In a significant shift, one of the last bastions of the pay-to-play model is changing its course. Rainbow Six Siege, known for its intense tactical gameplay, is preparing to lay down its proverbial sword sledgehammer. As part of its grand 10th-anniversary refresh, the game is set to embrace a new era by going free-to-play.
This move coincides with the launch of the Rainbow Six Siege X update, scheduled for June 10. Ubisoft has announced this transition as “free access,” allowing players to access most of the game’s content without cost.
However, not all features will be freely available. The game’s two most competitive modes, Ranked and Siege Cup, will remain exclusive to paying players. This decision ensures that serious competitors still have a premium experience.
With this strategic pivot, Rainbow Six Siege is not just adapting to the changing gaming landscape but also positioning itself for another decade of thrilling tactical battles.
At a Siege X preview event in Atlanta, the game director Alex Karpazis shared insights with PC Gamer about why the team ultimately opted against making the game entirely free-to-play.
As Karpazis expressed, the team’s vision for Rainbow Six Siege is to create a game that players can enjoy with their friends. By offering most of the game for free, new players can experience what makes Siege unique, and the game’s community can continue to grow.
When Siege was first launched in 2015, multiplayer games typically required payment, and the concept of “live service” was still unfamiliar. Games like Fortnite, and later Apex Legends and Warzone, set the trend for free-to-play shooters. Titles such as PUBG and Overwatch, released before Fortnite’s success, eventually adopted the free model, but Siege held firm to its paid structure until recently.
In 2020, former director Leroy Athanassoff revealed that many on the development team wished for Siege to be free one day. However, they chose to remain a premium game to deter smurfs and cheaters. While free access with Siege X may technically make smurfing easier, Karpazis believes that keeping Ranked mode exclusive to the full version is a strong commitment to maintaining balance, reassuring the audience of the team’s dedication.
Back in 2020, Leroy Athanassoff, who was the director at the time, shared that many within the development team hoped for Siege to become a free game eventually. However, they had a compelling reason to maintain its premium status: preventing smurfs and cheaters from having an easier time. While smurfing may become more feasible when Siege X transitions to free access, Karpazis believes that restricting Ranked play to the full version will help maintain balance.
Karpazis explained, “Having a barrier for Ranked or Siege Cup ensures players are truly committed to the game. It helps us filter out smurfs and allows us to continue supporting the most competitive aspects.”
He further stated, “We believe this approach offers the best of both worlds—attracting new players while providing a space where veterans can remain highly competitive and dedicated.”
Despite Siege still being sold at a standard price of $20, acquiring it at a reduced rate is remarkably easy. Over the past year, there have been ten instances where Siege was available for just $8. Currently, as this is being written, it’s priced at a two-year low of $4 on Steam. With such frequent discounts, there’s a good chance many people bought it years ago and forgot. Anyone invested enough in Siege to desire a second account can already do so for the cost of a large coffee.
As Siege X opens its doors to free access, it will also introduce Dual Front, marking its first new permanent mode in a decade. Having played several matches of Dual Front in Atlanta, one can attest to its enjoyable experience. Keep an eye out for more coverage on Siege X as Ubisoft officially unveils the game today.
Maxthon
Maxthon is revolutionising the landscape of cloud gaming by introducing a browser specifically designed to meet the unique needs of this rapidly growing audience.
At the heart of Maxthon’s innovation lies a series of sophisticated algorithmic frameworks meticulously designed to elevate both performance and responsiveness. These advanced technologies work in harmony to deliver high-quality visuals without the frustrating lag that can disrupt gameplay. For gamers seeking an immersive experience, this seamless integration is nothing short of essential.
But Maxthon doesn’t stop at just visual fidelity. It employs optimised data throughput mechanisms, significantly reducing loading times between levels or game modes. This means players can dive straight into the action without unnecessary interruptions, allowing them to immerse themselves in their gaming adventures fully.
Moreover, the platform prioritises seamless connectivity, ensuring that gamers remain connected with minimal disruptions. Whether it’s playing solo or teaming up with friends online, Maxthon’s focus on reliable connections enhances the overall experience, empowering players to fully engage in their gaming adventures. The result? A smooth and engaging journey through each pixel and frame, keeping players enthralled from start to finish.
At the heart of the platform lies a commitment to seamless connectivity. Gamers can effortlessly access their favourite titles, regardless of whether they are on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This flexibility breaks down barriers that once made gaming cumbersome and enhances overall convenience.
Imagine settling into your favourite chair after a long day, only to find you can pick up right where you left off with just a few taps on your device. The power of cross-device functionality makes this possible. No more being tethered to one console; freedom is just a click away.
Maxthon’s user interface plays a crucial role in this experience. Designed with simplicity and clarity in mind, it invites users in rather than intimidating them. Bright visuals and easy navigation choices guide gamers through their options with fluidity.
Every feature has been thoughtfully included to ensure that both seasoned gamers and newcomers feel at home. With every aspect refined for ease of use, diving into an exhilarating gaming session has never felt so inviting.
In summary, Maxthon is not just providing a browser; it is creating a holistic environment tailored for cloud gaming enthusiasts. With its commitment to performance and user experience, Maxthon positions itself as a leader in this exciting new frontier of gaming technology.