Overview
The discussion explores how tier lists for Rainbow Six Siege operators vary by player experience and rank, examining the challenges in creating an objective ranking system and emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between subjective opinions and objective analysis.
Subjectivity in Tier Lists
- Different skill levels lead to vastly different operator rankings (e.g., copper vs champion vs pro players).
- Personal experiences, playstyles, and biases strongly influence individual tier lists.
- Examples show conflicting opinions on weapon effectiveness based on player performance and preference.
- Lower-ranked players may find certain operators or weapons stronger due to different skill requirements.
Pursuing Objectivity
- Complete objectivity is unattainable since all judgments are influenced by personal experience and context.
- To improve objectivity, claims about operator strength should be supported by facts and game evidence.
- At the pro league level, tier lists become more universally accurate due to optimal coordination and teamwork.
- Tier lists are most relevant when tailored to specific ranks or levels of play, as operator effectiveness changes with rank.
Operator Comparison Example: Tachanka vs. Smoke
- Tachanka is powerful at low ranks due to forgiving weapons and less need for strategy, but weaker at higher levels.
- Smoke is objectively superior at higher ranks, offering better area denial, safer ability use, and a more versatile loadout.
- Sight setup and map destruction are objectively important factors at higher competitive levels.
The Role of Operator Abilities
- Operator abilities are the most objective measurement when comparing operators.
- Example: Zero’s gadgets are less effective than Brava or Twitch in high ranks due to noise and limited utility.
- In lower ranks, Zero may seem stronger due to opponents' lack of awareness, but objectively performs poorly at top levels.
- Passive gadgets (like airjabs and gridlocks) provide reliable flank protection, reducing the necessity of active camera watching.
Principles for Objective Tier Lists
- An objective tier list considers operator abilities, team utility, and adaptability to game goals, not just gun strength.
- Effectiveness should be contextualized for different environments (rank, solo queue, five stack, platform).
- Even with objectivity, personal bias will inevitably influence tier list creation.
Recommendations / Advice
- Distinguish between subjective experiences and objective facts when evaluating operator strength.
- Use objective criteria—such as utility, ability comparison, and relevance at high skill levels—for reliable tier rankings.
- Tailor tier lists to the appropriate rank or context to ensure practical value.