Rainbow Six Extraction Gameplay and Structure

Tomclancyplaystation
5 min readJan 13, 2024

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Rainbow Six: Siege launch marked a notable shift from the series’ traditional formula, turning it into a multiplayer tactical shooter with a somewhat controversial and problematic start. Now, as we approach the seven-year mark since its initial release, Extraction is on the horizon, aiming to redefine the franchise by shifting away from player vs. player (PvP) focus. The most striking difference between Extraction and Siege lies in their gameplay dynamics. Siege revolves around player vs. player engagements in a purely PvP setting. On the contrary, Extraction offers an entirely player vs. environment (PvE) experience, demanding collaboration among you and two companions to confront a new threat known as the Archaeans. Notably, Extraction lacks a player vs. player (PvP) mode, with the Archaeans being computer-controlled adversaries. Players familiar with Siege will find Extraction’s movements and controls entirely recognizable, as they share remarkable similarities. The controls in Extraction exhibit an elevated level of fluidity and responsiveness, with the PlayStation 5 version making the most of the DualSense controller capabilities. Upon launching the game for the first time, players are treated to a cutscene providing additional context about the Archaean situation and the state of the world. Importantly, venturing into the “real” levels is not a solo endeavor; it necessitates companions without exception. After completion, players face a decision: either conclude the mission and return to base or delve deeper into the level for increased rewards. Significantly, a unanimous decision from at least two out of the three team members is required to advance.

Rainbow Six Extraction: Teamwork Dynamics and Gameplay Experience

Extraction, much like Siege, features 18 distinct Operators, each armed with their unique weapons and abilities. Deviating from a stealthy approach results in consequences, as enemies, when killed overtly, release a hindering black substance that slows down nearby players. Stealthy takedowns, on the other hand, yield additional experience points and gratifying animations for hitting weak spots. Maintaining voice communication with teammates is essential to warn them of impending dangers, though a ping system is available for strategic coordination, just like deciding which PS5 games to buy enhances the overall gaming experience. Completing missions with a stealthy approach is favored, and not adhering to this style hinders mission success. While having a combat-ready Operator in the squad helps, playing with strangers is a gamble. The initial levels are forgiving, but as stronger enemies emerge, solo success becomes unlikely. Finishing objectives is satisfying, but the experience may be less enjoyable without familiar teammates. Potential players without companions should weigh the decision carefully.

Rainbow Six Extraction Mechanics

The controls in Extraction are remarkably smooth and responsive, providing a seamless gaming experience without any noticeable delays or issues in command execution. Despite Ubisoft’s potential missteps in other aspects of the game, the controls stand out positively. As mentioned earlier, players transitioning from Siege will find themselves familiar with the control scheme. The responsiveness of every movement, shot, and action in the game is almost immediate, which is particularly valuable given the precision required to navigate and succeed in the challenging levels. In general, both movement and shooting in Extraction exhibit responsiveness and precision. Keep in mind that even the most skilled players need the right gear — just as a gamer seeks the perfect weapon in the face of challenging encounters. Due to the confined spaces and proximity of enemies, players must exercise extreme caution in their movements to avoid alerting nearby foes. Once stealth is compromised, the game quickly becomes challenging, especially considering the tight clustering of enemies and the continuous spawning of aliens from destroyed nests. In navigating the proximity of enemies, even in early-game areas where the challenge is significant, finding strategic ways to overcome obstacles adds a layer of excitement. For those seeking a different kind of challenge, exploring where to buy PS4 games can be part of enhancing overall game enjoyment. Initially, you’ll face regular foes that charge at you aggressively, but as you progress, you’ll encounter enemies strapped with bombs, those capable of catching you, and others with long-range attacks. Completing a level in Extraction brings immense satisfaction, especially when overcoming obstacles that had you stuck for hours. However, I believe Extraction could have been even more enjoyable if the Archaeans were not as formidable. Dealing with ordinary enemies is manageable, but the difficulty escalates with the introduction of more powerful variants. Some can strike from a distance, while others restrict your mobility. Compounding the challenge, these powerful variants are often accompanied by weaker counterparts. If knocked down a second time, your Operator transforms into a cocoon that teammates must carry to the extraction site for your revival. Failure means you cannot use that Operator until successfully rescued.

Rainbow Six Extraction: A Next-Generation Gaming Experience

Customization options abound for the 16 Operators featured in Extraction. On one front, familiar cosmetic elements take center stage, manifested in the form of customizable armor and helmets. Presently, finding games poses no difficulty, thanks to a quick-play matchmaking system that efficiently connects players with games of any level, especially for solo players. While some visual issues, particularly in animations, were encountered, they were not overly concerning. This includes trigger resistance based on the weapon used and varying controller vibrations corresponding to the type of enemy encountered. Although its gameplay is commendable and controls are responsive, certain decisions regarding enemy positioning and a high level of difficulty contribute to a complex experience, particularly for players less acquainted with the genre.

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