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Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction
Item: Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, Crime, Horror, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableJan 20, 2022

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 5

DeveloperUbisoft Montreal

Overview

Assemble your elite team of Rainbow Six Operators to launch incursions in the unpredictable containment zones and face off against an evolving Alien threat. Band together and put everything on the line as you take on this unknown enemy.

Elsewhere

5.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics appreciate the intriguing premise of Rainbow Six Extraction and its cooperative gameplay but largely agree that the story is thin and disjointed. While the alien threat adds freshness, the lack of depth, character development, and a cohesive narrative disappoints many, making the story feel like mere backdrop to the action. Overall, the game excels in gameplay but falters in delivering a compelling narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

22%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of critics regarding the story of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction reveal a mix of appreciation for its premise and execution. Several reviewers, such as CGMagazine and NME, highlight the unique storyline involving an alien parasitic threat that the REACT team must combat, presenting it as a fresh direction for the franchise. Critics like Daily Star and MondoXbox commend the game's lore, noting that it provides a compelling backdrop for the gameplay, with engaging elements such as the mysterious Chimera Parasite and the cooperative missions. The integration of familiar characters from the Rainbow Six universe and the tactical gameplay mechanics were also seen as positives, with some critics feeling that the narrative supports the gameplay effectively, as noted by Screen Rant and Metro GameCentral. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that the story lacks depth and cohesion. Critics such as IGN Italia, GamingTrend, and Gamer.nl point out that the narrative feels disjointed, with missions lacking a significant overarching storyline or character development. Many reviews describe the story as thin or superficial, with BaziCenter and We Got This Covered emphasizing its clichéd nature and "hollow" execution. The absence of a traditional campaign mode, as noted by Trusted Reviews and GameCritics, limits the narrative's potential, leading to a repetitive gameplay loop that detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Rainbow Six Extraction has an intriguing premise, it ultimately fails to deliver a compelling narrative. The majority of reviewers, including IGN Spain and Press Start Australia, agree that the story serves more as set dressing rather than a driving force behind the gameplay. Many critics express disappointment in the lack of depth, memorable characters, and a cohesive storyline, leading to a perception that the game prioritizes gameplay over narrative substance. This sentiment is echoed across multiple reviews, suggesting that while the game may appeal to fans of cooperative shooters, its storytelling leaves much to be desired.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction excels in teamwork and tactical gameplay, praised for its cooperative mechanics and varied missions. However, it suffers from repetitive missions and lacks the intensity fans expect from the franchise, with simple AI and balancing issues in solo play detracting from the experience. While it offers a solid foundation for tactical shooters, it falls short of delivering the dynamic thrills of past titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction has garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its emphasis on teamwork and tactical mechanics. Several reviewers, such as ComicBook and Digital Chumps, highlighted the strategic gameplay that encourages players to utilize distinct Operator abilities effectively. The game’s cooperative nature is often commended, with critics like Gamers' Temple and Hardcore Gamer noting the importance of collaboration and communication among players. Additionally, the incorporation of varied mission types and randomized objectives, as mentioned by Dexerto and Gfinity, adds a layer of replayability that can keep the experience engaging, particularly for those who enjoy tactical shooters. However, there are significant criticisms regarding the gameplay's depth and variety. Many reviewers, including Gamepressure and Inverse, pointed out that the missions can feel repetitive and lack the excitement that fans might expect from a Rainbow Six title. Critics like BaziCenter and IGN Adria echoed these sentiments, suggesting that the gameplay lacks the intense, tactical moments that characterized Rainbow Six Siege, leading to a more mundane experience. The AI's simplicity and predictability, as noted by We Got This Covered and SpazioGames, further detract from the overall challenge and engagement of the gameplay. Additionally, issues with balancing difficulty, especially in solo play, were highlighted by VG247 and TrueAchievements, indicating that the game can be unforgiving for players without a coordinated team. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Rainbow Six Extraction offers a solid foundation for tactical gameplay and cooperative mechanics, it struggles with depth and variety, leading to a somewhat repetitive experience. Critics such as Games.cz and PlayStation Universe emphasized the frenetic nature of gameplay that often overshadows the tactical elements, while others like Gamer.no and Daily Star appreciated the methodical approach but acknowledged the challenges in balancing difficulty. Ultimately, while the game has its strengths in teamwork and strategic play, it appears to fall short of delivering the thrilling, dynamic encounters that fans of the franchise may have hoped for.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction boasts smooth performance and atmospheric visuals on platforms like PS5, winning some praise for its tension and lighting. However, critics largely slam its graphics as bland and uninspired, citing repetitive maps and outdated design that fail to impress as a next-gen title. Overall, it's seen as a technical step forward but lacks the visual innovation players expected.