“It changes the notion of safety for the enemies, but also for you”: Rainbow Six Tactics’ destruction undoes the classic dynamics of flanking
Rainbow Six Tactics, Ubisoft’s turn-based tactical game demonstrated at Gamescom, places environmental destruction at the center of strategic gameplay, fundamentally reshaping classic tactical game dynamics. Unlike previous tactical titles where destruction serves primarily as visual spectacle, the game integrates destructible scenery directly into core mechanics like positioning and flanking.
During the hands-off demo, sniper character Glaz showcased the system’s impact by firing through multiple interior walls to land a headshot—illustrating how destruction creates unexpected attack angles and fundamentally alters what positions are considered “safe” for both attackers and defenders. This mechanic changes the risk calculation for both players, forcing a reconsideration of traditional cover utility and flank routes.
The destruction system appears to advance beyond previous implementations seen in XCOM 2 and Rainbow Six Siege by making it a strategic pillar rather than a graphical nicety. Destructible walls and cover create dynamic battlespaces where static defensive positions become vulnerable, and new tactical opportunities emerge through creative use of destruction. The innovation redefines how players approach cover management and unit positioning in turn-based combat, making environmental destruction integral to tactical decision-making rather than an optional enhancement.