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Looking for tips to succeed in Marathon? This game isn’t straightforward — it’s packed with complicated systems like looting, contracts, Runner Shells, and building your setup. Plus, almost everything in the game seems eager to eliminate you, especially other players. It can feel intense and tough to survive. If you’re new and unsure how to play Bungie’s new extraction shooter, here are 15 useful tips to help you get started and improve.
1. Expect to be shot on sight
In Marathon, don’t expect kindness from other players, especially if you’re solo. It’s a competitive game with lots of player versus player action, and alliances are rare. Be ready for quick gunfights at any moment. The time it takes to down someone is short, so don’t get too comfortable. Also, since fights are fast, you’ll lose gear often—so don’t cling too tightly to your supplies.
2. UESC robots are deadly
While other players are a real threat, the UESC patrol robots are tough opponents too. They often carry strong weapons and use tricks like invisibility or long-range sniping. They’re dangerous and drop good loot, but they don’t shy away from attacking if you get too close. Staying at a distance is smarter, and avoiding fights is often best.
3. Use headphones for better hearing
Sound plays a big role in Marathon. Wearing headphones helps you localize enemy footsteps and other noises like reloading or looting, which can give you warning of nearby threats. Hearing well can help you avoid ambushes or prepare for incoming attacks.
4. Be selective with fights; use stealth
Stealth can keep you alive longer. Walk crouched, avoid making noise, and use cover to stay hidden. Sneaking past opponents or waiting for the right moment to strike can prevent unnecessary conflicts. If you do choose to fight, surprise and team coordination can turn the odds in your favor, even with basic weapons.
5. Use your knife wisely
Your main weapons can be noisy. For stealth, prefer using your knife. It’s quieter and still deadly. Hold the button to perform stronger slash attacks, which can quickly take down enemies. Add implants or upgrades to increase your melee damage and make your knife even more effective.
6. Finish off downed enemies to recharge shields
When you knock someone out, don’t keep shooting. Instead, approach and perform a finisher with your knife to quickly recharge some of your shields. This saves healing items and keeps you in the fight longer. Upgrading your Finisher Siphon stat makes these kills even more beneficial.
7. Rook and Assassin work well solo
If you prefer playing alone, Rook and Assassin are the best options. Rook is low risk—great for quick supply runs or grabbing loot without losing your gear. Assassin has invisibility and smoke, letting you sneak past enemies or set up ambushes. Both are excellent for solo play.
8. Use the map and track salvage
Keep an eye on your map for salvage and loot. Many high-value points of interest are marked with a distinctive icon. Hover over locations or items to learn more about them and find the loot you need. Focus on collecting the Salvage required for upgrades, and avoid cluttering your inventory with unnecessary items.
9. Gather Datacards and valuables for Credits
To earn more Credits and upgrade your gear, look for Valuables — marked with a pouch icon — and Datacard collectibles. They don’t take up much space but are worth selling when you extract. All Valuables and Datacards in your inventory will be automatically sold when you finish your run.
10. Stock up on healing items before starting
Healing items like Patch Kits and Shield Charges are scarce, especially green or better quality ones. Always bring enough before a match—having extras means you won’t be caught unprepared. It’s better to have the resources and not need them than to run out when you need healing most.
11. Manage heat and cool down effectively
Actions like sprinting, sliding, or quick melee cause heat buildup. Excess heat will overheat you, leaving you unable to perform crucial actions. To cool down faster, crouch, and if possible, stand in water or rain. Use consumables like Mechanic’s Kits for quick relief, and upgrade your Heat Capacity and Hardware stats to reduce overheating durations.
12. Avoid poison and toxins
Poison and toxic gases damage you over time and make healing less effective. Stay clear of poisonous areas and use a Mechanic’s Kit to remove negative effects if needed. Always be cautious of environmental hazards that could poison you.
13. Watch out for traps and turrets
Claymores and turrets are common and dangerous. Turrets often have long range and can shoot you from afar, so avoid fire zones and destroy them when possible. Claymores are indicated by red lasers—stay alert and avoid stepping into their trigger zones. You can shoot to disable or jump over them to bypass, but timing and awareness are key.
14. Don’t stand next to exfil points when activating
When it’s time to leave, don’t stay right next to the exfil beacon. Its loud noise can alert enemies and patrols nearby. Find a hiding spot until the countdown completes, especially for guarded exfils that summon reinforcements. Once the beacon is active and glowing, approach to escape before others do.
15. Be prepared and stay alert
Marathon is unpredictable. Always carry enough healing items, keep track of your salvage, and plan your exits carefully. Staying aware of your surroundings and managing your resources smartly will improve your chances of surviving and completing your objectives.
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