Gaming: Best Marathon Characters Tier List: All Runner Shell Classes Explained

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There are seven characters in Marathon, known as Runner Shells, and each one comes with unique abilities to set them apart. Even if you've played old playtests for the game, the classes have changed quite a bit at launch—for one, they're not characters in the 'hero shooter' sense anymore, they're more like classes.

Below, I'll explain each of the seven Marathon Runner Shells and which ones I'd recommend you use if you're serious about your survival on Tau Ceti. It's not known for being a forgiving, friendly place, whether you're met by robots, aliens, or other people.

There are seven classes you can choose from, known as Runner Shells. I'll immediately point out that there are no bad options here, as each one brings something unique to the table. However, some are more valuable or powerful than others.

Here's where I'd rank each Runner Shell, plus an explanation for each of my S-tier picks:

It's hard to overstate just how valuable Triage's kit is. Medical supplies aren't easy to sustain, especially early on, and you don't want to waste any just to heal a smidgen of damage. Triage's Med Drone keeps you and your team topped up during and in between fights, which really is a lifesaver. Plus, these drones can also be used to prevent downed allies from bleeding out and share healing effects between teammates.

Triage's ultimate, Reboot+, can be used to revive allies from range or EMP enemies. I don't often recommend using it to zap an enemy, but instantly bringing an ally back from the realm of the dead from afar is very powerful in team fights. Given the team-focused nature of Triage in general, but especially their ultimate, this Shell isn't quite so strong in solo play.

Vandal's not only one of the coolest looking Runners, but they're also very mobile thanks to their double-jump, enhanced slide, and speed-boosting ultimate. It might sound basic, but enhanced mobility is a big deal in a game with Marathon's low default speed and limited sprint. At launch, Vandal is the pick if you aim to outmanoeuvre opponents on a dime.

Their Disrupt Cannon is similarly handy, effectively serving as a grenade on a cooldown. Cannon blasts deal decent explosive damage, but they also push anything (including yourself) a considerable distance. I love using it to flush enemies out of cover while they're trying to heal.

Stealth is a very useful skill in an extraction shooter

Source: PC Gamer