الوسم: Marathon

  • Top Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving

    Top Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving

    You can use 29 different weapons in Marathon. This number doesn’t include various equipment like grenades, or your reliable knife, which sometimes feels overly powerful. With so many guns available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about where to start and which ones are actually good.

    Don’t worry, we’ve tested and experimented with all of them for you. Our Marathon weapons tier list highlights the top and most useful guns you can find throughout the game. Your main challenge will be gathering and filling your vault with these top-tier options.

    Keep in mind, Marathon is a live-service game that regularly updates to adjust weapon balance. Weapons can be nerfed or buffed with patches, so consider this guide as a general overview rather than absolute.

    How Do Tiers Work?

    Our tier list divides weapons into four categories:

    • Tier S: The best of the best. These weapons deliver everything you need and more. Prioritize them.
    • Tier A: Excellent weapons with minor downsides compared to S tier.
    • Tier B: Okay guns that can work well—though they may need some skill to handle.
    • Tier C: We suggest avoiding these unless necessary.

    We assessed weapons in their base versions without attachments. For more specific weapon lists tailored for PvE or PvP, check dedicated guides.


    Tier S

    Weapon Type Reason
    Biotoxic Disinjector Hybrid Introduced in Cryo Archive, this is arguably the most overpowered weapon in the game. To unlock, you must defeat a Compiler. Best for skilled players.
    Longshot Sniper Rifle A powerful sniper that’s surprisingly not nerfed yet. It delivers three quick shots with low recoil and huge damage.
    M77 Assault Rifle Assault Rifle Whether you prefer the M77 or BR33, they’re interchangeable. Their damage is especially effective against UESC.
    BR33 Volley Rifle Precision Rifle Known for its stability and accuracy. Its burst fire can be tricky, but it’s reliable for precise shots.
    WSTR Combat Shotgun Shotgun Land both shots and it can take down nearly any enemy. Only enemies far away or shielded are safe.
    Missriah 2442 Shotgun Offers more shots per magazine than just two, making it extremely powerful.
    Bully SMG Submachine Gun The most accessible and powerful gun in this tier, great for early gameplay.

    Tier A

    Weapon Type Reason
    Outland Sniper Rifle Very strong but slow firing rate brings it to Tier A.
    Stryder M1T Precision Rifle Very stable with decent damage. Great if you aim well.
    BRRT SMG Submachine Gun Strong close-range option—manage its recoil well to succeed.
    V99 Channel Sniper Rifle A charge sniper that builds power as you aim. Timing is key, but skilled players can excel.
    Demolition HMG Machine Gun Heavy, but with better damage and fire rate than similar weapons.
    Twin Tap HBR Precision Rifle Good damage with a fast kill time; short-range limitation is a drawback.
    Magnum MC Pistol Strong for PvP if you’re skilled at headshots, but weaker if not.
    V11 Punch Pistol Great for PvP, especially if you charge your shots.

    Tier B

    Weapon Type Reason
    Hardline PR Precision Rifle Decent for PvE, especially if you excel at headshots.
    V85 Circuit Breaker Shotgun Moderate weapon—requires charging shots to perform well.
    Twin Tap HBR Precision Rifle Good damage but recoil and range can be disadvantages.
    Impact H-AR Assault Rifle Fire rate could be better; closer combat can be challenging.
    V75 Scar Assault Rifle Many shots before reloading, but less effective at longer distances.
    V66 Lookout Precision Rifle Better for long-range, but damage isn’t enough to elevate it higher.
    V00 Zeus RG Railgun Not popular, due to charging and discomfort. When charged, can deal significant damage.
    Conquest LMG Machine Gun Needs to be fired for a few seconds to reach optimal rate; situational choice.
    V22 Volt Thrower Pistol Fun to use, effective against weaker UESC units, but not recommended for PvP.

    Tier C

    Weapon Type Reason
    Overrun AR Assault Rifle Not bad but lacks unique features; not worth prioritizing.
    Retaliator LMG Machine Gun Heavy and inconsistent fire rate.
    Ares RG Railgun High skill required; charges are difficult to manage.
    Repeater HPR Precision Rifle Decent damage with headshots, but overall stats are weak.
    Copperhead RF Submachine Gun Weak at ranges beyond close combat; high cost not justified.
    CE Tactical Sidearm Pistol The worst weapon in the game.

    This overview covers the weapons without attachments. For detailed lists adapted for different modes, check additional guides.

  • Top PvE Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving Challenges

    Top PvE Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving Challenges

    Fighting against other Runners is one thing, but trying to eliminate the CPU enemies of the UESC in Marathon is a different challenge. The first can be more difficult, depending on how skilled the players are. While AI behavior is more predictable, they still can give you a tough fight.

    This list highlights the weapons you should focus on when clearing areas guarded by the UESC and its powerful machines. We’ll cover the best PvE weapons available in Marathon.

    Keep in mind, Marathon is regularly updated, which can change how the game plays.

    Best PvE Weapons

    You might not always know when other human players will arrive. If you focus your runs on completing Factions Contracts and looting specific areas, these PvE weapons will help you succeed.

    Outland

    If you need a sniper rifle to take down UESC units, Outland is a solid choice. It’s slightly slower than some other snipers, like the Longshot, but it inflicts massive damage. It’s perfect for targeting slower-moving enemies. For tougher enemies, start with a clean headshot to alert the group, then switch to body shots if needed. It’s an excellent weapon overall.

    BR33 Volley Rifle

    We mentioned this weapon in our PvP guide, but it deserves a spot here too. It’s arguably the best gun in the game right now because of its reliable damage, low recoil, and great stability. Whenever possible, pick one up; it will make your fights much easier against all types of foes.

    Note: While not repeating the list of close-range shotguns like the WSTR Combat Shotgun or Misriah 2442, they’re also great options when facing robots up close.

    Hardline PR

    Some players overlook this rifle, but it’s worth respecting. It’s not the most precise gun out there, but it has advantages for PvE, such as long-range accuracy, a headshot multiplier, and easy accessibility — you can find it in many free kits. Early in the game, when your gear isn’t so advanced, it’s a strong choice for taking out nearby UESC targets.

