As someone who has tried to get friends involved in extraction shooters, only to see them lose interest after a couple of defeats, I know how discouraging the genre can be. Death can be swift, and losing all your gear if you fail to escape makes defeat particularly disheartening.
This is especially evident in games like Escape from Tarkov, where survival elements such as thirst and injuries like fractures are crucial. Even in more casual iterations like Call of Duty‘s short-lived "DMZ" mode from Modern Warfare 2 (2022), losing can leave you so underprepared for the next round that even basic AI becomes a challenge. While some enjoy this level of difficulty, it appeals to a niche audience.
However, the recent gameplay reveal of Marathon suggests a more accessible approach to the genre. As a fan of the thrill these games offer, I’m optimistic that Bungie’s version could attract a broader audience to experience its highs without getting bogged down by the lows.
A Class-Based Approach Makes a Difference
In Marathon, players will choose one of six Runners when starting a game. Similar to classes in Destiny or characters in Apex Legends or Rainbow Six Siege, today’s reveal highlighted four Runners available during the game’s closed alpha:
- Locus: A combat-focused character known for aggressive gameplay.
- Blackbird: A reconnaissance expert who identifies threats for the team.
- Glitch: A fast disruptor using hit-and-run tactics.
- Void: A stealthy character capable of using smoke grenades and becoming invisible.
Players can enhance their Runners with various implants and "Cores." Each Runner has inherent abilities, like Glitch’s double jump and Locus’ deployable shields, providing a baseline of capabilities. Notably, Blackbird’s Ultimate allows players to interrogate a downed enemy to reveal their team’s positions, as noted by Gamesradar.
These class roles offer a clear strategy for players to follow in a match. Recognizing a Locus signals heavy firepower, while spotting a Void hints at stealth tactics. Players are steered into their roles at the start, without needing to acquire specific gear, creating clear expectations beyond just looting and escaping.
Marathon ensures players aren’t stuck scavenging just to be competitive. In contrast to other extraction shooters where losing means starting from scratch, Marathon offers a more forgiving baseline. Although the starter weapons may not be particularly strong, losing everything doesn’t leave you defenseless. You’ll still have your Runner abilities and pre-assigned loadouts for the next match.
While Marathon rewards long-term survival, having a set of useful abilities ready after respawning encourages players to keep contributing. Without survival mechanics like hunger or specific injuries and with Bungie’s expertise in creating engaging shooters, Marathon could be the game to bring extraction shooters into the spotlight.
