Dive into the exciting world of Rainbow Six Siege X as it launches its Closed Beta, spotlighting the innovative 6v6 game mode, Dual Front. Get all the details on this new mode and what to expect from the closed beta test.
Rainbow Six Siege X Showcase Unveils Exciting Updates
Closed Beta Kicks Off March 13, 2025
Ubisoft has officially announced that the Closed Beta for Rainbow Six Siege X (R6 Siege X) will commence on March 13th at 12 PM PT / 3 PM ET/ 8 PM CET, right after the R6 Siege X Showcase concludes. The beta will run until March 19th at the same times.
To gain access to the R6 Siege X Closed Beta, fans can tune into the R6 Siege X Showcase on the official Rainbow 6 Twitch channel or through various Content Creators' Twitch livestreams to earn Closed Beta Twitch drops. The beta will be accessible on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms.
However, some players have reported not receiving the expected email containing the access code. Ubisoft Support has acknowledged this issue via a tweet on March 14 and is actively working to resolve it.
It's crucial to understand that R6 Siege X is not a standalone new game but a significant update that aims to elevate the game with enhanced graphics and technical improvements.
Introducing the 6v6 Game Mode: Dual Front
Ubisoft has unveiled Dual Front, a thrilling new 6v6 game mode designed to bring fundamental upgrades to the core gameplay. This includes visual enhancements, audio improvements, updated rappel mechanics, and more. Additionally, it introduces revamped player protection systems and offers free access for players to dive into the tactical action of Rainbow Six Siege.
Set on the new District map, Dual Front pits two teams of six Operators against each other, simultaneously attacking and defending sectors. This unique setup opens up new strategic possibilities with gadget combinations and tactical plays.
While the Dual Front mode introduces fresh dynamics, the classic Siege mode, now renamed "Core Siege," will continue to be available. Core Siege will feature updated versions of five iconic maps—Clubhouse, Chalet, Border, Bank, and Kafe—with doubled texture resolution, optional 4K textures on PC, and enhanced destructible environments. Ubisoft plans to update three more maps each season moving forward.
Free Access Begins in Season 2 of Year 10
In a significant move, Rainbow Six Siege will transition to a free-to-play model starting in Season 2 of Year 10. This decision aligns with the evolving gaming industry, where live-service games have become more prevalent since the game's initial launch in 2015.
During the R6 Siege X Showcase in Atlanta on March 13, Game Director Alexander Karpazis shared with PC Gamer that the team aims to open the game to new players. "We want people to invite their friends to try out Siege, and we want to give them the majority of the game so that they understand what makes this game so special," Karpazis explained. He emphasized the social aspect, stating, "That reduces the barrier [to entry], because honestly Siege is at its best when you've got friends playing with you."
The free access will cover game modes such as Unranked, Quick Play, and Dual Front. However, access to Ranked mode and the Siege Cup will require a premium purchase. This approach, as former game director Leroy Athanassoff mentioned in a 2020 interview with PC Gamer, aims to deter smurfs and cheaters. "Having that barrier to Ranked or Siege Cup means you have to be committed to the game," Athanassoff said. Karpazis added, "It is, in our opinion, the best of both worlds where you can bring in new players but also have this place where veterans feel super competitive and committed to the game."
No Plans for Siege 2
Despite reaching its 10-year milestone, Ubisoft has no plans to develop a sequel, Rainbow Six Siege 2. Game Director Alexander Karpazis clarified during the showcase that the focus remains on enhancing the current game. "Siege 2 was never on the table," he stated, emphasizing that many live-service games are reevaluating their approach as they hit similar anniversaries. "We just had to do what was right for Siege and what was right for players as well," Karpazis added.
Siege X has been in development for about three years, running parallel to the game's seasonal updates. Karpazis highlighted that Siege X is intended to ensure the game's longevity for another decade. "Siege X, for us, is a moment where we want to make big, meaningful changes to the game. We want to show that, yes, we're here for another 10 years, and we want to respect the people who brought us here so far," he said.
He also acknowledged the vital role of the community, stating, "You don't get to 10 years as a live service game without the community that built you up."
Rainbow Six Siege X is slated for release on June 10, 2025, across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Keep up with the latest news and updates by checking out our Rainbow Six Siege article below!
