It’s certainly rare that a developer exercises restraint in promoting their game. It’s even rarer for them to actively miss a huge opportunity to do so at an event specifically designed for that purpose. And rarer still to just have too much good stuff to show to be able to squeeze in anything extra, but that seems to have been Ubisoft’s reason for avoiding all mention of Rainbow 6: Patriots.
The domestic terrorism-themed tactical shooter made waves with a politically charged trailer last year, before promptly dropping off the map. “What we decided was that the best thing for the brand was to not bring it to the show right now,” Ubisoft exec Tony Key explained. “We have a lot of other games that we want to focus people on and there will be more information on Rainbow coming.”
The Impact of Rainbow 6: Patriots’ Absence
The absence of Rainbow 6: Patriots at such a significant event like E3 left many fans and industry insiders puzzled. E3 is one of the largest gaming conventions in the world, and it serves as a prime platform for developers to showcase their upcoming titles. Ubisoft’s decision to withhold information about Rainbow 6: Patriots was unexpected, especially given the game’s initial reception. The trailer released the previous year had generated considerable buzz due to its intense and politically charged narrative, which promised a gripping and thought-provoking experience.
However, Ubisoft’s strategy might have been influenced by several factors. The company had a lineup of other high-profile games that they wanted to highlight, such as Assassin’s Creed III and Far Cry 3. By focusing on these titles, Ubisoft ensured that they received the attention they deserved without being overshadowed by the anticipation surrounding Rainbow 6: Patriots.
Speculations and Future Prospects
The decision to delay showcasing Rainbow 6: Patriots also led to various speculations within the gaming community. Some speculated that the game’s development might have hit a snag, while others believed that Ubisoft was refining the game to meet the high expectations set by its initial reveal. The gaming industry is no stranger to delays and reworks, as developers often strive to deliver a polished and immersive experience.
Moreover, the politically charged nature of Rainbow 6: Patriots’ storyline might have required additional time to ensure that it was handled with the necessary sensitivity and depth. Tackling themes of domestic terrorism and political unrest is no small feat, and Ubisoft likely wanted to ensure that the narrative was both compelling and respectful.
Despite the absence of Rainbow 6: Patriots at E3, Ubisoft reassured fans that more information would be forthcoming. This statement kept the anticipation alive and hinted at the possibility of future reveals at other gaming events or through dedicated announcements. The gaming community remained eager to learn more about the game’s progress and what new features and innovations it would bring to the tactical shooter genre.
In conclusion, while Ubisoft’s decision to withhold Rainbow 6: Patriots from E3 2012 was surprising, it was likely a strategic move to ensure that their other titles received the spotlight. The anticipation for Rainbow 6: Patriots remained high, and fans were left eagerly awaiting further updates. The gaming industry is ever-evolving, and sometimes, a little patience can lead to a more refined and impactful gaming experience.
Source IGN
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