Rainbow Six Siege X has launched its Closed Beta, featuring the exciting new 6v6 game mode, Dual Front. Dive in to discover more about Dual Front and the specifics of the Closed Beta test.
Ubisoft has announced that Rainbow Six Siege X (R6 Siege X) will run its Closed Beta from March 13th at 12 PM PT / 3 PM ET / 8 PM CET until March 19th at the same times. This beta will kick off right after the R6 Siege X Showcase event.
Gamers can secure access to the Closed Beta by tuning into the R6 Siege X Showcase on the official Rainbow 6 Twitch channel or through select Content Creators' Twitch streams, where they can earn Closed Beta Twitch drops. The beta will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
However, some players have reported not receiving the expected email containing their access code. Ubisoft Support has acknowledged this issue on Twitter (X) on March 14 and is working to resolve it promptly.
It's crucial to understand that R6 Siege X isn't a new game but a significant update designed to elevate the game's experience with graphical and technical enhancements.
Ubisoft introduces Dual Front, a dynamic new 6v6 game mode that aims to "deliver foundational upgrades to the core game, including visual enhancements, an audio overhaul, rappel upgrades, and more," alongside improved player protection systems. This mode will be free to access, allowing players to experience Rainbow Six Siege's unique tactical gameplay without cost.
The Dual Front mode takes place on a new map, District, where two teams of six Operators will engage in simultaneous attack and defense strategies across enemy sectors. This marks the first time R6 will feature both attacking and defending Operators concurrently, offering new tactical opportunities.
While Dual Front introduces fresh gameplay dynamics, the classic Siege mode, now dubbed "Core Siege," will remain a staple. Core Siege includes five modernized maps—Clubhouse, Chalet, Border, Bank, and Kafe—with enhanced textures and destructible materials. Initially, only these five maps will be updated, with plans to add three more per season.
After a decade, Rainbow Six Siege will transition to a free-to-play model, aligning with industry trends seen in major competitors. Initially launched in 2015 amidst a landscape dominated by paid multiplayer games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 and Battlefield Hardline, Siege is now embracing the live-service model.
Game Director Alexander Karpazis, speaking at the R6 Siege X Showcase in Atlanta on March 13, emphasized the goal of introducing 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," he said. Karpazis added that the free access reduces barriers to entry, especially when playing with friends.
Free access will include modes like Unranked, Quick Play, and Dual Front, while Ranked mode and the Siege Cup will remain exclusive to premium access holders. This approach, as explained by former game director Leroy Athanassoff in a 2020 interview with PC Gamer, aims to prevent smurfing and cheating by requiring a commitment to the game for competitive play.
Despite reaching its 10-year milestone, Ubisoft never considered creating a sequel, unlike competitors such as Overwatch 2 and Counter-Strike 2. Karpazis explained that the focus was on doing what was best for Siege and its players. "Siege 2 was never on the table," he said, highlighting the ongoing commitment to the game.
Siege X has been in development for about three years, running parallel to Siege’s seasonal updates. Karpazis envisions Siege X as a pivotal moment to implement significant changes, ensuring 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 stated, acknowledging the vital role of the community in the game's success.
Rainbow Six Siege X is scheduled for release on June 10, 2025, and will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest on the game by checking out our Rainbow Six Siege articles below!