Where to Buy Marathon
Marathon Gameplay Video
Marathon Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Time-to-Kill (TTK) | Very Fast / Lethal |
| Team Size | 1-3 Players |
| Match Duration | 20 Minutes (Max) |
| Wipe Cycle | 90 Days (Seasonal) |
| Weapon Count | 28 Base Platforms |
Marathon System Requirements
1080p
tune Minimum (Targets 1080p, Low settings, ~60 FPS) – Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.
tune Recommended (Targets 1080p, High settings, ~144+ FPS) – Competitive/High Preset, 1080p resolution, aiming for high-refresh-rate gameplay.
1440p
tune Competitive Enthusiast (Targets 1440p, High settings, ~144 FPS) – High Preset, 1440p resolution, with DLSS/FSR Quality, targeting high refresh rates.
2160p
tune 4K Ultra (Targets 4K, Ultra settings, ~60-120 FPS) – Ultra Preset, 2160p (4K) resolution, with DLSS/FSR Performance/Balanced.
Marathon Laptop Recommendations
memory Intel Core i7-12700H
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 140W
storage 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
US $1349
Model: MSI Pulse GL66 with RTX 3070 and i7 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core i7-12700H (Score: 900)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 (Score: 6600) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i9-13900H
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 140W
storage 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
US $999
Model: Acer Nitro V with RTX 4060 and i9 13th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core i9-13900H (Score: 1058)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
save Storage: 512GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i9-14900HX
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 140W
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
US $1749
Model: Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (i9-14900HX, RTX 4060)
memory CPU: Intel Core i9-14900HX (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i9-12900H
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti 150W
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
US $1397
Model: Asus Rog Strix Scar 15 with RTX 3070 Ti and i9 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core i9-12900H (Score: 1030)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti (Score: 7100) @ 150W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 75W
storage 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
US $799
Model: ASUS TUF A15 with RTX 3050 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS (Score: 1655)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 (Score: 7220) @ 75W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 6800H
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 140W
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
US $1299
Model: ASUS ROG Strix G15 with RTX 3060 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 6800H (Score: 880)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 (Score: 7448) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 100W
storage 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
US $1489
Model: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 Ultra with RTX 3080 and Ryzen 9
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS (Score: 820)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 (Score: 7904) @ 100W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i7-13620H
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
US $1350
Model: MSI Katana 15 with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core i7-13620H (Score: 843)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i7-14700HX
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
storage 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
US $1899
Model: Alienware M18 with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core i7-14700HX (Score: 860)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
memory Intel Core i9-14900HX
developer_board NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
US $1699
Model: MSI Creator M16 HX with RTX 4070
memory CPU: Intel Core i9-14900HX (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 (Score: 8700)
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (QHD+)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low Preset, 1080p resolution, with FSR/DLSS Performance, targeting a stable 60 FPS.).
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Core Requirements
- desktop_windowsOperating System: Windows 10 / Windows 11 (64-bit Required)
A 64-bit version of Windows 10 is the baseline. Windows 11 is recommended for better thread scheduling and to utilize features like DirectStorage for faster map loading.
- memoryDirectX: DirectX 12
The official requirement is expected to be DirectX 12. Modern engine features for lighting and geometry virtualization will rely on the DX12 API.
- save_altStorage Note: 100 GB available space (SSD Required)
An SSD is a mandatory requirement for all tiers. This is critical for fast map loading and streaming the game's high-fidelity, high-contrast assets without traversal stutter.
settings_applications Optimization Notes:
Upscaling: Native support for NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 (including Frame Generation), AMD FSR 3.1, and Intel XeSS is expected. NVIDIA Reflex is considered essential for competitive low-latency play.
Key Settings: Performance will be most affected by Global Illumination, Effects Quality, and View Distance. Players seeking a competitive edge will likely lower 'decorative' settings to maximize framerate and visual clarity.
Marathon: Map Size and Regions
The game features massive, distinct zones: Perimeter (Industrial), Dire Marsh (Biological/Greenery), and Outpost (Heist-focused). An endgame raid-like zone, The Cryo Archive, is set on the derelict Marathon ship itself. Maps are littered with environmental hazards like toxic plants and automated security turrets.
Marathon: Post-Launch Content / DLC
Marathon follows a 3-month seasonal cycle. Each season includes a 'Global Wipe' of gear and credits, new Faction Priority contracts, and the introduction of new Runner Shells or map expansions like 'The Cryo Archive'.
Marathon Skills & Upgrades Overview
Progression is horizontal and vertical. Faction reputation unlocks permanent skill tree nodes, while 'Cores' and 'Implants' allow for deep buildcrafting. Players upgrade Heat Capacity, Agility, and Loot Speed to survive longer. 'Schemas' allow players to craft lost weapons, though most gear is reset every season.
Marathon: Game Editions
Marathon is a free-to-play live service title. Premium Reward Passes offer seasonal cosmetics, early access to certain 'Liaison' contracts, and permanent 'Prestige Schemas' that do not reset during the seasonal global wipe.
Marathon: Cross-Platform / Crossplay
Full cross-play and cross-save are supported between PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. Players must use a Bungie.net ID to link accounts.