    M77 Assault Rifle

    If it weren’t for the BR33, the M77 would probably be one of the best assault rifles in Marathon. It deals good damage and is comfortable to use, even though it’s a bit slower than other rifles. Its damage output can quickly break through shields, often with fewer shots than you’d expect. It excels in taking out enemy units and CPU foes, especially when you stay close since it loses power at longer ranges.

    BRRT SMG

    The BRRT SMG is a common pick due to its high fire rate and damage. While it’s not the most stable weapon — making accuracy a challenge when far from enemies — it’s very effective in close quarters. Given the UESC’s abundance of advancing robots, this gun is a reliable choice. When you don’t get a BRRT, you can swap in the tried-and-true Bully SMG as an alternative.

  • Top PvP Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving

    Top PvP Weapons in Marathon for Completing and Solving

    In Marathon, you need to pay attention to various equipment, like Shields and Cores, as well as each Runner Shell ability. Learning the map you’re playing on and other details is also important. But of course, knowing the best weapons to use is just as crucial.

    Since you fight against CPU UESC units and other players searching for loot, this guide will focus on the top weapons for PvP gameplay in Marathon.

    Keep in mind, Marathon is a live-service game that gets regular updates, which means weapon strengths can change with each patch.

    The Best PvP Weapons

    Below is a selection of the best weapons that can improve your chances in fights against other Runners, whether you’re solo or with a team.

    WSTR Combat Shotgun

    Even after receiving a nerf in a recent balance update, this weapon remains formidable and one of the top choices for PvP combat. It only has two shots before reloading, but a well-aimed shot can eliminate an opponent in one hit—especially if you manage a head or chest shot. This holds true even if your enemies are using green shields. Pairing this shotgun with a Runner ability like the Thief’s grappling hook can catch opponents off guard with instant kills.

    Bully SMG

    The Bully SMG is one of the easiest guns to find since it’s available through free Sponsored Kits and common locations. Despite its affordability, it’s considered one of the best submachine guns in the game. It offers decent damage, consistent performance, and manageable recoil. However, it’s not ideal for long-range encounters—typical of most SMGs.

    Misriah 2442

    If you find yourself missing shots with the WSTR Combat Shotgun and wonder about a better alternative, the Misriah 2442 is a great automatic shotgun. It provides more shots per magazine and maintains the strengths of close-range damage and usability that you expect from a shotgun. Although it might not appear often early in the game—since the WSTR is more accessible—once unlocked, this shotgun is considered the best for PvP.

    Longshot

    For players who prefer sniping from a distance, the Longshot is the way to go. It has excellent range and deals significant damage. Its high fire rate also gives you a good chance to correct missed shots and still take down enemies effectively.

    BR33 Volley Rifle

    When it comes to precision rifles, the BR33 Volley Rifle is hard to beat. It features high stability, low recoil, and a decent fire rate, making it versatile for short to medium and long-range combat. Even if burst-fire rifles aren’t your style, give this one a try. Its accuracy with headshots is impressive, and many players consider it one of the best weapons overall in the game.

    Magnum MC

    Although no handgun is currently outstanding in Marathon, the Magnum MC earns a spot because it’s excellent for headshots. It requires some practice to master, but once you get the hang of it, landing quick, precise shots feels great. Its small size makes it easy to switch to, and it’s more comfortable to carry than heavier weapons.

    This list covers the top weapons for PvP in Marathon, each suited to different playstyles, from close-range shotguns to long-range snipers and precise pistols.

  • How to Play Duos in Marathon: Completing and Solving Tips

    How to Play Duos in Marathon: Completing and Solving Tips

    Marathon is a constantly online extraction shooter that you can play alone or with a team of three players, with matchmaking options available. However, playing with only one friend and no others wasn’t possible at first. That changed a few weeks after launch when an update introduced an experimental Duos mode.

    What does Duos add to the game? Does it change how you play? In this guide, we’ll cover everything about Marathon’s Duos mode, how to get started, and some tips to make your experience better.

    Keep in mind: Duos is a limited-time feature that Bungie is testing out. It will be available for at least two weeks starting from March 18.

    How To Play Duos

    To join Duos, you need to invite a friend or someone from your contact list. Currently, there’s no matchmaking for Duos, and solo runs are not an option.

    Once your friend is ready, select the zone called Perimeter Duo—it’s the only map available for now. There are no other requirements, and the gameplay remains the same. Below, we’ll share some tips and important things to remember.

    This mode was added during the same week that the Archive Cryo and Ranked modes were launched. Be sure to check out their guides for more details.

    How Does the Pacing Change?

    One common question is whether the gameplay pace is different with Duos. The answer is yes. After some hours playing this mode, it’s clear that the pace slows down. You might encounter fewer fights and experience longer pauses between encounters. Since squads are smaller, players tend to be more cautious and avoid engaging in every possible fight. This makes runs feel slower—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

    Expect to see more careful players. Always be aware of your sounds and position, as the gameplay varies; you might run into no one at all, or face a skilled duo that takes you down with simple mistakes.

    Team Composition for Duos

    Our recommendations for team setups in three-player squads still apply here. We suggest always having a medic, like the Triage class, to provide healing support.

    You can also succeed with one player focused on environmental awareness (such as Recon) and the other dealing high damage (like Destroyer). Find a good balance that helps you during fights and while looting.

    Be Careful When Facing UESC Units

    Going against UESC units, especially the rarer enemy machines, can be more dangerous in Duos. Without a full squad, there’s less backup for revives, sharing items, or dealing damage.

    Overwhelming UESC units can catch you off guard. We experienced a tough time in the Hauler area with a small team, especially when we hadn’t looted much beforehand. The enemy can surprise you by quickly overpowering your team. Always decide carefully when to engage these enemies.

    The Main Goal Remains the Same

    In Duos, your objectives stay unchanged: you need to enter the map, loot supplies, survive, and escape successfully. How you approach these goals depends on what you and your teammate want—whether it’s looting everything, hunting for runners for fun, or focusing on completing Contracts.

    My teammate and I enjoyed completing exploration Contracts in Perimeter, so that’s what we recommend. While Perimeter isn’t the richest loot zone in the game, it’s useful for starting out or when your storage is empty.

    As for PvP battles, they’re now more tense with fewer players, but luck can play a bigger role. Always stay cautious and remember that stakes are different in Duos.


