Ultimate Guide to the R6s New Blackbeard: Tips, Tricks, and Counters
In Rainbow Six Siege's latest update, Craig “Blackbeard” Jenson has undergone a significant transformation, emerging as one of the most unique operators in the game. Formerly criticized for his underwhelming shield mechanics, this remastered version transforms Blackbeard into the game’s first true dual-wield operator.
Equipped with a full-body shield in one hand and his primary weapon in the other, Blackbeard adds a fresh layer of tactical depth to the attacker lineup.
Blackbeard Rework Overview: What's New?
The most striking change to Blackbeard is his new H.U.L.L. Adaptable Shield, a deployable full-body shield that allows him to dual-wield with his primary weapon. This shield can fold for rappel use, making Blackbeard the only operator who can keep a shield out while climbing or breaching through windows.
It also offers tactical options for destroying soft walls and defender utilities. Blackbeard’s shield is further enhanced by its ability to counter specific defender abilities, such as Oryx’s charge, and knock down shielded operators like Clash.
Blackbeard new loadout (Image Source: Ubisoft)Blackbeard retains his two powerful primary weapon options: the MK17 (Scar 17) for reliable damage output and the SR25 Marksman Rifle for long-range precision. Being classified as a 3-health, 1-speed operator also means that he is durable but slow. Thus requiring careful positioning and timing to maximize his effectiveness.
Mastering Blackbeard: Tips, Pairings, and Counters
Using Blackbeard Effectively
To fully capitalize on Blackbeard’s potential, attackers should leverage his adaptability.
His shield is particularly effective during breaches, allowing him to rappel into windows or push through soft walls while staying protected. This makes him an ideal choice for high-risk entry points, where defenders often hold tight angles.
His grenades can clear defender utilities like bulletproof cameras, barbed wire, and proximity alarms, making his approach smoother for the entire team.
During mid-round engagements, Blackbeard shines in creating rotations through walls or soft barriers using his shield charges. These openings can disrupt defender positioning and create new attack lanes for teammates. His shield also makes him a powerful front-line presence near the objective during the late game, where he can absorb damage and hold critical angles.
However, operators must be mindful of his vulnerability during reloads or when switching between shield modes, as these transitions leave him exposed.
Attacker Pairings
Pairing Blackbeard with synergistic operators amplifies his utility and makes him a formidable threat.
- Thermite and Ace are ideal partners, as they can open reinforced walls while Blackbeard handles entry and angles.
- Crowd-control operators like Lion and Dokkaebi complement his aggressive playstyle by disrupting defenders and limiting their movements during pushes.
- For enhanced survivability, Finka’s Adrenal Surge can temporarily counter his slower speed and provide a boost during firefights.
- Frag-focused operators like Zofia or Ash can clear utility and create space for Blackbeard to spearhead an attack.
Blackbeard shooting his primary weapon with the shield (Image Source: Ubisoft)Defensive Counters
Despite his strengths, Blackbeard has notable weaknesses that defenders can exploit.
- Clash is a direct counter, as her taser slows Blackbeard, interrupts his reload and aiming animations, and prevents him from effectively retaliating.
- Shotguns also pose a threat, as they quickly trigger the shield suppression debuff, reducing his mobility and leaving him vulnerable to follow-up attacks.
- Utility-denial operators like Jaeger and Wamai can nullify Blackbeard’s grenades, forcing attackers to rely on alternative methods to clear defender setups.
- Additionally, roaming defenders such as Vigil and Caveira can exploit Blackbeard’s lack of speed and flank him during critical moments.
- Deployable utilities like barbed wire and banshees further slow his advance, exposing him to defenders holding long angles.
A New Era for Blackbeard
The reworked Blackbeard redefines shield mechanics in Rainbow Six Siege, combining power, adaptability, and utility in a single operator. His dual-wielding capabilities and unique breaching options make him a dynamic addition to any team, but he requires careful positioning and teamwork to maximize his potential.
With the right strategy, Blackbeard can be the key to unlocking victory in Siege’s ever-evolving battlefield.
Although the Major just ended, stay tuned to Strafe Esports for more updates. You can also follow the official Rainbow Six Esports X account for more updates on upcoming tournaments and the Six Invitational 2025.
Featured Image Source: Ubisoft
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