Rainbow Six Siege continues to evolve, and Year 10 Season 1, titled Operation Prep Phase, is set to bring fresh gameplay dynamics, a new operator, and major matchmaking updates.
Ubisoft’s tactical shooter remains a staple in competitive gaming, and with these new additions, the meta is about to experience a significant shake-up.
When Does Operation Prep Phase Release?
Ubisoft has confirmed that Operation Prep Phase will launch in March 2025, though an exact release date is still unknown. This update isn’t the largest in terms of content, but the introduction of a new operator and revamped matchmaking systems sets the tone for the rest of Year 10.
What’s New in Operation Prep Phase?
The Y10S1 update brings several impactful changes to Rainbow Six Siege, including a brand-new operator, matchmaking improvements, and a reworked reputation system. Here’s what to expect:
New Operator: Rauora
Rauora, the newest attacker, hails from New Zealand and introduces a unique playstyle with her D.O.M. Panel Launcher. This powerful gadget allows her to deploy bullet-resistant barriers on doorways, controlling enemy movement and enhancing team coordination.
Key Features of Rauora:
- Weapons: M249, 417 Rifle
- Gadget: D.O.M. Panel Launcher (deploys bullet-resistant door barriers)
- Playstyle Impact: Alters attack strategies by restricting movement and forcing defenders into predictable paths
With her ability to dictate engagement zones, Rauora is expected to become a staple in the pro scene, potentially shifting team compositions and strategies.
Matchmaking Upgrades
Ubisoft is overhauling Rainbow Six Siege’s matchmaking system to improve overall match quality. The new dynamic matchmaking system will better track the number of active players, ensuring faster and fairer matchmaking, especially during peak hours.
Revamped Reputation System
One of the biggest additions in Operation Prep Phase is the enhanced reputation system. Ubisoft aims to curb toxic behavior by introducing penalties and rewards based on player conduct.
Reputation Tiers and Their Effects:
- Dishonorable: Banned from Ranked, Standard, and Siege Cup playlists, -50% XP & Renown, no Ranked rewards.
- Disruptive: Banned from Siege Cup, -25% XP & Renown, no Ranked rewards.
- Respectable: +1 Standing bonus point per match.
- Esteemed: +2 Standing bonus points per match, special card background.
- Exemplary: +3 Standing bonus points per match, exclusive card background.
With these changes, players who engage in trolling or disruptive behavior will find themselves locked out of certain rewards and ranked matches, while those who maintain a positive standing will be incentivized.
How Rauora Will Impact the Meta
Rauora’s introduction marks a significant shift in the meta, especially for attackers. Her ability to block doorways will alter common engagement strategies, forcing defenders to rethink their setups.
Expected Meta Changes:
- Increased use of Rauora in pro play for area control.
- Decreased viability of trap-based operators like Gridlock, as blocked doorways reduce their effectiveness.
- More strategic door placements to disrupt common rotation patterns.
The impact of these changes will become clearer as teams experiment with different compositions in competitive play.
Where to Watch Rainbow Six Siege Esports
With Operation Prep Phase set to shake up the competitive landscape, fans can catch all the action on the official Rainbow6 Twitch Channel. Events like the Six Invitational 2025 will showcase how professional teams adapt to the new meta.
Conclusion
Rainbow Six Siege Y10S1 is introducing game-changing updates with Operation Prep Phase. From Rauora’s disruptive new gadget to a stricter reputation system and matchmaking improvements, players will need to adapt quickly.
These changes promise to keep Rainbow Six Siege fresh and engaging for both casual and competitive players, reinforcing its status as one of the top tactical shooters in the industry.