Rainbow Six Siege is preparing for a major update that will be the largest in the game's history. In June 2025, Siege X will be released, which will switch the game to a free-to-play model, add updated maps, new graphics, and an innovative Dual Front mode.

But how will these changes affect the Siege eSports scene? Will the 5v5 format remain the basis of the competition, and can Dual Front become a new standard? These questions were answered by Alexander Karpazis, Creative Director at Ubisoft, in an interview.

Is Dual Front an experiment or the future of Siege eSports?

One of the biggest changes in Siege X will be the Dual Front mode, a completely new format with respawn mechanics that changes the classic approach to tactical gameplay.

We want players to decide for themselves whether Dual Front should become a part of eSports. But for now, we're keeping 5v5 as the main format for competitions

Alexander Karpazis

Unlike the classic Siege, where every mistake can be fatal, in Dual Front, players get a second chance in the round. This makes the mode friendlier for newcomers, especially those who are switching from games like Call of Duty or Battlefield.

The respawn mechanic allows players to learn faster. If you make a mistake, you get the opportunity to fix it right away

Alexander Karpazis

But can Dual Front become a part of esports? Ubisoft is not ready to confirm this yet, but they do not rule out this possibility in the future.

Free-to-play Siege X: more players, more tournaments?

The transition to free-to-play means an influx of a new audience. Ubisoft expects millions of new players, which can change the game's esports ecosystem.

We want our esports community to continue to grow. More players mean more tournaments and new opportunities

Alexander Karpazis

However, ranked matches and the Siege Cup tournament mode will remain behind the paywall. Free players will only be able to play Quick Play, Unranked and Dual Front.

Map update: how will the competitive level change?

Another key change is the redesigned maps. Ubisoft started the update with competitive maps such as Clubhouse and Bank.

We focused on the most popular maps used in competitions to give players the best experience

Alexander Karpazis

New “smart” objects, such as fire extinguishers that create smoke screens, will add new tactical possibilities.

“This opens up new strategies for players. I expect we will see many new tactics in large esports arenas,” added the Ubisoft director.

The future of Rainbow Six Siege esports

Ubisoft continues to actively support the competitive scene, including updating the spectator camera for better viewing of matches.

We've received a lot of feedback on the observation interface, and our team is currently working on improving it

Alexander Karpazis

As for the game's balance, Ubisoft is considering changing mechanics, including a new gadget selection system.

“We don't want to upset the balance, but we are open to changes. However, any innovations will be thoroughly tested,” Karpazis emphasized.

Siege X is a new stage in the game's development

The transition of Rainbow Six Siege to a free-to-play model, the introduction of Dual Front and the update of competitive maps is the beginning of a new era.

Ubisoft confirms its support for esports and the growth of the tournament scene. Will the format of professional matches change? It will depend on the community.

• Siege X release date: June 10, 2025
• Game format: free-to-play
• Main competitive mode: 5v5
• New mode: Dual Front
• Redesigned maps: Clubhouse, Bank and others

Will Dual Front become a part of esports? It all depends on the demand among players. In the meantime, Ubisoft continues to update the game and expand its features.