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Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege

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

2015

GenresAction, Shooter, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableDec 1, 2015

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperUbisoft Montreal

Overview

Inspired by the reality of counter terrorist operatives across the world, Rainbow Six Siege invites players to master the art of destruction. Intense close quarters confrontations, high lethality, tactics, team play, and explosive action are at the center of the experience. The multiplayer gameplay of Rainbow Six Siege sets a new bar for intense firefights and expert strategy in the rich legacy of past Rainbow Six games.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics praise Rainbow Six Siege for its engaging multiplayer and intriguing premise, but overwhelmingly lament the absence of a cohesive narrative and traditional single-player campaign. Despite hints of a deeper story, the game feels hollow and aimless, leaving players dissatisfied with its lack of meaningful context and depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

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

The opinions of various critics on the story of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege reveal a few positive aspects, particularly regarding the game's premise and its approach to gameplay. DarkStation notes that the opening cinematic effectively establishes the game's premise, setting a foundation for the action that follows. GameCrate highlights a surprisingly deep story framework involving the reactivation of the Rainbow program to combat a terrorist organization called The White Masks. Additionally, PlaySense acknowledges the game's focus on the reestablishment of the Rainbow Program, suggesting that while the narrative may not be traditional, there are elements that provide context to the gameplay. This indicates that some critics appreciate the underlying themes and the effort to create a backdrop for the multiplayer experience. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is one of disappointment regarding the lack of a cohesive narrative. Many reviewers, including Impulsegamer and Gaming Age, criticize the absence of a traditional single-player campaign, describing the game as lacking in narrative depth and feeling hollow. The 'Situations' mode, which serves as a series of training missions rather than a full-fledged story, is frequently mentioned as inadequate, with critics like Washington Post and Critical Hit expressing that these scenarios lack meaningful context or characterization. Furthermore, Slant Magazine and PC Gamer emphasize the game's aimlessness and the absence of a strong narrative, indicating a consensus that the storytelling aspect is severely lacking. Overall, the critics largely agree that while Rainbow Six Siege offers an engaging multiplayer experience, it fails to deliver a satisfying narrative or campaign. The majority of reviewers, including those from Game Informer and Gamer.no, point out that the game focuses primarily on multiplayer gameplay, leaving behind a traditional story mode that many fans of the franchise might expect. While there are hints of a deeper narrative framework, as mentioned by critics like GameCrate, the general consensus is that the game feels incomplete in terms of storytelling, leading to a sense of emptiness that detracts from the overall experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege is lauded for its tactical gameplay, teamwork emphasis, and destructible environments, delivering a thrilling multiplayer experience. Critics praise its strategic depth but flag design flaws, inadequate tutorials, and content limitations as major drawbacks. While it shines as a competitive shooter, its long-term appeal faces challenges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege has garnered considerable praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its tactical depth and strategic elements. Reviewers such as Game Informer and GameCrate commend the game for its emphasis on teamwork, communication, and the unique abilities of its Operators. The destructible environments are frequently noted as a standout feature, allowing for dynamic gameplay that requires players to adapt their strategies in real-time. Critics from Hardcore Gamer and GameStar appreciate the immersive nature of the gameplay, which encourages careful listening and planning, while others like Kill Screen and ZTGD celebrate the satisfaction derived from executing well-coordinated plans within the team-based format. Overall, the game is recognized for providing a thrilling and engaging multiplayer experience that rewards methodical gameplay over reflex-based shooting. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Multiplayer.it and Washington Post highlight design flaws, such as the ability for dead players to assist their team, which can detract from the competitive integrity of the matches. Additionally, Hardcore Gamer mentions loose shooting mechanics and limited content as factors that hinder the overall experience. The tutorial has been criticized for being inadequate in preparing players for the multiplayer environment, as noted by PlayStation Universe. Furthermore, Metro GameCentral and others express concerns about the limited game modes and reliance on microtransactions, which could impact player engagement in the long run. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that while Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege offers a compelling and tactical gameplay experience that emphasizes teamwork and strategy, it is not without its flaws. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN and PC Gamer, affirm that the game excels in creating intense and strategic encounters, making it one of the best in the competitive shooter genre. However, the criticisms regarding design issues and content limitations suggest that there is room for improvement. Ultimately, the game is celebrated for its innovative approach to multiplayer gameplay, but it also faces challenges that could affect its long-term appeal.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Rainbow Six Siege’s graphics receive mixed reviews; praised for destructible environments and character design, but criticized for mediocre visuals and technical issues. While some critics appreciate the immersive gameplay, others find the overall visual fidelity lacking, indicating room for improvement despite engaging mechanics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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 Siege have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly regarding the game's destructible environments and strategic level design. Reviewers like Push Square and Metro GameCentral highlighted the impressive destruction mechanics, which not only enhance the gameplay experience but also contribute to a sense of realism and immersion. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded and Game Rant noted that the game features well-crafted environments and detailed weapon designs, with some reviewers describing the visuals as clean and visually appealing. The attention to detail in character design, especially the unique and intimidating looks of the operatives, received commendation from The Jimquisition, emphasizing the game's strong thematic elements. However, the overall sentiment regarding the graphics is not uniformly positive, as many critics pointed out significant shortcomings. Arcade Sushi and Atomix expressed disappointment in the visual presentation, labeling the graphics as mediocre and simplistic. Critics like Multiplayer.it and NZGamer echoed these sentiments, noting the lack of detail in textures and lighting, which detracted from the overall visual experience. Furthermore, several reviews mentioned technical issues, such as graphical glitches and minor hitches, which were highlighted by Attack of the Fanboy and Hardcore Gamer, leading to a perception that the game's visuals may not meet modern standards. In summary, the consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Rainbow Six Siege is mixed. While there are strong points in terms of destructibility and character design, many reviewers feel that the game falls short in overall visual fidelity and detail. Critics like IGN and Vandal pointed out that while the game may not be the best-looking shooter on the market, it compensates for its graphical limitations with engaging gameplay mechanics and strategic depth. Ultimately, the visuals serve their purpose in supporting the game's core mechanics, but they leave room for improvement, as reflected in the diverse opinions of the critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design in Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, praising its immersive audio cues that enhance gameplay and strategic depth. While some point out issues with realism and minor technical glitches, the consensus is clear: the game's exceptional sound design is a standout feature that intensifies the overall experience, making it a crucial element for tactical gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, including Arcade Sushi and IGN, highlight the game's exceptional sound effects, which enhance gameplay by providing detailed audio cues that inform players of their surroundings and the actions of opponents. Critics like Impulsegamer and PlaySense emphasize how the immersive audio experience contributes significantly to the game's intensity, with environmental sounds such as footsteps and creaking floorboards creating a palpable atmosphere. The focus on positional audio, as noted by PlayStation LifeStyle, adds to the strategic depth of the game, allowing players to utilize sound as a tactical advantage during firefights. Despite the praise, some critics point out certain shortcomings in the sound design. GameOver.gr notes that the sound design can lack realism at times, which may detract from the overall immersive experience. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciate the minimalistic approach to the soundtrack, with critics like PSX Extreme and Softpedia arguing that the absence of a traditional score enhances the focus on sound cues, others feel that this could lead to a less engaging audio experience during gameplay. Some technical issues, such as audio cutting out, were mentioned by Game Revolution, indicating that while the sound design is generally praised, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design in Rainbow Six Siege is a standout feature that significantly enhances the gameplay experience. Reviewers consistently commend the game's ability to create tension and immersion through its audio cues, with many, including Guardian and PC Gamer, noting that sound plays a crucial role in the tactical elements of the game. While there are some criticisms regarding realism and occasional technical issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the audio design is a key aspect that elevates the game's strategic depth and overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege is praised for its quality and talent, particularly with Angela Bassett's involvement, enhancing cinematic elements. However, critics argue her performance is underutilized and lacks narrative depth, leading to inconsistent voice quality throughout the game. While there are standout moments, overall execution falls short, missing opportunities for deeper engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The voice acting in Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege has garnered a mix of appreciation for its quality and the talent involved. Critics such as DarkStation and PlayStation LifeStyle have praised the cinematic aspects of the game, highlighting that the opening cinematic is well-acted and that some cinematics feature high graphical quality alongside strong voice performances. The inclusion of Angela Bassett, as noted by GameCrate, adds a layer of prestige to the voice cast, as she is a well-respected actress. This recognition of talent suggests that the game has made commendable efforts in securing quality voice performances, which can enhance the overall narrative experience. However, several reviewers have pointed out shortcomings in the execution of the voice acting. Critical Hit specifically mentions that Angela Bassett's motion-captured performance feels underutilized, resulting in a lack of narrative depth. Yahoo! echoes this sentiment by noting that while Bassett provides voiceovers, her limited screen time diminishes her impact on the game's storytelling. Post Arcade's observation that voice acting is acknowledged mainly in cinematic sequences without a detailed evaluation further emphasizes the inconsistency in the game's overall voice performance quality. This suggests that while there are moments of excellence, they may not be fully realized throughout the entire game. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a recognition of the potential within the voice acting of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege, particularly through its cinematic elements and the involvement of high-profile talent like Angela Bassett. However, there is a clear sentiment of disappointment regarding the underutilization of such talent and the unevenness of voice performances throughout the game. Critics like Critical Hit and Yahoo! highlight the missed opportunities for deeper narrative engagement, suggesting that while the voice acting has its strengths, it ultimately falls short of delivering a consistently impactful experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege shows mixed technical performance across platforms. PS4 and PS5 boast stable servers and good sound, but suffer from disconnects and frame rate drops. Xbox One players experience hit detection issues and matchmaking problems. PC performance is hit-or-miss, with some smooth gameplay overshadowed by netcode and server bugs. Critics agree: while there are strengths, significant technical issues undermine player experience and longevity. Improvements in network stability and optimization are urgently needed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

