Okay, I’ll be honest — every time I take the plunge into a new game that already has a rabid fanbase behind it, I get nervous. With some games that have been popular for so long, coming in as a newbie can be intimidating. That’s how I thought I’d feel when I started playing Rainbow Six Siege. I knew, with Siege X, the game was getting a huge update, and I thought, why not just dive in? There’s no time like right now to start a new game, let’s be honest
And what I quickly learned by playing Rainbow Six Siege is that this game hits different. Best part? You can literally get started for free.
First off, forget everything you think you know about first-person shooters. Siege isn’t about running and gunning like a madman. It’s about brains over bullets. Every match feels less like a chaotic firefight and more like a high-stakes chess game. You’re constantly analysing, strategising, and adapting. Wanna barricade a door? Sick! But where’s your opp going to push next? Is that a soft wall they can breach? The level of tactical depth is honestly mind-blowing, and it keeps every round feeling fresh and exciting. It’s an element I wasn’t expecting or prepared for, but it really added a sense of adrenaline that is a level up on other similar games.
What really sets Siege apart for me is the destructible environments. It’s not just for looks — it’s a core gameplay mechanic. Want to create a murder hole to surprise an unsuspecting attacker? Go for it! Need to blast open a new pathway to flank the enemy? That’s an option too! The ability to essentially reshape the map on the fly adds an entirely new layer of strategy and unpredictability.
But speaking of looks, Siege X brings with it a complete upgrade that sets it apart from the pack. Five classic maps are getting a complete visual modernisation with new lighting, shadows, and double the texture resolution, with PC users also having the option for 4K. More modernised maps are coming in future seasons too. And on top of the destructible environments, the game is also getting “destructible ingredients” like fire extinguishers (which burst with a concussive smoke cloud) and gas pipes (which spout fire and then explode!). This really broadens up strategy and makes your gameplay style feel truly yours.
The biggest change in Siege X, though, is absolutely the addition of Dual Front on all platforms except PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. A new, permanent, 6v6 game mode that really breaks apart from traditional gameplay — great news for a newcomer like me because myself, veterans and even people who haven’t played in a while will all be learning at the same time. Attackers and defenders will be able to be combined on the same team for the first time, which opens up strategic possibilities even more.
Now, I’ll be honest, the learning curve to Rainbow Six Siege can feel a bit steep at first. There’s a lot to take in – the maps are intricate, the operators are diverse, and the tactics are deep. But that’s where the challenge lies! Despite my initial nerves, I was determined to get the hang of it and, as I played more and more, the better my strategy became. I was able to figure out what works for me and lean all the way in. It’s a game that’s so satisfying because you really feel like you earn the W’s you score, and the L’s just teach you more for next time. Plus, the community is really welcoming, and there are tons of resources out there to help you get started.
Oh yes, and I mentioned you can get started for free, right? Beyond the fact that the game has undergone a huge update and beyond the fact that now is the best time to start playing, you’ve got literally nothing to lose because access to the game is completely free!
But trust me, if I’m anything to go by, once you’re into Rainbow Six Siege, you won’t want to get out. Rainbow Six Siege X launches on June 11.