Rainbow Six Tactics Marks the Franchise’s First Solo Adventure in Nearly Two Decades

The upcoming entry in the Rainbow Six franchise is set to shake things up. During Gamescom’s Opening Night Live, it was revealed that Rainbow Six Tactics will be a turn-based tactics game reminiscent of XCOM. The trailer showcased isometric gameplay where players command a squad of military operators on missions around the globe.

One highlight was an intel map that allows players to select various missions, hinting at a strategic threat management system akin to Firaxis’ XCOM: Enemy Unknown and its sequel. Rainbow Six Tactics will feature 15 distinct classes, each equipped with unique gadgets and weapons. In one scene, a sniper takes out two enemies with a single shot, while another operator, clad in tactical gear and wielding a riot shield, appears to serve as the tank of the team. Additionally, players can deploy a small robot to deliver explosives.

Set within the established Rainbow Six universe, players can expect a blend of espionage and possibly some politically charged themes. The game is slated for release in 2027 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PC.

For over a decade, Rainbow Six Siege has been the flagship title of the series, achieving remarkable success as a live-service game with over 70 million players. This multiplayer first-person shooter focuses on storming or defending buildings.

Historically, Rainbow Six games have been single-player first-person shooters that emphasize tactical gameplay, offering a more “hardcore” alternative to early Call of Duty titles. The last single-player installment was 2008’s Rainbow Six Vegas 2, which received acclaim for its intense atmosphere and solid gunplay. While Rainbow Six Tactics marks a significant shift in genre from its predecessors, it aligns well with the series’ strategic roots. With this and the upcoming Star Wars Zero Company, tactical game enthusiasts have plenty to anticipate.