    This mode was introduced during an active testing phase, so keep an eye out for any future updates or changes.

  • How to Play Ranked in Marathon: Completing & Solving Tips

    How to Play Ranked in Marathon: Completing & Solving Tips

    With the introduction of Cryo Archive, the highly anticipated end-game zone in Marathon, players also got their first chance to try out the Ranked mode. This mode adds more pressure to an already intense game. If you’re tired of playing without anything to show for it besides your loot, Ranked is ready for you.

    Ranked has its own set of rules, including the need to understand Holotags. You also need to meet certain gear requirements to join. Here’s everything you should know about Ranked in Marathon, including how to participate and how to improve your Rank.

    How Ranked Works

    There are six Ranks in the game: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond, and Pinnacle. Each Rank is divided into three levels: III, II, and I. This means you start at Bronze III and move up to Bronze I before advancing to Silver III, and so on.

    To join Ranked, you must form a team of three players and choose between Low-Stakes Queue and High-Stakes Queue.

    The Low-Stakes Queue is open to all players but mainly focused on Bronze, Silver, and Gold Ranks. You need at least 3,000 Credits worth of gear and a team with a low-Rank Holotag to join this queue.

    For the High-Stakes Queue, you must be at least Platinum, equipped with a 10,000 Credits loadout, and have a Holotag from Platinum, Diamond, or Pinnacle ranks.

    Holotags and Targets

    Holotags are new items that you can buy in the Armory or find while defeating Runners. These tags set a gear value goal for your team during a Ranked match. Your squad must reach the gear target specified by the Holotag and successfully exfil to win and earn Ranked points. Looted Holotags increase your gear target for that run.

    For example, a Bronze Holotag might set a 900 gear value goal. If your team doesn’t reach this target, you won’t gain points, but your losses are shown through the Holotag system, including penalties if your team gets wiped out. If your team exfil but doesn’t meet the target, you keep your current points without any increase.

    Rewards for Ranking Up

    Once you earn a Rank for the first time, you’re rewarded with useful loot or exclusive items. Rewards can include weapon skins, titles, a special Destroyer Runner Shell, and more.

    When and Where Is Ranked Available?

    Ranked is only open on weekends. During that time, only one map is available each weekend, along with the two queues we mentioned earlier. For example, the first weekend started on the Perimeter map.

  • How to Play Cryo Archive in Marathon: Completing and Solving Guide

    How to Play Cryo Archive in Marathon: Completing and Solving Guide

    Cryo Archive arrived in the second half of March as promised. Marathon players can now access the end-game map of Season 1, which features some of the toughest battles in the entire game. However, the question is: can you actually play on Cryo Archive?

    This map has special requirements that set it apart from other locations in the game. While Outpost requires players to be above a certain Runner Level, Cryo Archive demands even more. Here’s what you need to know about how to unlock and access Cryo Archive. Make sure you’re prepared for the challenge.

    How to Access Cryo Archive

    While Cryo Archive already shows up on the location select screen at the bottom, you can only choose it if certain conditions are met:

    • Your Runner Level must be at least 25.
    • You need to have unlocked all factions, meaning you have completed the main contract for each faction.
    • You must be playing in a group with two other players.
    • Your loadout value must be at least 5,000 credits, or gear ante.

    Tip: To level up quickly, check out our guide. For your gear, focus on acquiring Deluxe (blue) equipment pieces since they significantly boost your gear ante. If you have mostly green (Enhanced) items with a few Deluxe pieces, your gear ante will be around 3,000. Use our traders’ guide to find the best equipment to purchase.

    When Is Cryo Archive Available?

    Cryo Archive is only accessible during weekends—specifically, from Friday through Sunday. This timing is designed to match the map’s unique challenges. The idea is to gather and upgrade your best gear during the week and then test it out in the intense battles over the weekend.

  • Top Vandal Loadout for Marathon Completing and Solving

    Top Vandal Loadout for Marathon Completing and Solving

    Marathon offers a variety of classes called Runner Shells. Some focus on attacking, others excel at sneaking, and some have unique drones that amusingly steal enemy loot. One of these is Vandal.

    While it’s true that all Runner Shells can be powerful and you can succeed with any of them if you’re skilled at the maps and shooting, some classes are more complex than others. Let’s explore Vandal, examining their potential builds and abilities in Marathon.

    Vandal Overview

    If you’re new to the game, Vandal might not be the best choice. You’ll need a lot of practice to master their movement enhancements because it’s crucial to get a feel for when to run, use the Power Slide, manage heat, and understand each map’s layout.

    With Vandal, you can run to high places and reach elevated platforms thanks to their built-in double jump. They’re arguably the fastest character in Marathon, with excellent mobility that can make them outperform many others in this aspect.

    However, as you use their abilities, you’ll notice how quickly heat rises, which can leave you vulnerable if you’re not careful. Additionally, Vandal is more of a solo performer — they lack abilities that directly support teammates.

    Vandal Abilities

    Ability Type Description Cooldown/Duration
    Amplify Prime Gives a buff where less heat is generated, and movement and weapon handling improve. About 164 seconds (base)
    Disrupt Cannon Tactical Converts Vandal’s left arm into a cannon that fires damage-dealing blasts which push enemies. It can be charged for a bigger shot. About 64 seconds (base)
    Microjets Trait Allows double jumping. No cooldown, increases heat
    Power Slide Trait Lets you slide farther and faster. Same as Microjets; two slides overheat quickly

    Using Disrupt Cannon

    You can use the Disrupt Cannon to toss enemies out of cover or push them into your line of fire, making them vulnerable. When enemies take cover, you’ll force them out of hiding, which can help your team. But if used poorly, it might push enemies out of your team’s sight altogether, ruining your chances. It’s best to start by using it mainly for damage until you become more comfortable with its limitations.

    Power Slide Tips

    Power Slide is tricky because you can’t shoot while sliding. Use it to get into unexpected positions, reach higher ground, or evade attacks. Remember, performing two Power Slides in quick succession or using them without managing heat could cause you to overheat, leaving you vulnerable.

    Vandal Abilities Summary

    • Amplify (Prime): Buff that reduces heat and boosts speed/dexterity; 164 sec cooldown.
    • Disrupt Cannon: Fires a damaging blast; 64 sec cooldown.
    • Microjets: Double jump; no cooldown but increases heat.
    • Power Slide: Long-range slide; causes heat buildup.

