Rainbow Six Siege stands apart from other games in the Tom Clancy series with a clear competitive focus and distinct lack of narrative, but over the past few years Ubisoft has taken a page out of the League of Legends handbook in its bid to expand the stories of its vibrant cast of characters. When lore begins to influence the outcome of a professional match where prize money is on the line, however, it's being used in the wrong way.
During EU League 2020 Relegations, MnM Gaming's Josh 'Yuzus' Pritchard managed to come in clutch against Rogue in a 1v2 situation that would've been impossible had he not been playing Zofia. Her unique 'Withstand' ability allowed her to pick herself up from a downed-but-not-out state without the aid of any teammates, which controversially had no connection to her main KS79 Lifeline gadget or role inside a team. Instead, the reason for Withstand was credited to her sheer willpower, whether that's to return to her daughter or reconcile with her sister and fellow playable GROM operator, Ela.
The reignited conversation surrounding the divisive skill has seen both Withstand and Zofia's inherent resistance to concussion effects - yet another hidden ability in her Batman-like utility belt - removed from the game. Unfortunately, this decision has deepened the disconnect between the competitive and casual scenes, with some not understanding the need to change an ability that has largely been left untouched for three years.
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