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction have received a mixed reception from critics, with some reviewers highlighting certain positive aspects. For instance, several critics praised the game's atmosphere and technical performance, noting that it runs smoothly on various platforms, including PS5 and Xbox Series X. Critics like Gamer.no and IGN France commended the visuals for their smooth performance and high-quality graphical standard, with Gamer.no specifically mentioning that the graphics look very good on PS5. Additionally, some reviews pointed out the effective use of lighting and atmospheric elements, such as the "moody and tense atmosphere" described by Gfinity and the "visually haunting atmospheres" noted by Shacknews, which contribute to the overall immersive experience. However, the majority of reviews lean towards a more critical perspective, focusing on the game's visual shortcomings. Many critics described the graphics as "bland," "uninspired," and "ugly." For example, We Got This Covered and Trusted Reviews both pointed out that the maps lack distinctive features, leading to a repetitive and uninspired visual experience. Critics like Games.cz and ComicBook echoed these sentiments, citing a lack of originality in character and environment design, which detracts from player investment. The aging engine used for the game, as noted by GameMAG, has resulted in subpar visuals and texture streaming issues that further diminish the game's graphical appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction delivers a technically competent experience with some atmospheric elements, it ultimately falls short in terms of visual innovation and design. Many reviewers agree that the game feels like a continuation of Rainbow Six Siege rather than a significant evolution, with numerous criticisms aimed at its lack of variety and originality. Critics such as IGN Adria and AusGamers highlighted that the game does not appear to be a next-gen title, which has led to disappointment among players expecting a more visually striking experience. The combination of these factors has led to a generally lukewarm reception regarding the graphics and visual design of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Rainbow Six Extraction's sound design and music receive mixed reviews. Critics praise its immersive audio experience and effective use of unique cues, enhancing gameplay tension. However, many find the sound design forgettable and lacking innovation, with some elements feeling muted and generic. While the audio contributes to atmosphere, it doesn't meet the high bar set by Rainbow Six Siege, leading to polarized opinions on its effectiveness.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction have garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly highlighting the immersive audio experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and Gamer.no praised the sound design for its ability to enhance tension and immersion, with specific mentions of unique audio cues that contribute to the haunting atmosphere of the game. Press Start Australia noted the fantastic musical score, which complements the alien environment and enhances the overall experience. Additionally, Player 2 emphasized the effective use of audio cues as reconnaissance tools, while CGMagazine recommended high-quality audio setups for maximum immersion, indicating that the sound design plays a crucial role in gameplay dynamics. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music, particularly concerning the lack of innovation and memorability. BaziCenter and IGN Adria described the sound design as forgettable, with IGN Italia echoing this sentiment by stating that it does not stand out compared to its predecessor, Siege. Some critics, like AusGamers and COGconnected, pointed out that the audio elements felt muted or generic, detracting from the intended horror atmosphere. Furthermore, the inconsistency in audio quality was highlighted by GameMAG, indicating that not all aspects of the sound design were executed effectively. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed reception for the sound design and music in Rainbow Six Extraction. While many reviewers acknowledged the immersive qualities and effective audio cues that enhance gameplay, there is a significant number who found the sound design lacking in distinctiveness and innovation. Critics like Dexerto and Gfinity recognized the superb audio design contributing to the tense atmosphere, but others, such as IGN Adria and AusGamers, felt that the audio did not leave a lasting impression. This dichotomy indicates that while the sound design has its strengths, it also falls short of the high expectations set by its predecessor, Rainbow Six Siege, leading to a somewhat polarized view of the overall audio experience in the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction features strong voice acting that adds personality and professionalism, enhancing immersion, particularly for non-English players. However, critics note significant shortcomings, including repetitive lines and missed opportunities for deeper character interactions, leading to a mixed reception overall. While the performances shine, they ultimately fall short of fully tapping into the richness of the game's lore.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction has garnered some positive feedback from various critics. Worth Playing highlights that the voice work is delivered convincingly, avoiding any lines that might come off as corny or out of place, which suggests a level of professionalism in the performances. Additionally, VG247 notes that the voice acting adds personality to the operators, enhancing their character within the game. The inclusion of localized audio and text, as mentioned by MondoXbox, further enriches the experience for players who engage with the game in languages other than English, indicating a thoughtful approach to accessibility and immersion. However, several criticisms regarding the voice acting have emerged from the reviews. IGN Adria describes the voice acting as being limited to pre-recorded cutscenes that resemble mediocre sci-fi trailers, which detracts from the narrative depth that players might expect. The Loadout echoes this sentiment by pointing out the lack of worthwhile character moments and interactions, suggesting that while the operators have established lore from Rainbow Six Siege, the game fails to capitalize on these opportunities for deeper engagement. Furthermore, Games.cz mentions that repetitive communication from advisors can become annoying over time, indicating that the voice acting may lack variety and depth in gameplay contexts. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the voice acting in Rainbow Six Extraction has its merits, particularly in terms of delivery and character personality, it is hampered by limitations in frequency and depth. Critics like The Loadout and IGN Adria emphasize the missed opportunities for meaningful interactions, while others like VG247 and Worth Playing acknowledge the positive aspects of the performances. Ultimately, the voice acting appears to be a mixed bag, providing some enjoyment but failing to fully realize the potential of its well-established characters.