Marathon has pulled back the curtain on its initial set of four playable characters, known as Runners: Blackbird, Glitch, Locus, and Void. Each Runner comes equipped with their own unique sets of abilities and limitations, hinting at diverse gameplay experiences. Gamers can expect two additional characters to join the lineup when Marathon launches on September 23 for PC and consoles.
This reveal marks a significant milestone for the newly revived Marathon series, first announced in May 2023. Not only does it introduce an extraction shooter for the franchise, but it’s also Bungie’s first release under the Sony Interactive Entertainment umbrella. The acquisition deal between Sony and Bungie closed in July 2022, valued at $3.6 billion.
Just a month shy of the series’ re-launch anniversary, Bungie treated fans to an exciting look at Marathon on April 12. The studio, now backed by Sony, shared glimpses of gameplay along with a nine-minute animated short to set the stage for the game’s universe. These initial Runners—Blackbird, Glitch, Locus, and Void—bring their own flair to the battlefield.
The quartet offers distinct playstyles, appealing to a range of players. Void and Blackbird lean towards defensive strategies; Void specializes in stealth with smoke grenades and an active camouflage suit, making sneaky, hit-and-run techniques a natural fit. Meanwhile, Blackbird focuses on intelligence gathering, able to pinpoint enemy positions effectively.
For those who prefer a more aggressive approach, Locus might be the character of choice, boasting strong offensive capabilities but lacking in defense. Finally, Glitch harnesses speed and agility, using precise positioning to outmaneuver opponents.
Bungie hinted at two more classes joining the fray upon release, keeping details under wraps for now. There’s speculation that these additional characters will be available during a closed alpha test before the official launch. However, participants must sign non-disclosure agreements, reducing the risk of premature leaks.
With the game set to hit shelves on September 23, players have much to look forward to in this latest chapter of the Marathon series, as Bungie continues to build excitement around its characters and innovative gameplay.