Marathon: Top 5 Weapons (Subjective/Iconic)
- 1. WSTR Combat Shotgun (Close-range beast), 2. Longshot Sniper (Corridor lockdown), 3. BRRT SMG (High aggression), 4. Ares RG Railgun (High-skill one-shot), 5. BR33 Volley Rifle (Mid-range precision).
Marathon Specific Game Elements
Marathon Weapons
- security
Ares RG (Railgun)
High wind-up, high-damage weapon capable of one-shotting fully shielded Runners.
- security
BRRT (SMG)
Five-shot burst weapon that eliminates recoil bloom.
- security
WSTR (Combat Shotgun)
Double-barreled close-quarters weapon. Can be modded for 3-shot bursts.
Marathon Vehicles
- directions_car
UESC Hauler (Static Environment)
Large transport vehicles found in the Perimeter map.
Marathon Animals / Creatures
- pets
Flock of Birds (Avian)
Role: Environmental Alarm / Audio Cue
- pets
Ticks (Swarming Alien Bug)
Role: Low-tier PvE Swarm Threat
Marathon Characters
- person
Runner - Protagonist (Class)
Cybernetic mercenary scavenging Tau Ceti IV.
- person
Tox Warden - Boss (Enemy)
A high-tier PvE enemy carrying Master Clearance Codes.
- person
UESC Commander - Elite NPC (Enemy)
Shielded AI security unit guarding high-tier loot.
Top 3 Characters:
Runner (Player), 2. The Tox Warden (Regional Boss), 3. Faction Liaisons (Contract givers).
Marathon Missions / Objectives
- flag
Final Exfil (Extraction)
Objective: Reach the last beacon before the timer hits zero
- flag
Priority Contract (Campaign/Progression)
Objective: Complete narrative tasks to unlock faction ranks
Top 3 Missions/Objectives:
Priority Contracts (Narrative unlocks), 2. Guarded Exfils (High-stakes survival), 3. Tox Warden Boss Hunt (For Master Clearance Codes).
Marathon Companions / Summons
- group
Pickpocket Drone (Robot)
Ability: Stealing items from enemies/world
- group
Tracker Drone (Robot)
Ability: Enemy detection and detonation
Marathon Collectibles
- collections_bookmark
Lockbox Key
Location/Use: Purchasable or found in world
- collections_bookmark
Schema
Location/Use: High-tier loot containers / Boss drops
Top 3 Collectibles:
Schemas (Infinite crafting), 2. Lockbox Keys (High-tier loot access), 3. Data Cards (Currency/Reputation valuables).
Marathon Armor
- shield
Assassin Shell
Focus/Stats: Low Armor, High Stealth, Active Camo
- shield
Destroyer Shell
Focus/Stats: High Armor, Low Agility, Wrist-mounted Barricade
- shield
Vandal Shell
Focus/Stats: High Heat Capacity, High Agility, Power Slide
Marathon Clothing / Appearance
- checkroom
Backpack
Details: Storage Expansion, Rarity Tiers
- checkroom
Runner Shell Skin
Details: Color Shaders, Emblem Decals
Marathon Other Features & Info
- labelMultiplayer Modes
The core mode is a PvPvE extraction loop for squads of 1-3. Features include 'Standard' runs and 'Rook' runs (late-join, zero-risk solo scavenging). Proximity voice chat is active but audible to enemies.
- labelUser Interface
A minimalist, diegetic HUD that mimics a Runner's visor. Vital info like the Heat Meter and 'Trace' stats on gear are integrated into the character's visual overlay.
- labelSound and Music
The game utilizes 'Audio Propagation' as a core mechanic. Sounds like bird flocks, reloading, or water splashes alert enemies. The score is a mix of synth-wave and industrial ambient tracks that ramp up during the Final Exfil.
- labelGraphics and Visuals
Utilizes a unique, high-saturation color palette with cel-shaded elements. The visuals emphasize bold iconography and high-contrast environments to aid in threat detection.
- labelAccessibility Features
Includes full controller remapping, colorblind modes for threat highlighting, visual sound indicators for footsteps, and adjustable FOV sliders on all platforms.
- labelStory and Setting
The game takes place in 2893 on Tau Ceti IV. A century after the mysterious disappearance of 30,000 colonists, the planet is a graveyard of corporate greed and rogue AI. The UESC Marathon ship looms in orbit as a symbol of the lost era. Players uncover 'Codex' entries to piece together the truth behind the colony's collapse and the hidden agendas of the six mega-corporations funding the Runner programs.
- labelTop 3 Mounts/Companions
- 1. Tracker Drone (Recon class), 2. Pickpocket Drone (Thief class), 3. Med-Drone (Triage class).
Marathon Frequently Asked Questions
-
help_outline What happens when I die?You lose all weapons, armor, and loot currently in your backpack. You only keep your permanent upgrades and Prestige Schemas.
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help_outline Can I play solo?Yes. You can enter as a solo Runner or use the 'Rook' shell for a zero-risk, late-join scavenging experience.
-
help_outline What is the Heat system?Heat replaces stamina. Sprinting and abilities build heat; if you overheat, you move at a crawl. Crouch-walking or water helps dissipate it.
-
help_outline How do weapon rarities work?Rarity is determined by attachments, not base damage. A gold gun simply has more/better attachments and 'Chips' than a gray one.
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help_outline What resets during the seasonal wipe?Looted gear, credits, faction reputation, and standard schemas reset. Cosmetics and Prestige Schemas are permanent.