## Rainbow Six Tactics: A Tactical Turn-Based Spin on the Franchise
Ubisoft has made a strategic move by transforming the iconic Rainbow Six franchise into a turn-based tactical game. Drawing inspiration from the mechanics of XCOM: Chimera Squad, this new entry—Rainbow Six Tactics—takes the special ability-laden operators from Rainbow Six Siege and places them in a new context that feels like a natural fit for the series.
### A Return to Paul Bishop
In Rainbow Six Tactics, players will step into the shoes of Paul Bishop, the protagonist from Rainbow Six Vegas 1 and 2. Having traded in his combat gear for a commander’s uniform, Bishop leads the charge against a menacing terrorist organization that has initiated attacks globally. As part of a team of elite agents, the Rainbow squad is called upon to bring swift resolution to escalating threats.
### Set Roster of Operators
Unlike traditional XCOM games that allow for customization of cadets, Rainbow Six Tactics features a fixed roster of operators, each endowed with unique abilities reflective of their roles in Rainbow Six Siege. Players can expect to see familiar faces like Nokk, Glaz, Montagne, Ash, Doc, Sledge, and Zofia. This diverse cast includes aggressive damage dealers, support units, flankers, and sharpshooters, reinforcing the tactical depth of the gameplay.
### Reconnaissance and Environment
The game retains the fundamental reconnaissance phase that has become a staple in the Rainbow Six franchise. Before players engage in strategic combat, they utilize drones to survey the battlefield and identify terrorist positions. Although the levels themselves are not procedurally generated, enemy spawn locations will vary with each playthrough, making reconnaissance essential for planning successful operations.
Another crucial element carried over from Siege is breaching mechanics. Players will have several breach points to choose from, allowing them to re-strategize based on what they discover during reconnaissance. Operators can execute coordinated entries, blasting through walls to tackle immediate threats as the game transitions into traditional turn-based combat.
### Drawing Inspiration from the Genre
Rainbow Six Tactics stands out for its incorporation of various mechanics from established turn-based tactical games while formulating a unique identity. The game references elements from XCOM: Chimera Squad, Tactical Breach Wizards, and even aspects from games like Door Kickers. However, the unique blend of these inspirations contributes to a refreshing gameplay experience that feels well-suited for a turn-based adaptation of the Siege universe.
### The Importance of Destructible Environments
Destructible environments, a hallmark of Rainbow Six Siege, is another anticipated feature in Rainbow Six Tactics. The game’s mechanics hint at a return to strategic building destruction, which could serve not just for creating pathways but also for gathering intelligence by allowing players to see through walls and corridors. While the current footage suggests preliminary mechanics for this pivotal element, fans are eager to see its implementation in full.
### Looking Ahead
Scheduled for release in 2027, Rainbow Six Tactics represents a significant evolution for the series, marking the first single-player experience since Rainbow Six Vegas 2 released 17 years ago. Excitement is palpable as players anticipate an expansion beyond the Siege narrative while maintaining the tactical intensity that the franchise is known for.
