The job of gathering intelligence is one that is often forgotten until it's too late in Rainbow Six Extraction. While running with a squad, running out of ammunition, gadgets, and ability powers is commonplace. Many strategies will work, but only if there are the resources to execute upon the strategy.
And that is where IQ comes in. She starts off sensing REACT resource crates, which is already handy, and then moves on to also sensing opponents, cloaked or otherwise. Oh, and it should be mentioned that this ability has no cooldown and never runs out. IQ assures that the squad will never be caught off guard.
Primary Weapon - M870
- Holographic Sights
As is the case with many of the operators, IQ's primary weapon should be reserved for when things go wrong. Forget about silence, it's all about stopping power to prevent the squad from being overrun. As her lone shotgun choice, the M870 is the obvious answer.
With the expansion of her ability, IQ should already be one of the first operators to level up. This will give her quick access to the shotgun. Remember that some objectives can't be done with stealth, so the M870 will at least be useful during these moments.
Secondary Weapon - P9
- Suppressor
IQ has many reasons to get as much experience as fast as possible, but her ideal secondary weapon is available right away. Actually, it's her only secondary weapon. That may be a cause for concern, but the lack of options is supplemented by the strength of the gun.
Even with a silencer attached, the gun is strong enough to take out an enemy with a shot to the weak spot from any area on the map. This is the gun that should be predominantly used, especially since it can be used in conjunction with IQ's ability.
Explosive Tech - Paralysis Grenade
The Paralysis Grenade is a favorite for most operators and, unless it gets nerfed, there is no reason for them to stop. It detonates immediately, stuns an enemy for five seconds, and comes in a set of three. There are few drawbacks to using it.
IQ covers many bases but she should never be mistaken for a tank or healer. That means that she'll need some kind of defensive more during objectives that call in bosses and aliens unless she wants to spend a long time healing up between missions.
Gear - Revive Kit
Don't overthink this pick. The Revive Kit allows IQ to pull herself back to her feet and retreat to safety after getting knocked down. The alternative is losing the operator for good. IQ can mostly stay safe by sensing everything through walls, but the squad doesn't have the same luxury and will sometimes accidentally alert the enemy.
A Revive Kit allows IQ to get a few kills in after being knocked down. It also keeps the rest of the team safe since they don't have to come back for her if such a disaster does take place. The Revive Kit saves runs, having one handy is wise.
Rainbow Six Extraction was released on January 20th, 2022, and is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.