Marathon's Mid-Season 2 Update is now live, introducing the experimental Vault Breaker PvE mode, new progression features and a range of balance adjustments across weapons and equipment
Marathon has launched its Mid-Season 2 Update, bringing the first experimental PvE mode, Vault Breaker, to all players alongside a suite of balance and progression changes. The update is available now across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Steam, with full cross-play and cross-save support. This marks the first time Marathon has introduced a dedicated PvE experience, expanding the game's live-service structure beyond its established PvP focus.
Vault Breaker PvE Mode
Vault Breaker is described as a roguelite-inspired mode set within the UESC Marathon's Cryo Archive. Players, known as Runners, can take on increasingly challenging Vaults in solo, duo or trio squads, regardless of their Runner Level. The mode is available as a limited-time event from 21 July to 4 August, offering a new way to hunt for loot and progress through the deck. This experimental approach allows the developers to gather feedback on PvE systems before considering longer-term integration.
Balance and Progression Updates
The Mid-Season 2 Update also delivers a range of balance changes and progression tweaks. Notable adjustments include buffs to the WSTR Combat Shotgun, rebalancing of the D54 Battle Pistol and Misriah 2442 shotgun, and the introduction of an equipment infil limit designed to reduce grenade and Bubble Shield spam. Implant iconography has been updated for clarity, and new Codex challenges provide access to cosmetics such as emblems, a profile background, a weapon style and a weapon charm. The update also refines progression systems, with faster faction advancement and new options for customising Runner shell stats.
Season 2 Content and Access
Season 2 remains available to all Marathon players, featuring the Night Marsh zone, the Sentinel Runner shell, new weapons and expanded customisation. The update builds on player feedback, introducing quality-of-life improvements and additional Armory offers. Sponsored Kit upgrade paths have been detailed in the official blog, and the update preview outlines the full scope of balance changes and new content. Access to Marathon requires an internet connection and, on consoles, a paid subscription. Cross-save functionality is supported for players linking their system network account to Bungie.net.
Platform Support and Social Channels
Marathon is available in both Standard and Deluxe editions for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Steam, with cross-play and cross-save enabled across all platforms. The game continues to receive regular updates, with recent news including new trailers, developer insights and cinematic reveals for various Runner shells. Players can follow official channels on YouTube, Instagram and Twitter/X for ongoing updates and community engagement.
Roguelite modes, such as Vault Breaker, blend elements of procedural generation and persistent progression with the risk of losing progress on failure. In live-service shooters, these modes offer replayability and a different pace from traditional PvP, often serving as a testbed for new mechanics. Limited-time events allow developers to experiment with features and gather player feedback before making permanent changes to the core game.
