Rainbow Six Siege X is now a free game, but introduces a $50 skin and controversial currency changes
On the June 10th Rainbow Six Siege X release date, the Ubisoft title became free-to-play. However, as is often the case with a free game, progressing in the tactical shooter is a chore without spending cash. Renown, the in-game currency, is now more difficult to accumulate by playing matches. Also, some players are criticizing the arrival of a premium skin that costs as much as $50.
In Rainbow Six Siege X, Renown can unlock weapon skins and other cosmetics. However, its most popular use is to unlock playable characters called operators. The update added Fenrir, who brings a strategic element to matches with bulletproof doors. Unfortunately, players are reporting that grinding out matches does not earn nearly the same amount of currency. There are daily challenges to help make up the difference, but gamers lament the changes nonetheless.
Another tactic publishers employ after releasing a free game is to offer pricey premium skins. With the Valkyrie Paragon Elite bundle, Ubisoft is now selling the most expensive cosmetic item ever in any Rainbow Six Siege title. Gamers can only purchase the Norse mythology-inspired collection with 5,000 R6 credits. Unlike Renown, R6 is distributed through the Ubisoft Store and requires real money. Some gamers are paying up to $45-50 to add the Valkyrie Paragon cosmetics to their stash.
Even paid games like Diablo 4 entice players to spend enormous amounts of money on skins. Still, some Rainbow Six veterans are finding the latest items don't fit the more realistic theme of the shooter.
The Rainbow Six Siege X release date also brought improved graphics and sound. Dual Front is a new 6x6 mode that's more friendly to newcomers. On the other hand, veterans who have honed their skills over many years worry the shooter has become too casual.