26%

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

The technical performance of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with each platform showcasing its own strengths. On the PlayStation 4, critics like Game Rant and PSX Extreme noted the game’s reliable servers and stable frame rates, contributing to an enjoyable experience. Atomix highlighted well-executed technical aspects, particularly sound mixing, which adds to the immersive gameplay. The PS5 version, as mentioned by Push Square, has also been praised for its stability, allowing new players to experience the game at optimal capacity. On Xbox One, Destructoid reported a generally reliable experience with no major server issues, while CGMagazine noted smooth gameplay despite some freezing incidents. For PC players, there are instances of solid performance, as highlighted by GamingTrend and Games.cz, who reported no technical issues and smooth gameplay overall. However, the negatives are equally pronounced across platforms. On PS4, critics like Kill Screen and Post Arcade pointed to troubling network support, with frequent disconnects and bugs that detract from the overall experience. The frame rate drops in Terrorist Hunt mode were also a common concern, as noted by Telegraph and VideoGamer, indicating inconsistencies that can impact gameplay. Xbox One players faced their share of issues, with critics like Game Informer and We Got This Covered mentioning hit detection problems, server errors, and unstable matchmaking that can disrupt the gaming experience. On PC, the situation is mixed; while some critics like PC Gamer reported smooth performance, others, including Game Revolution and Hardcore Gamer, highlighted persistent issues with netcode, server errors, and bugs that negatively affect gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed but cautious sentiment regarding the technical performance of Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege across all platforms. While there are notable strengths, such as stable servers on PS4 and Xbox One, and some reports of good optimization on PC, the game is marred by various technical issues. Critics like The Jimquisition and The Digital Fix on PS4, as well as PC-focused reviews from PCWorld and Ragequit.gr, emphasize the need for improvements in network stability, hit detection, and overall optimization. This indicates that while the game has potential, significant technical hurdles remain that could affect player satisfaction and longevity in the competitive landscape.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege boasts strong replay value thanks to its tactical multiplayer and diverse operators, but critics warn of limited maps and modes that can lead to player burnout. While free updates promise future content, concerns over repetitiveness and microtransactions may undermine long-term engagement. Overall, it’s a solid experience, particularly with friends, but lacks depth and variety at launch, leaving its replayability in question.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

