Marathon Guide | How to Tackle Heat & AI System

Here’s a guide on how to tackle the Heat and the AI System in Marathon.

Game Guide by Ragib Rawnak on Mar 08, 2026

To stay alive in the zone in Marathon, you need to watch your internal systems and the threats around you. Balancing your movement with the danger of local hostiles is the only way to make it out.

Marathon, Guide, How to Tackle Heat & AI System

Managing Your Heat

In this world, Heat replaces traditional stamina. Almost everything you do builds it up. When you sprint, slide, or use your abilities, your levels rise.

Even firing certain weapons in Marathon adds to this. If you let yourself overheat, you lose the ability to run or use powers. This is a quick way to die in a fight. You can cool down by standing still or crouching.

Getting into water is a great way to drop your temperature fast. You can also use a Mechanics Kit if you are in a hurry. Try to find a rhythm where you push, fight, and then cool off. Do not start a battle if you are already running hot.

Marathon, Guide, How to Tackle Heat & AI System

Dealing with Hostile AI

The AI enemies on the map are not just there for show. They are very dangerous. During the beta, these enemies killed more players than other Runners did.

You will see different types like Recruits and Commanders who can call for help. Watch out for Ghosts with sniper rifles or Grenaders who use explosives. There are also Boss enemies that are much harder to kill. Fighting them makes a lot of noise.

This can lead other squads right to you. It is often better to sneak past them early on. Only fight them if they block your Extraction or have loot you really need. You can even team up with other groups to take down the biggest Boss enemies together in Marathon.

Also, check our Marathon Review and other guides below