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction shines technically on PS5 and Xbox Series X, earning praise for smooth performance and optimization. While PC also performs well, minor issues like crashes and connectivity glitches have been noted, particularly on PS5. Critics appreciate the cross-platform functionality, marking a solid overall experience despite some bugs and network concerns. Ubisoft delivers a polished product, but there's room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction has received generally positive feedback across all platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Reviewers such as Atomix and IGN Italia praised the PS5 version for its solid performance, stable frame rates, and overall optimization, with Gamer.no highlighting the smooth experience even on aging hardware. Similarly, critics like CGMagazine and Game Informer noted the Xbox Series X's impressive technical aspects, with smooth gameplay and high resolutions. On PC, the game has been commended for its optimization, with multiple reviewers, including AusGamers and CD-Action, reporting minimal performance issues and stable gameplay across various hardware configurations. However, some negative aspects were noted, particularly concerning the PS5 version, where Wccftech reported multiple crashes and connectivity issues that could lead to penalties during multiplayer matches. PlaySense mentioned minimal bugs but criticized the underutilization of DualSense controller features, while Noisy Pixel flagged a connection issue that could disrupt gameplay. On the Xbox Series X, GameMAG pointed out problems with texture streaming on older consoles, and while most reviews were positive, some minor graphical bugs were mentioned by Generación Xbox. For PC, while the overall performance was praised, Gamersky raised concerns about network stability affecting gameplay, particularly with the MIA system. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Rainbow Six Extraction delivers a well-optimized experience across all platforms, with PS5 and Xbox Series X performing particularly well. While there are some reported issues, especially concerning connectivity and minor bugs, the majority of reviewers agree that the game is technically sound and stable. The cross-platform functionality received appreciation from several critics, including Worth Playing and Gamer.no, indicating that the game is designed to provide a seamless experience across different systems. The positive sentiment surrounding the technical performance suggests that Ubisoft has made significant strides in delivering a polished product, despite some areas needing improvement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Reviewers have mixed but generally positive views on Rainbow Six Extraction's replay value, praising its diverse operator system, cooperative gameplay, and endgame content. However, many criticize its repetitive missions and grind-heavy progression, which can dampen long-term engagement. Solo play is less appealing, making it a better fit for co-op fans. Critics hope for substantial post-launch content from Ubisoft to enhance sustainability and replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction reveal a mixed but generally positive sentiment among some reviewers. Critics like CGMagazine and Metro GameCentral highlight the game's replay value through its diverse operator unlocking system, various mission types, and cooperative gameplay, which can provide a fresh experience for players. The presence of endgame content, such as the Maelstrom Protocol and other challenges, is noted by reviewers like Everyeye.it and MondoXbox as a way to keep players engaged beyond the initial playthrough. Additionally, the randomized mission generation and different difficulty levels, as mentioned by Press Start Australia and Jeuxvideo.com, contribute to a dynamic gaming experience that encourages players to revisit missions. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replayability due to its repetitive nature. Inverse and Games.cz point out that the lack of variety in objectives and environments can lead to a feeling of monotony, especially after players have unlocked all locations or reached a certain level with their operators. Critics such as Game Rant and MMORPG.com emphasize that the grind for progression can feel artificially inflated, detracting from the overall enjoyment. Furthermore, solo play is often described as less engaging, with reviewers like Twinfinite and Comicbook.com noting that the game shines more in cooperative settings, which may limit its appeal for players who prefer single-player experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Rainbow Six Extraction offers some replay value through its mechanics and cooperative gameplay, the limitations posed by repetitive missions and objectives hinder its long-term engagement potential. Many reviewers, including NME and IGN Italia, echo concerns about the game's sustainability without substantial post-launch content updates from Ubisoft. The hope for future improvements and additional content is a recurring theme, with critics like Daily Star and Gamer.no expressing optimism that ongoing support could enhance the game's replay value in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction has garnered a mixed reception from critics, with several reviewers praising its cooperative gameplay and tactical depth. For instance, Gamers Heroes lauds it as one of the most intense co-op experiences available, showcasing the best shooting mechanics from Siege. Similarly, Press Start Australia highlights the game's strong cooperative PvE experience and strategic gameplay elements, while NME appreciates the engaging alien invasion concept that retools Siege mechanics effectively. Critics like IGN Portugal and Shacknews also commend the enjoyable gameplay and diverse character options, suggesting that the game can be a fun experience, especially when played with friends. However, many reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in Rainbow Six Extraction. A recurring theme among critics is the game's repetitiveness and lack of innovation, with Gamepressure and We Got This Covered labeling it as disappointing and shallow. IGN Adria echoes this sentiment, describing it as a glorified zombie mode of Siege that fails to excite. Critics such as BaziCenter and Inverse criticize the game for feeling more like an expansion rather than a standalone title, and Power Unlimited mentions a frustrating progression system that detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, concerns regarding a lack of content and identity are raised by multiple reviewers, including Trusted Reviews and Gamer.nl, who feel that the game does not fully capitalize on the strengths of its predecessor. The overall consensus among critics appears to be that while Rainbow Six Extraction offers engaging cooperative gameplay and a solid foundation, it ultimately falls short in several key areas. Many reviewers, including those from Multiplayer.it and VG247, acknowledge the potential for fun in co-op play but highlight issues such as repetitive missions, lack of depth, and a high price point that may deter players. The game is seen as a mixed bag, with some critics like Dexerto and GamesRadar+ offering a more favorable view, but the prevailing sentiment is that it lacks the innovation and content necessary to sustain long-term interest. As a result, Rainbow Six Extraction is viewed as a decent but flawed entry in the Rainbow Six franchise, with many suggesting that it requires further updates and improvements to reach its full potential.

TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction has a mixed reception; praised for intense co-op gameplay and tactical depth, but criticized for repetitiveness, lack of innovation, and feeling more like an expansion than a standalone title. While fun with friends, it suffers from a frustrating progression system and content shortcomings. Critics agree it’s a decent but flawed addition to the franchise, needing updates to truly shine.

MONSTER

Reviews

198 reviews found

100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Jan 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Rainbow Six: Extraction is a tactical experience that will be enjoyed by those who liked the tactical aspects of Rainbow Six: Siege but were put off by the PvP elements.

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Gamers Heroes

PlayStation 5

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction is praised as one of the most intense and exciting co-op experiences available today. It is seen as an incredible addition to the Siege universe and a fantastic demonstration of innovation in the genre.

The Loadout

PlayStation 5

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction is a refreshing and tactical co-op shooter that could set a new benchmark for the genre with enough support and new content.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction is a successful cooperative shooter that combines tactical gameplay with engaging content, making it enjoyable and rewarding.

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Worth Playing

PlayStation 5

Jan 20, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six: Extraction is a compelling PvE experience for Rainbow Six fans, offering a mix of tactical gameplay, challenging mechanics, and replay value. It provides a solid alternative for those seeking PvE content and single-player fans looking for Siege elements.

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MondoXbox

Xbox Series X

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction successfully combines cooperative gameplay with a compelling story and solid mechanics, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

COGconnected

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction is a competent shooter that is best enjoyed with a three-player squad. It is functional as a single-player game but challenging and not super rewarding. The mechanics and missions are interesting, but the lack of originality in alien designs and the absence of a campaign or extra modes at launch are drawbacks.

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GameStar

Jan 19, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A cooperative shooter with a solid story and enjoyable gameplay.

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jan 20, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction is described as a thrilling, tense PvE game that implements the best shooting mechanics from Siege. It offers a challenge that only Rainbow Six can provide, despite lacking deep progression and evolving objectives. The game's success in the long term remains to be seen.

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Meristation

Xbox Series X

Jan 20, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Rainbow Six Extraction is a well-crafted cooperative shooter that offers a unique experience with its tactical gameplay and variety of challenges, making it a recommended purchase for genre enthusiasts.

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