R6

R6 is the shorthand for the Rainbow Six video game franchise, created by Red Storm Entertainment and published by Ubisoft. The name originated with Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six, released in 1998, and has since expanded into multiple sequels, spin-offs, and a live-service title.

The series is characterized by tactical, team-based gameplay centered on counter-terrorist operations. Players select operators with unique weapons and gadgets, plan before engagement, and execute coordinated assaults or defenses. The emphasis is on communication, map control, and strategic objective completion rather than lone-wolf action.

Key entries include Rainbow Six (1998), Rainbow Six 3: Raven Shield (2003), Rainbow Six: Vegas (2006) and Vegas 2 (2008). The series shifted with Rainbow Six Siege (2015), a 5-on-5 multiplayer shooter with ongoing updates and new operators; Rainbow Six Extraction (2022) introduced cooperative PvE gameplay that expands the franchise’s scope beyond traditional competitive play.

Siege maintains a competitive scene with major esports events, including the Six Invitational and other tournaments, and a dedicated player base. The franchise has been influential in tactical shooters but has faced balance and content concerns at times.

In common usage, R6 refers to Rainbow Six as a franchise, while R6S is often used to denote Rainbow Six Siege specifically.