So, you’ve decided to dive into Rainbow Six Siege, the tactical shooter that’s part chess match, part home renovation simulator. But there’s one problem: you’re an older gamer, and your usual squad consists of your cat, your spouse (who only plays Animal Crossing), and that one friend who still thinks GoldenEye is the pinnacle of gaming. Fear not! Building a Siege squad as an older gamer is easier than you think—and way more fun than explaining to your kids what a floppy disk is. Here’s how to assemble your dream team without losing your sanity (or your dignity).
Start with Your Existing Network: The “Who Do I Know?” Phase
Before you start recruiting strangers, take stock of your existing network. You’d be surprised how many people in your life are secretly gamers—or at least willing to give it a shot.
- The Spouse/Partner: Sure, they might prefer Stardew Valley to Siege, but with a little persuasion (and maybe some bribery), you can convert them into a tactical shooter enthusiast. Just promise them they can play as Doc or Rook—they’ll love the supportive roles.
- The Kids: If you have kids, they’re probably already gaming. Sure, they might roll their eyes when you suggest playing Siege together, but deep down, they’ll love the chance to show off their skills (and maybe teach you a thing or two).
- The Old Friends: Reach out to your high school or college buddies. Even if they haven’t gamed in years, the nostalgia factor might be enough to lure them back. Just don’t bring up that time you beat them at Mario Kart—it’s still a sore subject.
Pro Tip: If your friends are hesitant, remind them that Siege is basically Clue with guns. Who doesn’t love a good mystery?
Join Online Communities: The “Strangers Are Just Friends You Haven’t Met Yet” Phase
If your real-life network is tapped out, it’s time to venture into the wild world of online communities. Don’t worry—it’s not as scary as it sounds.
- Discord Servers: There are countless Siege-focused Discord servers where you can find like-minded players. Look for communities that cater to older gamers or beginners—they’re usually more welcoming and less likely to yell at you for missing a shot. Like ours! 40-Up Gaming!!
- Reddit and Forums: Subreddits like r/Rainbow6 or forums like the official Ubisoft community are great places to find squadmates. Just post a friendly message like, “Older gamer looking for chill teammates who won’t judge my reflexes,” and you’ll be surprised how many people respond.
- Facebook Groups: Yes, Facebook isn’t just for sharing memes and arguing about politics. There are plenty of gaming groups where you can connect with other Siege players. Bonus: you might even find someone who remembers Pong.
Fun Fact: Online communities are full of older gamers who are in the same boat as you. You’re not alone—there’s a whole army of us out there, just waiting to squad up.
Be Upfront About Your Playstyle: The “No, I’m Not a Tryhard” Phase
When building your squad, it’s important to be upfront about your playstyle and expectations. Are you a casual player who just wants to have fun? Or are you looking to climb the ranks and dominate the competition? Either way, communication is key.
- Set the Tone: Let your potential squadmates know that you’re an older gamer who values teamwork and good vibes over screaming matches and toxicity.
- Embrace Your Role: If you’re not the most mechanically skilled player, that’s okay! Focus on support roles like Rook, Doc, or Thatcher. Your squad will appreciate your contributions, even if you’re not topping the leaderboard.
- Laugh at Yourself: If you make a mistake (and you will), own it. A little self-deprecating humor goes a long way in building camaraderie.
Pro Tip: If someone starts yelling at you for missing a shot, just say, “Sorry, my arthritis is acting up.” It’s the ultimate guilt trip.
Schedule Regular Game Nights: The “Let’s Make This a Thing” Phase
Once you’ve found your squad, it’s important to keep the momentum going. Schedule regular game nights so you can build chemistry and improve together.
- Pick a Time That Works: As an older gamer, you probably have a busy schedule. Find a time that works for everyone, whether it’s after the kids are in bed or on a lazy Sunday afternoon.
- Keep It Casual: Not every session has to be a ranked grind. Mix in some casual matches or custom games to keep things fun and low-pressure.
- Celebrate the Wins: Whether it’s a clutch victory or just a particularly funny moment, take the time to celebrate your squad’s successes. A little positivity goes a long way.
Fun Fact: Regular game nights are a great way to stay connected with friends, especially if they live far away. It’s like a virtual hangout, but with more explosions.
Embrace the Chaos: The “We’re in This Together” Phase
At the end of the day, building a Siege squad is about having fun and enjoying the game with people who get you. Sure, there will be moments of frustration (like when you accidentally team-kill your best friend), but there will also be moments of pure joy (like when you pull off the perfect breach and defuse).
- Laugh at the Mistakes: Whether it’s a failed push or a hilarious glitch, don’t take the game too seriously. The best squads are the ones that can laugh together, even in defeat.
- Support Each Other: Gaming is more fun when you’re lifting each other up. Offer encouragement, share tips, and celebrate each other’s progress.
- Remember Why You’re Here: You’re not just playing a game—you’re building friendships and creating memories. That’s what makes it all worthwhile.
Pro Tip: If your squad is feeling down after a tough loss, remind them that you’re all in this together. And if all else fails, suggest a round of “Slappers Only” in GoldenEye for old time’s sake.
Conclusion: Your Squad Awaits
Building a Siege squad as an older gamer might seem daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with others, share your love of gaming, and create unforgettable moments. Whether you’re playing with old friends, family members, or new acquaintances, the key is to have fun and embrace the chaos.
So, grab your headset, fire up Siege, and start recruiting. Your dream squad is out there—and they’re probably just as excited to find you as you are to find them. Now, go forth and conquer. And remember: age is just a number, but a well-timed breach is timeless.
Bonus Tip for Older Gamers:
If you’re feeling nervous about joining a new squad, just remember: everyone starts somewhere. Even the pros were once beginners who didn’t know which way to hold the controller. Now, go make some friends—and maybe blow up a wall or two while you’re at it.