    Best Vandal Loadouts

    You can approach Vandal in two ways: either pack them with enough gear to survive their fragility, especially as a beginner, or keep things minimal with just essential weapons and supplies.

    Early Game Vandal Build

    Item Recommendation
    Primary Weapon M77 Assault Rifle
    Secondary Weapon CE Tactical Sidearm
    Backpack The best available
    Shield The best available
    Equipment Smoke Grenade
    Cores Out of Dodge: Clears heat when shields break.
    TAG!: Enhances Disrupt Cannon for extra damage and target pinging.
    Implants – Head: Augmented Capacitors V2
    – Torso: Survival Kit V2
    – Legs: Graceful Landing V2 or Distance Runner V2

    Note: Basic implants that boost mobility and speed are recommended early on, with situational cores like TAG! offering strategic advantages.

    Late Game Vandal Build

    Item Recommendation
    Primary Weapon V75 SCAR
    Secondary Weapon WSTR Combat Shotgun
    Backpack The best available
    Shield The best available
    Equipment EMP Grenade
    Cores Adrenal Core: Reduces heat generated during movement abilities, especially with a Cardio Kick.
    Mechanized Holsters: Reloads weapons from reserves and recharges current batteries.
    Implants – Head: Regen V4
    – Torso: Hurting Hands V4 or Survival Kit V4
    – Legs: Bionic Leg Upgrades V5 or V4

    Note: Currently, Vandal’s late-game cores are fairly standard, with some players switching to the Microjet Efficiency Package for extra jumps if available. Movement remains a focus even if their core options aren’t as impressive as other characters.

  • Ultimate Destroyer Loadout in Marathon: Strategies for Completing and Solving

    Ultimate Destroyer Loadout in Marathon: Strategies for Completing and Solving

    If you’re struggling in Marathon and want to choose a relatively easy class, the Destroyer might be a good option. This Runner Shell combines abilities that improve your movement across all maps while allowing you to take down enemies, whether they’re UESC units or other Runners.

    Being approachable doesn’t mean it’s simple to master. This isn’t a straightforward extraction shooter. Let’s review the best builds for the Destroyer, explain what each ability does, and discuss how best to play with this Runner Shell in Marathon.

    Destroyer Overview

    Destroyer is a well-balanced class that offers both strong defenses and attack options. For instance, their Tactical Ability, Riot Barricade, lets you block incoming damage. To maximize its effectiveness, you should combo this with your ability to thrust while in the air. Here’s how:

    • Run toward an enemy while activating Riot Barricade.
    • Wait for them to use their charger and start reloading.
    • Then jump and use your Thruster to move to the side, throwing off their aim.

    This tactic is effective in 1v1 encounters. Make good use of the Destroyer’s speed to either escape enemies or chase after them. Just keep an eye on your Heat level, as overheating can leave you vulnerable in combat.

    Destroyer’s Prime Ability

    The Prime ability, Search and Destroy, is excellent for dealing heavy damage. With skill and good positioning, you can take out one or two enemies at a time.

    Destroyer Abilities

    Ability Type What It Does Cooldown/Duration
    Search and Destroy Prime Deploys shoulder-mounted missile pods that damage and immobilize targets hit by your weapons. Cooldown: 286 seconds; Duration: 30 seconds
    Riot Barricade Tactical Activates an energy shield that blocks all incoming damage. Consumes energy and more if damaged. Cooldown: 12 sec; Duration: 30 sec
    Thruster Trait Uses boosters to thrust in a direction while airborne. Increases heat each use. No cooldown; available after touching ground
    Tactical Sprint Trait Double-tap Sprint to move faster, building Heat gauge. Same as Thruster

    Best Destroyer Loadouts

    We’ve prepared two main builds:

    1. Early-Game Build: For when you’ve played a few hours and have basic weapons.
    2. Late-Game Build: When you have advanced gear and a substantial vault.

    Your abilities let you equip any weapon type you prefer—mixing close-quarters and mid-range weapons like shotguns and assault rifles is recommended. Play aggressively, especially when your Prime is ready, and use Riot Barricade wisely.

    Early-Game Build

    | Primary | Bully SMG |
    | Secondary | Magnum MC |
    | Backpack | Best available |
    | Shield | Best available |
    | Equipment | Ammo Crate |

    Cores

    • Slot 1: Bombardier (Extends Search and Destroy with enemy kills)
    • Slot 2: Heavy Ordnance (Reduces cooldown when defeating enemies with explosive damage)

    Implants

    • Head: Regen V2 (Improves healing but slightly reduces weapon handling)
    • Torso: Survival Kit V2 (Boosts Firewall, hardware, ping duration, revives, self-repair)
    • Legs: Solid Stance V2 (Faster after shield charge)

    Late-Game Build

    | Primary | Impact HAR |
    | Secondary | WSTR Combat Shotgun |
    | Backpack | Best available |
    | Shield | Best available |
    | Equipment | Bubble Shield |

    Cores

    • Slot 1: Counter Attack (Retaliates missile fire when Riot Barricade is hit)
    • Slot 2: Bullrush (Keeps energy drain minimal during Tactical Sprint)

    Implants

    • Head: Regen V4 (Significantly improved healing)
    • Torso: Helping Hands V4 (Better rifle handling and quick Firewall recovery)
    • Legs: Graceful Landings V4 (Better defense and sprinting after kills)

    With this endgame setup, go full offense, push enemies hard, and make Riot Barricade both a shield and a weapon. Your aggressive tactics and strong defenses will make the Destroyer a boss on the battlefield.

  • How to Barter with Traders During Marathon: Completing and Solving Strategies

    How to Barter with Traders During Marathon: Completing and Solving Strategies

    Marathon is centered around collecting loot, just like many other extraction shooters. The goal is to find better gear to help you survive in tougher zones where both player versus player (PvP) and player versus environment (PvE) combat are intensified. These dangerous areas push you to use every resource at your disposal to get more valuable loot and make it out alive. Since Marathon is more “hardcore,” achieving this is much easier said than done.

    Luckily, you can access decent equipment before jumping into a zone by using the Armory or Sponsored Kits. This allows you to spend your credits on loot, giving you a bit more confidence if your inventory is running low. However, not everything will be available for purchase right away, so prioritizing these options early on is important.

