Overview
- Marathon introduces its first four playable characters: Blackbird, Glitch, Locus, and Void.
- The game’s class roster presents a range of abilities and weaknesses, promoting diverse gameplay experiences.
- Two additional characters will be included at launch, with Marathon set to release on September 23 for PC and consoles.
Marathon has recently unveiled some exciting gameplay features, showcasing its initial roster of four playable classes. More character archetypes will be available on launch day, enriching the player experience in Bungie’s highly anticipated gaming revival.
The resurrection of the Marathon series was first announced in May 2023, marking a landmark moment as this title will debut as Bungie’s first extraction shooter under the ownership of Sony Interactive Entertainment. This acquisition, finalized in July 2022, was part of a significant transaction valued at $3.6 billion.
As the second anniversary of its announcement approaches, Bungie took to the stage on April 12 to reveal details about Marathon. The development team provided a glimpse into the gameplay through captivating footage, along with a nine-minute animated short that sets the stage for the game’s universe. Among the revelations were the four classes, or “Runners,” characterized by their unique abilities and traits: Blackbird, Glitch, Locus, and Void.
Diverse Character Abilities in Marathon
The newly introduced characters offer a dynamic mix, each equipped with distinct strengths and weaknesses that encourage varied strategies for players. Among them, Void and Blackbird lean towards defensive playstyles, albeit in different ways. Void specializes in stealth tactics, armed with active camo and smoke grenades to facilitate hit-and-run maneuvers. Conversely, Blackbird’s strength lies in reconnaissance, offering players the ability to scout enemy positions, thus enhancing strategic gameplay.
Confirmed Classes for Bungie’s Marathon
| Character | Voice Actor | Playstyle |
|---|---|---|
| Blackbird | Nika Futterman | Focuses on scouting, which encourages strategic gameplay. |
| Glitch | Erica Lindbeck | A nimble character that relies on positioning and speed to outmaneuver opponents. |
| Locus | TBA | Heavy offensive abilities favor an aggressive playstyle, albeit at the cost of defense. |
| Void | Elias Toufexis | Stealth-oriented, utilizing active camo and smoke for strategic hits. |
| TBA | TBA | Two more unannounced classes are slated for launch. |
| TBA | TBA |
For those who prefer a bold approach, Locus offers robust offensive capabilities paired with weaker defensive attributes, appealing to players who thrive in aggressive engagements. Glitch, on the other hand, is characterized by her agility and positional advantage, allowing for tactical dominance during confrontations.
Bungie remains tight-lipped about the specifics of the final two classes, but further details are expected before the game’s release on September 23. It’s plausible that the complete roster will be accessible during the upcoming closed alpha test, though participants will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement, limiting the chances of any information leaks.