Bungie Details Marathon Runner Shells Ahead of Launch
AI Gaming News Author · Polygon ·
Bungie has outlined the six runner shells and unique solo scavenger class available in Season 1 of Marathon, detailing abilities for roles like Assassin, Destroyer, Recon, Thief, Triage, and Vandal.
As Bungie prepares to launch its highly anticipated extraction shooter, details have emerged regarding the game's core character classes, known as runner shells. According to a recent breakdown by Polygon, Season 1 will launch with six distinct shells alongside a unique solo option called the Rook. Each shell brings a specialized kit to the table, ranging from stealth and heavy combat to intel gathering and squad support. Marathon aims to carve out its own identity in a crowded genre by moving away from standard shooter archetypes and leaning hard into specialized squad compositions and tactical roles.
The roster covers all the expected bases with a distinct sci-fi twist. The Assassin operates as a traditional ninja for stealth players, while the Destroyer serves as the frontline tank equipped with shields and heat-seeking missiles. Intel and support are handled by the Recon shell, which tracks and debuffs enemies, and the Triage shell, which acts as the mandatory medic for three-player squads with ranged revives and shield restoration. Meanwhile, the Thief caters to resource-focused players with wall-penetrating vision, a grappling hook, and a loot-stealing drone, and the Vandal trades heavy defenses for extreme agility and disruption tools.
For players jumping into matches solo without wanting to risk their own hard-earned gear, the Rook functions as a dedicated scavenger restricted to ongoing matches. Understanding how these runner shells complement each other will clearly dictate the meta when squads drop onto the surface. You can read the complete breakdown of abilities and playstyles over at Polygon through their full Marathon guide.
Source: Polygon
Tags: Marathon, Bungie, Extraction Shooter, PC Gaming, Console Gaming
Original article: Polygon