    ### Complete Guide to the Armory and Traders

    The Armory unlocks once you establish a connection with ONI, which is the leader of the CyberAcme Faction. This is a required step right at the start of the game, and it grants access to this important feature. By gaining reputation with CyberAcme, you can complete contracts for them, earn reputation points, and unlock special upgrades that improve your combat skills and other factors.

    To access the Armory, open your Vault and click on the “Armory” tab located in the top right corner of the screen. You will see all available items for purchase, with different factions listed on the left. While only one faction is initially available, you can buy items from all six vendors or factions as long as you have enough resources.

    Most items in the Armory cost Credits. There’s also a section called “Barter Wares” at the top of the list, which includes items that require Unstable Diodes—standard salvage resources scattered across zones in the game. Keep in mind, many items won’t be available from the start. You’ll need to unlock the ability to purchase them by progressing in the game.

    ### How to unlock more items in the Armory

    Expanding your inventory of available gear involves earning reputation with each faction. As you build your reputation, you can unlock access to more gear by spending resources to unlock their specific offerings. This process is vital because each faction has its own specialties, making some more suitable for what you’re aiming for.

    For example, the Traxus Faction focuses on weapon attachments, so most of their unlocks improve that aspect of your setup. On the other hand, the Arachne Faction specializes in implants and PvP weapons such as the WSTR Combat Shotgun. To get the most out of the Armory, you’ll need to grind with every faction, since they all provide valuable gear that can combine into powerful builds.

  • Complete Your Marathon Journey: Solving Every Map Guide

    Complete Your Marathon Journey: Solving Every Map Guide

    After completing the tutorial run in Marathon and starting your first real game, you’ll notice that the map screen shows three different maps, with one of them having two versions. Each map is unique, offering different environments and atmospheres.

    Depending on the map, you’ll experience different tactical challenges. For example, one map might have many open areas making you vulnerable to snipers, while another features tight, enclosed spaces that are harder for enemies to snipe through. Knowing what each map offers is crucial because your equipment and strategy depend on it. Also, you need to play on all the maps to complete certain contracts.

    How to Unlock Every Map

    Most of Marathon’s maps are available from the start, with some exceptions. When you join your first lobby, you’ll automatically have access to the following maps: Perimeter (Beginner), Perimeter, and Dire Marsh.

    The beginner version of Perimeter differs from the regular one mainly in the number of players spawning there. This makes it easier for newcomers to get used to the gameplay since the robots can be quite challenging.

    Note: The beginner Perimeter map is only available for your first two runs; it won’t be available for subsequent matches after those initial two, regardless of which map you choose.

    There’s also an Outpost map that’s initially locked. To unlock it, you need to reach level 12 in a specific season. You can see your current level at the top left of the main menu. To level up faster, it’s best to team up in three-player lobbies, even if you join with random players, because you earn more experience points.


    Best Loot Spots for Each Map

    When you enter a map in Marathon, your main goal is to find the best loot. Your map highlights all the key loot locations, but some areas tend to have more valuable items than others. Here are the top loot spots on each map:

    • Perimeter: Overflow and North Relay are the best places to find loot. If you’re new, the Hauler area is also a good choice because it offers more protection.

    • Dire Marsh: The most loot can be found in the Complex and Maintenance areas. The Complex can be tricky to navigate at first, but it’s worth exploring.

    • Outpost: The best loot is beneath the Orientation and Airfield sections. These areas tend to have more valuable supplies.


    Tips for Each Map

    Depending on which map you’re playing, here are some advice points to keep in mind:

    Map Tips
    Perimeter This map is good for beginners since most large areas are separated, making it easier to spot nearby enemies. Be aware of a big wall on the north and south sides. Learn where you can enter and exit this wall — it will help you during fights.
    Dire Marsh Many buildings are connected, allowing enemies to sneak up easily. The middle anomaly area is difficult to navigate, so try to avoid it if possible.
    Outpost Best suited for close-quarters combat, with many players hiding inside buildings. It’s a hectic map with environmental hazards that force you to stay inside, so it’s better for experienced players.
  • How to Farm Credits in Marathon by Completing and Solving Challenges

    How to Farm Credits in Marathon by Completing and Solving Challenges

    A strong economy is essential in any extraction shooter, and it’s no different in Marathon. Your level of preparedness depends on how lucky you are when looting and the quality of gear you start with. High-quality equipment requires Credits, which are the main currency in the game.

    Credits are used to buy items and gear from the Armory. But after several runs, you might find it tough to save up enough. In this guide, we’ll share some tips on how to farm Credits effectively in Marathon.

    How to Get Credits

    There are two main ways to earn Credits in Marathon. We’ll cover them below.

    First, upgrading your Credit limit is important. On the CyberAcme Faction tree, there’s an upgrade that increases your wallet capacity. The first upgrade costs 2,500 Credits and raises your limit to 20,000. There are four more upgrades you can unlock to increase it further.

    Find Loot and Credits During Runs

    Your top priority should be to find good loot during your missions. You can always check how much an item is worth by hovering over it, but you need to exfil safely to bring your loot back.

    Initially, focus on grabbing everything you come across. As your storage capacity improves, you can be more selective. When your inventory is full and there’s nothing more to do, focus on escaping alive. Keep an eye out for uncommon items that can give you extra profit.

    Always compare the rarity of loot with what you already have. Rarer items tend to be more valuable. The game sorts loot by rarity from least rare to rare: Grey, then higher levels.

    Important items to watch for:

    • Valuable Items: Marked with a money bag symbol, these are auto-sold when you return.
    • Data Cards: Items that give Credits instantly to you and your team, even if you die. They’re found in containers, on shelves, or on the ground.
    • Credits: You can pick these up directly from fallen enemies or found in containers, but most often, they’re dropped by defeated Runners.

    Look for locations known for frequent conflicts and locked rooms, as they usually contain valuable loot. Using free Sponsored Kits can help protect your gear and save resources, and consider the Rook Runner Shell class, which is designed for scavenging and gathering loot with less risk.

    Selling Equipment

    After a successful run, you can sell items in your Inventory or stored in the Vault. Check prices carefully to decide what to keep and what to sell. Selling gear allows you to rebuild your Vault with Sponsored Kits, free weapons, and other items earned through Faction Contracts and upgrades.

