The controller slipped in my sweaty hands as I watched my character bleed out in the dark. Another extraction gone wrong, another digital tragedy. That’s when it hit me: I needed a consequence-free playground, a space where I could learn the ropes without losing my shirt—or digital gear, as it were.
With Marathon‘s launch just around the corner, I’m not ashamed to admit I’m buying into the buzz. Bungie’s take on the extraction shooter—think Escape From Tarkov meets ARC Raiders—introduces Runner Shells, class-based characters with unique abilities. Triage Shells heal allies, while Thief Shells pilfer loot with drones. But it’s the newest addition, Rook, that’s really captured my attention.
Rook: The Great Equalizer
Remember those arcade games where one credit got you infinite continues? Rook feels like that. Bungie’s recent Developer Insights video spotlighted Rook, a Shell absent from last year’s alpha tests. Described as a Scavenger class, Rook enters matches empty-handed, echoing ARC Raiders’ accessible free loadout system.
One of the genre’s double-edged swords is the high stakes: lose, and you lose everything. Many casual players understandably balk at the risk. ARC Raiders‘ free loadout addresses this, offering a consequence-free entry point for newcomers. Now, Marathon seems to be following suit, offering a perfect training ground for rookies while still catering to veterans who crave high-stakes gameplay.
Selecting Rook drops you into an existing match, always as a solo player. “You risk nothing, and anything you take out is yours to keep,” says Kevin Yanes, Bungie’s Runner team lead. And honestly? That’s music to my ears. Losing hard-earned gear is frustrating. The chance to gain without risking feels like a weight lifted.
And I’m not alone. ARC Raiders’ zero-risk, potential-reward dynamic has attracted a broad audience. I’m not a hardcore extraction aficionado, and neither are the vast majority of players Marathon is targeting. Rook is a lifeline for the rest of us.
What is the goal of extraction shooters?
The goal in extraction shooters is simple: enter, acquire loot, and escape. The tension comes from the risk of losing everything you’ve gathered if you die before extracting. Games like Escape From Tarkov and Hunt: Showdown have mastered this formula, creating a dedicated player base that thrives on the adrenaline rush. However, this intensity can also be a barrier to entry for more casual players.
The real draw of the extraction genre is the constant risk of loss. It’s a gamble; every raid is a high-stakes poker game. Some players love that constant threat, seeing it as a test of skill and nerve. But for others, especially new players, it can be off-putting. It’s like being asked to run a marathon without any prior training.
Marathon offers both paths. Prefer sweating it out with friends? Go for it. Weapon mods, superior gear, and intense PvP and PvE encounters await. But having Rook as a safety net is game-changing. This inclusion addresses the genre’s inherent learning curve. It’s a clever move by Bungie.
How does Marathon compare to other extraction shooters?
Marathon sets itself apart through its Runner Shell system and, specifically, the Rook class. While games like Escape From Tarkov focus on realism and high stakes, and Hunt: Showdown emphasizes PvPvE combat, Marathon seems to be aiming for a broader appeal by offering a more forgiving entry point. This is particularly evident in the inclusion of Rook, which allows players to experience the core gameplay loop without the constant fear of losing their gear.
What are the best extraction shooters to play right now?
Aside from the anticipated Marathon, current standout extraction shooters include Escape From Tarkov (€45), known for its hardcore realism and complex systems; Hunt: Showdown (€40), celebrated for its unique blend of PvP and PvE set in a gothic horror world; and ARC Raiders (free), praised for its accessible gameplay and focus on cooperative action. Each offers a distinct experience, catering to different preferences within the genre. The value proposition of games like ARC Raiders compared to paid experiences from established studios is obvious, as the risk to try something new diminishes entirely.
The Road Ahead
Last year’s alpha test left some players unimpressed. However, since then, Bungie’s messaging and actions suggest they’re listening and adapting. Whether Marathon achieves commercial success remains to be seen, but the inclusion of Rook is a promising sign. If the full game can capitalize on this potential, Bungie might just have a hit on their hands.
Will Marathon‘s Rook class redefine the extraction shooter genre, or is it just a passing fad?