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

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege has garnered a mixed reception regarding its replay value, with several critics acknowledging its strengths. Notably, many reviewers, including PSX Extreme and GamingTrend, highlight the game's significant replay value stemming from its multiplayer modes, diverse operators, and the tactical depth that encourages strategic gameplay. Critics like PC Gamer and Ragequit.gr emphasize the evolving nature of gameplay as players learn and adapt to various situations, which adds to the game's longevity. Additionally, the promise of free post-release content and updates from Ubisoft, as mentioned by AusGamers and COGconnected, instills hope for improved replayability over time. However, a substantial number of critics point out significant drawbacks that hinder the game's replay value. Brash Games and Game Rant express concerns about the limited range of maps and modes, suggesting that this lack of content can lead to a quick burnout for players. Game Informer reiterates this sentiment, criticizing the weak Terrorist Hunt mode and limited customization options, which diminish the overall engagement. Critics like Hardcore Gamer and Metro GameCentral also note that the repetitive nature of gameplay and reliance on microtransactions can detract from the experience, making it feel less rewarding over time. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Rainbow Six Siege offers a solid foundation for replayability through its tactical multiplayer experience and diverse operator choices, significant limitations in content and modes may hinder long-term engagement. Many reviewers, including IGN and The Jimquisition, acknowledge the potential for enjoyment, particularly when played cooperatively with friends. However, the game's initial lack of depth and variety, as highlighted by critics like Hobby Consolas and Vandal, suggests that players may need to rely on future updates to sustain their interest. Thus, while the game has a dedicated following and offers moments of excitement, the concerns raised by numerous critics imply that its replay value may not be as robust as it could be.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege has garnered praise for its strong tactical gameplay, strategic depth, and emphasis on teamwork. Critics like Polygon and AusGamers highlight the game’s solid foundation for competitive play, with unique Operators and engaging mechanics that encourage cooperation among players. The destructible environments and intense engagements have been noted as standout features, contributing to a rewarding multiplayer experience. Critics such as God is a Geek and LevelUp commend the game for its ability to create a thrilling atmosphere, particularly when played with a coordinated team. The potential for eSports and the community's engagement with the game also received positive mentions from several reviewers, indicating that it has a dedicated player base. However, many critics have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A recurring theme in the reviews is the lack of content, with several critics like Hardcore Gamer and Game Informer expressing disappointment over the limited game modes and infrastructure compared to previous titles in the series. Technical issues, including bugs and server problems, have also been highlighted by critics such as Yahoo! and Attack of the Fanboy, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences. Additionally, the game's progression system and reliance on microtransactions have been criticized by multiple reviewers, including IGN and GamingTrend, as they can hinder player enjoyment and long-term investment in the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Rainbow Six Siege offers a compelling and unique multiplayer experience, it is marred by significant shortcomings that may limit its appeal to a broader audience. Many reviewers acknowledge the game's potential and strengths, particularly in tactical gameplay and team dynamics, but the lack of content and technical issues are prominent concerns that could deter new players. Critics like Gaming Age and Post Arcade suggest that the game is best suited for dedicated players who enjoy tactical shooters and can overlook its flaws, while others recommend waiting for improvements or price drops before diving in. As such, Rainbow Six Siege stands as a divisive title that resonates well with certain segments of the gaming community, yet leaves others wanting for more.

TL;DR

Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege impresses with its tactical gameplay, teamwork focus, and thrilling multiplayer experiences, yet suffers from significant flaws like limited content, technical issues, and an unbalanced progression system. While it has a dedicated player base and eSports potential, critics warn that these shortcomings may alienate newcomers. The game shines for hardcore tactical shooter fans but caution against diving in until improvements are made.

MONSTER

Reviews

139 reviews found

PC Gamer

Dec 3, 2015