All Shells in Marathon, Ranked – Investment Policy

Things are getting really competitive in Marathon now! They’ve added ranked matches, which is awesome, and a new end-game area called Cryo Archive. But heads up – you need to have a loadout worth at least 5,000 credits just to get in, so you’ve gotta grind a bit before you can tackle that!

Since your valuable weapons and equipment are at stake, careful preparation is essential, and you’ll need to thoughtfully choose what to bring.

Items like proximity sensors, trap packs, self-revives, shield charges, and patch kits can significantly improve your chances of surviving, but choosing the right Legend – your ‘shell’ – is the most crucial decision you’ll make.

As a big Marathon fan, I’ve been trying to figure out which shells are actually the best, and after a lot of testing, I’ve put together a ranked list to help you choose the one that fits how you like to play. Hopefully, this will make deciding a little easier!

7. Rook

The Loot Goblin

If you want to finish quests or get more items for your storage, this scavenger shell is perfect for playing alone.

The Rook is different from the other shells. While they each start with a special ability, a tactical ability, and two unique traits, the Rook doesn’t have any traits. Instead, it enters the match a bit later with simple, complimentary weapons and equipment.

The Rook’s special ability, Signal Mask, briefly hides them from enemy detection. While not as strong as some other shells, the Rook still provides useful tools for completing missions.

6. Recon

Invaluable Intel

Dealing with surprise attacks, whether from UESC soldiers or enemy operatives, is tough. But the Recon shell will help you identify where danger is coming from.

Recon’s main skill, Echo Pulse, lets you find enemies over a wide area by revealing their positions, even through walls.

Recon isn’t as strong as some others because its shells are slow, but a skilled player can make it a powerful defender and excellent hunter.

5. Destroyer

Push the Pace

The Destroyer was designed for combat, featuring both a strong riot barricade and a sophisticated weapons system that includes guided missiles. While the barricade is useful in various scenarios, it’s the Destroyer’s speed and maneuverability that truly make it a formidable vehicle.

If you enjoy taking the lead and acting as your team’s tough defender, the destroyer class might be perfect for you. Use quick bursts of speed – like tactical sprint and thrusters – to get close to enemies, but always stay protected behind your shield.

I’ve discovered the combat shotgun is ideal for playing as the Destroyer. It lets you get close to enemies and inflict a lot of damage.

4. Assassin

Master of Deception

The Assassin’s kit is designed for quiet, effective attacks, but it’s also great for escaping danger. Its special ability, active camouflage, briefly makes you invisible, letting you either surprise enemies or slip away from a deadly situation.

Although this character is known for attacking, their special ability – a smoke screen – is really useful for protecting teammates who are down and giving you time to safely revive them.

3. Vandal

Moving Targets are Harder to Hit

Vandal ranks as the third-best kit, offering incredible agility to outmaneuver opponents. In fast-paced shooting games, skilled players use clever movement to confuse enemies and avoid getting hit, and Vandal excels at just that.

As a Vandal player, I absolutely love the Amplify ability! It’s a game-changer because it makes you so much faster, letting you zip around the map. Plus, it keeps your heat build-up down when you’re using your movement powers, which means you can keep moving without overheating. It’s all about speed and staying mobile!

Whether you’re rushing to be extracted before time runs out, or chasing down another player, Vandal will help you get there faster than ever.

2. Thief

Versatile Villain

I’ve been really enjoying playing as The Thief. While it can steal things, I mostly use it for quick movement and scouting. The grappling hook isn’t just for getting on rooftops – it’s fantastic for dodging and maneuvering during player-versus-player fights.

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The pickpocket drone offers a lot of flexibility in how you approach gameplay. It’s a great way to quickly collect loot without having to fight enemies directly, and it can also be used to scout ahead and gather information.

I use my drone to locate runners nearby and share their positions with my team. It’s a valuable tool for gathering information, whether you want to steer clear of them or go head-to-head.

Claymores can be placed on top of the pickpocket drone.

1. Triage

Not Your Average Healer

No matter how you’re going down – whether from ticks, poison, being stunned, enemy players, or even a bad fall – Triage can save you. It’s especially useful when playing with a team, potentially rescuing a losing fight, which is why it’s considered the best support ability.

Being down a teammate in player-versus-player combat usually puts you at a significant disadvantage, often leading to defeat. However, with Triage’s special ability, Reboot+, you can remotely revive a fallen teammate, giving them a second chance to rejoin the battle and potentially turn the tide.

Reboot+ is a remarkably powerful ability, and the Med-Drone feature of the shells lets you quickly heal several allies at once.

2026-03-24 18:42