    However, heading out on runs without solid gear can be risky, so balance your sales and purchases to ensure you’re well-prepared for each mission.

  • How To Obtain and Use Schemas in Marathon: Completing and Solving

    How To Obtain and Use Schemas in Marathon: Completing and Solving

    Finding and purchasing good weapons is crucial during your Marathon gameplay. Without solid firepower, taking down other Runners or UESC units becomes much more difficult. While you have a knife and some Runner Shells possess lethal abilities, relying solely on them isn’t enough.

    Sometimes, during a run, you may struggle to find strong weapons or just don’t have anything suitable in your inventory. You might also want to avoid using a Sponsored Kit. That’s where Schemas come into play. Here’s what you need to know about Schemas and how to use them in Marathon.

    ### What Are Schemas?

    Schemas are special items that let you unlock weapons. Once you acquire a Schema, the weapon it represents is automatically unlocked in the Armory. You can see the available weapons under the Schema category on the right side of any Faction tab.

    This process is the same across all Factions, so it doesn’t matter which one you’re checking. You’ll see all the weapons you’ve unlocked through Schemas—hover over a weapon to see how many Credits it costs to unlock. Schemas don’t expire over time, but they do have limited uses—usually three. After purchasing the weapon enough times, it will be removed from the Schema section.

    ### How To Get Schemas

    The easiest way to obtain Schemas is through the Reward Pass. As you play and complete runs, you earn Sink— a special currency used to buy tiers and unlock rewards in the pass. If you don’t have the Premium Reward Pass, don’t worry— Schemas are still available in the free tiers.

    You can also find Schemas while looting. They sometimes appear in containers and other locations on any map. However, you must successfully exfil with the Schema in your inventory to be able to redeem it in the Armory.

  • Which Runner Shell Class Should You Choose for Completing in Marathon?

    Which Runner Shell Class Should You Choose for Completing in Marathon?

    Marathon combines the intense, challenging, and resource-limited feel of an extraction shooter with the diverse skills found in hero or team-based games with class systems. The different character types are called Runner Shells, and each one influences how you fight and collect loot across various locations.

    Are you someone who prefers to support your team? Or do you like to stay on the move and be quick? Maybe you enjoy playing solo and avoiding others. Let’s go over each Marathon Runner Shell and what they can do.

    Vandal
    This class is tough for new players. Vandal focuses on speed and mobility. You get a special slide move that covers more ground and builds momentum, but it uses heat and you can’t shoot while sliding. Vandal can also double jump, helping you access high spots or reach distant places—just watch your heat level.
    Their prime ability boosts your movement and aiming skills and lowers your heat production. Vandal also carries a cannon that pushes enemies back when struck. Managing heat can be difficult early on, but if you master agility, this Shell is great for flanking and quick escapes.

    Thief
    If loot gathering is your main goal, Thief is your best choice. Its primary ability, Pickpocket Drone, lets you steal loot from other players by attacking them with a rope—though you’ll need to hit again to pick up the loot after the first hit.
    Thief also has a grappling hook for reaching high places or shortening distances, and it doesn’t require anything to hang onto for it to work. The X-Ray Visor highlights loot containers based on their rarity and can also mark enemies on sight.
    This character isn’t built for combat but excels in stealth and loot collection. You can add explosives to your drone to attack enemies from a distance, which adds a surprise element.

    Destroyer
    The most straightforward Shell, Destroyer is still powerful. Its prime ability, Search and Destroy, uses support missiles fired while you shoot enemies, helping to clear out foes quickly.
    You can sprint faster by pressing twice, but that increases your heat. You can also activate a thruster in mid-air to dodge or close distance—though it raises your heat too. The Riot Barricade creates a shield that absorbs damage and isn’t affected by your heat, making it a useful defensive tool. Destroyer offers a balance of offense and defense, suitable for newcomers.

    Assassin
    Perfect for players who like to be sneaky and strike from the shadows. Assassin uses smoke and camo to hide and confuse enemies. Activating Active Camo makes you invisible to both AI and players, though you can still be seen if you’re close or move directly at your enemies.
    Its prime ability, Smoke Screen, throws a smoke bomb that creates a small area of concealment, giving you brief invisibility even while moving. The class is mainly about stealth and hit-and-run tactics rather than direct combat.

    Triage
    If you enjoy being the team medic, Triage is essential. Its prime ability, Reboot+, allows you to revive allies from a distance, saving time and risk compared to getting close.
    Triage also has a Med-Drone that replenishes health, shields, and slows down the demise of injured teammates. While not the most aggressive class, Triage is vital for supporting your team and keeping everyone alive, especially in squad play.

    Recon
    The tracker and scout of the group, Recon specializes in locating enemies. Its prime ability, Echo Pulse, automatically marks nearby enemies and robots, providing valuable intel to your team.
    The tactical, Tracker Drone, pursues enemies, overheats them, and reveals a trail to their position once their shield is down. Skilled Recon players can keep enemies exposed and provide crucial information during combat, making escapes and engagements well-informed.

    Rook
    Note that Rook cannot be used in team play with friends, as it’s designed for solo runs. It’s a loot-focused class with lower risk. You spawn later in matches and can use your prime ability, Rejuvenate, to slowly heal yourself—useful when you’re in a pinch but slow to recharge.
    Its tactical, Signal Mask, lets you pass through enemy units unnoticed. Rook is best suited for quick loot runs, exploring the map without drawing attention, but requires playing alone with full squads for the best experience.

  • All Rewards from Marathon’s First Season Battle Pass: Completing & Solving

    All Rewards from Marathon’s First Season Battle Pass: Completing & Solving

    Marathon is a live-service extraction shooter that will receive ongoing updates and new content over time, supported by Bungie. Like most online-only games in its genre, it features a battle pass called the Reward Pass.

    Veterans familiar with live-service games may find the Reward Pass similar to others they’ve seen before. However, there are some unique aspects to Marathon’s Reward Pass, including how it functions and its future expiration policies. Let’s review the first Reward Pass and all its rewards.

