More About Runner Shells — Character Classes in Marathon
In Marathon, players do not control human agents, but rather so-called "shells." Before landing on Tau Ceti IV, each Runner transferred their consciousness into a biosynthetic body to ensure death on the abandoned colony would not be permanent. In a recent video, Bungie provided more details about the features of these shells.
It's important to clarify that Runner shells serve as character classes. Each shell is built around a specific gameplay archetype, such as a scout, saboteur, or combat medic. The unique silhouettes of each role will help instantly assess threats on the battlefield and make strategic decisions.
Shells can be customized to unlock new capabilities and tailor equipment to the player's needs. Special cores, implants, weapons, and modules will be useful for this. Naturally, visual customization will also be allowed, but the developers promised to talk about that another time.
It's important to note that certain cores are intended for specific shells, while implants are suitable for fighters of any class. For example, one core for the Rogue provides a second charge for the grappling hook, while another allows the companion drone to independently mark nearby enemies. Implants, on the other hand, grant additional stats and a random perk. The highest-ranked implants contain a bonus fixed perk. For instance, marked opponents retain their pings for a short time after leaving the line of sight.
Using various combinations, players can steer their build in the desired direction. An example from the developers: the "Vandal" shell can become more mobile by obtaining a core with a triple jump instead of a double jump, as well as implants that increase movement speed, jump height, and resistance to overheating.
For Marathon, six classes with unique abilities and appearances have been prepared, as well as one prototype shell:
- Demolisher, "Combat Specialist" archetype — characters with this shell always charge forward, shielding themselves, launching rockets, and using jet boosters for dashes. Their main task is to immediately rush into battle and stay there as long as possible.
- Assassin, "Shadow Agent" archetype — equipped with a synthetic smoke screen and active camouflage to remain invisible and deliver surprise attacks from cover. Capable of ignoring fall damage from any height.
- Scout, "Recon Specialist" archetype — a master of detection. Their echo pulsars, pursuit drones, and holographic tracking reveal the map, showing all enemy movements.
- Vandal, "Combat Anarchist" archetype — the most mobile of the classes. Thanks to increased mobility and a built-in repulsor cannon in the arm, they become an unstoppable force capable of causing chaos on the battlefield.
- Rogue, "Covert Acquisition" archetype — possesses enhanced vision (which allows seeing through walls) and a scout drone, which help quickly find valuable loot. A tactical grappling hook allows for either a swift attack or an equally quick escape with "trophies."
- Triage, "Field Medic" archetype — a support hero who ensures allies don't kick the bucket. Combat stims, medic drones, and charged gauntlets, whose impulse heals teammates, assist in this. These same gauntlets can also increase the power of weapons in Triage's hands.
- RUK, "Collector" archetype — a prototype shell, a mode that makes it easier for players to join a match already in progress. Equipment is limited, but the player risks nothing.
Marathon is preparing for release in March 2026 on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series with full Russian localization. Bungie has promised to roll out a project development plan closer to launch.