Ubisoft has revealed Operation Split Fire, the Season 3 update for Rainbow Six Siege, during a panel at the Esports World Cup in France. The update introduces major Ranked 3.0 changes, a new defender, additional game modes, map modernisations and several operator balance adjustments.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of Ranked 3.0, which will feature more impactful placement matches and soft resets at the start of each season. Players will also receive 30 points for a win, up from 25, while matchmaking for mixed Emerald squads is being adjusted.
New Defender Noor And 3v3 Arcade
Operation Split Fire introduces Noor as a new defender. Her Horus Lance Launcher can attach to any surface and is designed to counter shield operators while also providing plant denial.
Noor’s loadout includes the Alda 5.56 or Commando-9, alongside the Tacops 1911 or Bailiff 410. Players can choose between a Deployable Shield and Barbed Wire as her secondary gadget.
A new 3v3 Arcade mode will also arrive on September 8. The mode features attrition, requiring players to carefully consider which operators they bring into each match.
Kali And Operator Balance Changes
Kali is receiving several changes in Season 3. Her CSRX scopes will be adjusted to 3.5x and 8x, while the time between shots will be reduced. Her V-Lance can also be toggled while aiming down sights.
Other balancing changes include adjustments to the MK14 EBR, AR-15.50 and SMG-12. Lion, Echo and Kapkan are also receiving refinement buffs, while Mute and Tubarão will gain tools to counter Dokkaebi.
Map modernisation is another focus of Operation Split Fire. Villa will be the first map to receive the treatment, with Modernized House, Stadium Alpha and Stadium Bravo also planned for the season.
Legend Division And Drone Racing Event
Operation Split Fire will introduce the Legend Division as a mid-season addition. Players must reach Champion rank to enter, while the division will feature the R6 Shield Guard Secure Platform, a public leaderboard and an exclusive Legend Division charm.
The season will also include the Wasteland Circuit, a new drone racing event scheduled to begin on September 23.