    How The Reward Pass Works

    The Reward Pass in Marathon is a variation of the classic battle pass model. As players play the game and earn a specific in-game currency called Silk, they can progress through tiers to unlock both free and premium rewards. These rewards include weapons, cosmetic items, and profile customization options.

    Every tier has a free item available to all players. Additionally, each tier also contains a premium item that can be unlocked by purchasing the Premium Reward Pass for $10. Once you buy a tier, you get both the free and the premium items for that tier, making it a one-time purchase per tier. For example, if a tier offers a free pistol skin and a premium weapon style, paying 30 Silk grants you both at once.

    It’s worth noting that item unlocking isn’t restricted to a specific order. You can purchase rewards in any sequence, except for the last page, which might have additional restrictions.

    Players use Silk, the in-game currency earned through gameplay, to buy tiers and unlock rewards. Those who purchase the Marathon Deluxe Edition receive a Premium Rewards Pass Voucher which allows automatic access to the premium pass.

    Every Reward in the First Season Reward Pass

    The first season’s Reward Pass includes six pages of rewards, totaling 52 unlockable items. Here’s a summary of some of the rewards available:

    • Page 1:

      • Magnum MC Schema (free)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • Retaliator LMG Schema (free)
      • Fresh Cut (premium)
      • Error (free)
      • Gothic Smack (premium)
      • Tactical Marker (free)
      • Non-zero (premium)
      • Limelight (free)
      • Spiked Dangle (premium)
    • Page 2:

      • BRRT SMG Schema (free)
      • Blue Sky (premium)
      • Jagged Purpose (free)
      • Construction (premium)
      • No Zone (free)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • Mint IP (free)
      • Subtle Impact (premium)
      • Parasite Clutch (premium)
      • Success (premium)
    • Page 3:

      • Rush Factor (free)
      • Paladin (premium)
      • Overcast Classic (free)
      • Heavy Metal (premium)
      • Death Mask (free)
      • Footnote 5 (premium)
      • Satiated Bliss (premium)
      • Jagged Intent (premium)
    • Page 4:

      • Copperhead RF Schema (free)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • V85 Circuit Breaker Schema (free)
      • Passive Rose (premium)
      • Achromatic Smack (free)
      • Satiated Bliss (premium)
      • Deep Blue (free)
      • Pleasure Mint (premium)
      • Parasite Clutch (premium)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • V00 Zeus RG Schema (free)
      • Midnight Illuminator (premium)
      • V99 Channel Rifle Schema (free)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • Death Mask (free)
      • Emergency Action Plan (premium)
      • Concrete Green (free)
      • Deconstruction (premium)
      • Spiked Dangle (premium)
      • Passive Impact (premium)
      • Hardhat (free)
      • Achromatic Rush (premium)
      • Overcast Classic (free)
      • Heavy Metal (premium)
      • Death Mask (free)
      • Footnote 5 (premium)

    Note: The detailed list continues across all pages, with a total of 52 rewards including skins, weapons, charms, emblems, and stickers, many of which can be achieved by either free or premium tiers.

    When Does The Reward Pass Expire?

    Bungie has confirmed that Reward Passes in Marathon are permanent; they won’t expire after a season changes. You can unlock your rewards at any time, regardless of season transitions. Additionally, rewards earned through the Reward Pass are not lost after seasonal resets, giving players ongoing access to their unlocked items.

  • How to Increase Backpack Capacity in Marathon by Completing and Solving

    How to Increase Backpack Capacity in Marathon by Completing and Solving

    Bungie’s retro-futuristic extraction shooter, Marathon, is now fully available. It offers a visually striking and extremely challenging PvPvE experience, where players must utilize everything at their disposal to escape with valuable loot. To carry large amounts of rare and powerful gear, you need to find Backpacks, which can be difficult to get early on.

    Luckily, as you progress, you can unlock Backpacks in the Armory by spending Credits. You can gradually unlock higher-tier Backpacks with more slots, letting you carry even more items. Be prepared to put in the effort, as unlocking these upgrades involves leveling up specific Factions.


    How To Unlock And Expand Your Backpack Size

    Getting a Backpack early is tricky, especially at the start, since you can’t buy them with Credits until later. But as you play more, you’ll find Backpacks from different sources, such as looting corpses, completing Contracts, or purchasing them in the Armory with Credits.

    One way to unlock Backpacks is by leveling the CyberAcme Faction—the first available faction. This allows you to buy Backpacks in their Armory using Credits. However, before you can do this, you need to meet certain levels and milestones, and have a good amount of Credits saved up. Below are the specific requirements for unlocking larger Backpacks in the CyberAcme Armory:


    Backpack Armory Requirements

    Upgrade Unlock Requirements Cost in Credits
    Carrier (+8 Slots) Enhanced Backpack CyAc Rank 5; 1,500 Credits N/A
    Carrier+ (+18 Slots) Deluxe Backpack CyAc Rank 15; 4,000 Credits N/A
    Max Looter (+24 Slots) Superior Backpack Unlocks at max rank in faction N/A

    Note: To unlock higher-tier Backpacks, you’ll need to reach specific ranks and have enough Credits. Some of these unlocks also require completing certain Milestones.


    Additional Ways To Get Backpacks

    While unlocking through the CyAc Armory is straightforward with enough grinding, there are other ways to obtain better Backpacks earlier in the game:

    • Completing Faction Contracts: These often include Backpacks as rewards. As you advance, you can get rarer versions like Deluxe Backpacks just by finishing Contracts.
    • Sponsored Kits: Some kits available for purchase include Backpacks. If you survive long enough and exfil with the kit, you keep the Backpack.
    • Loot Regions & Player Corpses: You can find Backpacks scattered across zones or take them from fallen players. These methods are especially useful early on before you have enough Credits to buy better ones.

    Note: Sponsored Kits can be costly in Credits, especially rarer ones. Make sure the kit’s layout suits your playstyle, since you must successfully exfil to keep the Backpack—or risk wasting Credits.


    Other Methods To Obtain Rarer Backpacks

    Getting Backpacks via looting and Contracts won’t always require Credits, especially if you’re lucky. Many times, completing Contracts will reward you with Backpacks, including rare versions like the Deluxe. Additionally, you might find Backpacks while looting or take them from other players’ corpses.

    Looting regions and engaging in PvP encounters are also reliable ways to come across Backpacks early in your run. These tactics improve your resources and inventory, giving you an edge in the game.

