack and defense.
These updates streamline gameplay and allow for better team coordination.
The New R6 Shield Guard Anti-Cheat System
Ubisoft is bringing all its anti-cheat tools under one unified system called R6 Shield Guard. This includes:
- Cheat Detection
- Mousetrap (detects mouse and keyboard use on consoles)
- QB & Binary Hardening (anti-hack measures)
New anti-cheat features:
✔️ Live Security Updates – No more scheduled downtime for cheat updates.
✔️ Reputation System – Toxic players will have their game access restricted.
✔️ Players labeled “Dishonorable” will be banned from Ranked mode for a set period.
Ubisoft’s goal is to make Siege a fairer, less toxic experience for all players.
Rainbow Six Siege is Going Free-to-Play!
Starting in Year 10, Season 2 (Operation Prep Phase is currently active), Rainbow Six Siege will become free-to-play!
What’s Included in the Free Version?
✔️ Access to 10 operators at the start.
✔️ 26 additional operators unlocked through gameplay.
✔️ Game modes available for free:
- Unranked Mode
- Quick Play
- Dual Front
How to Unlock Ranked Mode & Siege Cup
- Players must reach Level 50 to unlock Ranked Mode & Siege Cup.
- Upgrading to the premium version grants instant access to more operators.
Rewards for Existing Siege Players
If you already own Rainbow Six Siege, you will:
✔️ Keep all previously unlocked content (game modes, operators, skins, levels, etc.).
✔️ Receive exclusive veteran rewards to showcase your status.
Ubisoft wants to thank longtime players for their loyalty by giving them unique in-game items to display their experience and achievements.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Rainbow Six Siege
With Siege X, Ubisoft is bringing a massive overhaul to Rainbow Six Siege, including:
✔️ The introduction of the 6v6 Dual Front mode
✔️ A complete revamp of core mechanics
✔️ A brand-new anti-cheat system
✔️ Modernized maps and destructible environments
✔️ Improved movement, sound, and communication tools
✔️ Transitioning to a free-to-play model
These changes mark a new era for Rainbow Six Siege, making it more accessible, tactical, and competitive than ever before.
