Marathon Guide | How To Play All Runners

Here’s a guide on how you can play different Runners in Marathon.

Game Guide by Ragib Rawnak on Mar 07, 2026

Before you start a match, you will spend time in the menu picking your Runner. This is the class system for the game. Each Runner has one Prime Ability, which is like an ultimate move. They also have one Tactical Ability and two Passive Traits.

You cannot change your character once the match starts. You can customize them further using Cores and Implants. Cores are special parts made for one specific Runner. They change how your abilities work.

For example, a Thief can use a Core to get an extra charge for a Grapple Device. Implants give you better stats and random perks. Any Runner can use any Implants. High-level ones like Ping Plus V5 even keep enemies marked after they hide behind a wall.

Marathon, Guide, How To Play All Runners

Best Choices for Beginners

If you are new, you should pick Destroyer. This is a tank class that plays on the front lines. You can use a Riot Barricade Shield to stop bullets in Marathon.

It also has a Search and Destroy Missile System that hits whatever you are aiming at. The shield is great for reviving friends or blocking dangerous areas. Another good choice is Recon.

This is a support class. You have an Echo Pulse that sends out a wave to see enemies through walls. Just be careful, because enemies can see the pulse too. You also get a Tracker Drone to hunt targets. It is a great way to help your team even if you are not the best at shooting.

Marathon, Guide, How To Play All Runners

Specialized Squad Roles

If you like playing with a group, Triage is the healer. You get a Med Drone to help an ally and Capacitive Gauntlets to revive teammates from far away. You also share your items with nearby friends. Assassin is very strong but hard to play.

You can use Active Camo in Marathon to become almost invisible, but attacking or taking damage breaks the effect.

You also have a Smoke Screen to hide in. This class is hard for beginners and can be stopped easily by a Recon player. Vandal is a fast class that can Double Jump and Power Slide. It is very hard to master, so you should learn the Heat System before trying it.

Marathon, Guide, How To Play All Runners

Looting and Low Stakes

Thief is a new class for players who want to avoid fights. You have a Grapple Hook and an X-ray Visor to find loot through walls. You also have a Pickpocket Drone to steal from enemy bags.

This is different from Recon because the X-ray Visor is quiet and only for you. Finally, there is Rook. This is a special class that works like a different mode. You go into a match that has already started with a random kit.

You bring nothing from your own vault, so you lose nothing if you die. It is a perfect way to learn maps or get more items if you have a losing streak. It opens at Season Level 3. Many players use a Rook run to warm up before risking their real gear.

Also, check our Marathon Review and other guides below