    Pro tip: For a bit of sneaky fun, players can occasionally steal rarer Backpacks from others using a Pickpocket Drone if the most valuable item in their inventory is a Backpack. This approach is rare but can be effective.


  • How To Increase Your Vault Size in Marathon by Completing and Solving

    How To Increase Your Vault Size in Marathon by Completing and Solving

    Marathon has arrived, showcasing Bungie’s impressive art style and visuals. It pairs these qualities with some of the most intense and frightening encounters in the genre. As expected in an extraction shooter, the goal is to gather rare and powerful loot, but your carrying capacity is limited. You can only hold so much until you expand your Vault Size, which lets you carry many more items than before.

    Expanding your Vault Size isn’t easy. Reaching the maximum size requires a lot of Credits, XP, and resources, so you’ll need to grind for these. The effort is worth it, as you’ll see how quickly your Vault fills up after a few successful runs into the challenging world of Tau Ceti IV.

    How To Expand Your Vault Size

    To expand your Vault, you need to grind and gather resources. You start with just 160 slots, but with effort, you can increase this. The first available Faction for upgrades is CyberAcme. From the start, you can aim for their upgrades to boost your Vault space. The early upgrades don’t require too many resources, but as you progress, the costs and requirements increase, needing more Credits and a high Faction Reputation.

    You must reach specific Faction Ranks with CyberAcme before you can unlock each upgrade, and you’ll need the right amount of Credits and other resources to purchase them. Here’s a quick look at each Vault Size upgrade, what you need to unlock it, and the resources involved:

    All Vault Size Upgrades

    Upgrade Requirements
    Expansion One CyberAcme Rank 3, 2,500 Credits, 12 Unstable Diodes
    Expansion Two CyberAcme Rank 7, 4,000 Credits, 22 Unstable Diodes, 12 Unstable Gunmetal
    Expansion Three CyberAcme Rank 12, 5,000 Credits, 27 Unstable Diodes, 15 Unstable Gunmetal
    Expansion Four CyberAcme Rank 18, 7,000 Credits, 30 Unstable Diodes, 18 Unstable Gunmetal
    Expansion Five CyberAcme Rank 28, 10,000 Credits, 50 Unstable Diodes, 30 Unstable Gunmetal

    Unstable Diodes are mostly found in the Perimeter zone’s North and South Relay areas. Unstable Gunmetal is common in the Station region of the Perimeter zone and also in the Maintenance area of the Dire Marsh zone. While these resources can be traded for other items via the Armory, it’s better to save them for Vault expansions.

    How To Level Up The CyberAcme Faction

    One effective way to increase your faction reputation is to focus on leveling up CyAc. While collecting Credits, Unstable Diodes, and Unstable Gunmetal involves grinding runs and extracting with these items, actively working on leveling the faction can speed up the process.

    It’s recommended to use CyAc Sponsored Kits whenever possible. Running with these kits and successfully extracting will give you lots of reputation points. Completing Faction Contracts for CyAc also helps a lot since most contracts only require you to finish specific objectives, not necessarily a successful run.

    Carrying out many contracts and running with Sponsored Kits will help you rack up reputation faster. Playing solo is often easier for tackling contracts, allowing you to proceed at your own pace and focus on your tasks without distractions.

    While upgrading CyAc, it’s wise to also unlock and level other factions. They offer strong upgrades that can improve your chances of success and streamline your runs. Don’t overdo it with the same contracts, and take breaks to build your character and gear for a more balanced approach.

  • All You Need to Know About Faction Contracts in Marathon: Completing & Solving

    All You Need to Know About Faction Contracts in Marathon: Completing & Solving

    Marathon is finally available, giving players a chance to earn rare and valuable loot while focusing on their favorite Shells and Factions. Surviving the harsh, desolate, and dangerous areas is challenging enough, but leveling up Factions to unlock more items in the Armory and powerful upgrades is an added bonus.

    To level up Factions quickly, you need to complete Faction Contracts, which can initially seem confusing and overwhelming. But with a few helpful tips, you’ll be completing objectives and gaining Faction Reputation in no time.

    When you start your intense journey in Marathon, you’ll only have access to one Faction: CyberAcme (CyAc), led by the AI ONI. From there, you can accept and complete Contracts to earn Faction Reputation and other rewards, such as Credits, weapons, armor, and bundles.

    To view your Faction Contracts, go to the main menu and select the “Factions” option. Then click on the CyAc icon to open its main page. On the left side, click the “Contracts” tab to see all available contracts. There should be two: one highlighted with a bright green border on the left, and another unhighlighted on the right. The highlighted contract is your “Main Quest” — focus on completing it early because it’s how you’ll unlock more Factions.

    You can reroll the non-highlighted contracts up to ten times each week if you’re not satisfied with them. However, the main contracts cannot be rerolled, as they are crucial to your progress. If a contract seems too cumbersome or offers poor rewards, reroll it to receive a different one.

    To locate objectives within contracts, after selecting one to complete, you’ll load into a zone. Sometimes objectives like “Loot a Tool Cart” aren’t marked clearly on the map. You can try hovering over the objective text for additional info, which may include the region to find it in. If that’s not enough, open your map, hover over a region, and click “More Info.” A box will appear, showing what items are guaranteed or sporadic in that area. For Tool Carts, the Station region in the Perimeter zone often guarantees the item, so heading there increases your chances.

    Note: The Rook Runner Shell cannot complete Contracts, so use one of the six default Shells or a Sponsored Kit if you want to avoid risking your loot during tougher objectives.

    When you finish all the objectives, you can turn in your contract either after successfully exfiltrating or upon your character’s demise. Return to the Faction Contract page, select the completed contract, and click to turn it in. You’ll earn Faction Reputation and rewards, then you can start again with new contracts.

    Gaining Reputation with a Faction is key to unlocking upgrades like faster looting, increased heat resistance, and access to rarer gear in the Faction’s Armory. There are six Factions in total, each with plenty of content and upgrades to unlock, so the grind is worth it.

    You can preview the rewards and lore for each Contract before accepting by hovering over it and selecting “Show Story & Rewards,” giving you a better idea of what you’ll earn. Remember, you have ten rerolls per week to find contracts that suit your playstyle best.