Marathon released a new cinematic trailer highlighting the Rook shell as it prepares for its week-long server slam starting tomorrow. Discover what makes this unique Runner shell stand out and how it operates within Marathon’s world.
Marathon Shows Off Rook in New Cinematic Trailer
Marathon’s Low-Risk, Solo-Focused Runner Shell
Marathon’s latest cinematic trailer showcases what the Rook shell is capable of for the game’s extraction shooter format. In the minute-and-a-half video, the Rook does what it does best: scavenging alone, slipping behind enemy lines, and avoiding direct firefights.
The Rook is the latest Runner shell players can use in the upcoming Server Slam weekend. It can only be played solo, where Rook players drop into a concurrent match, loot what they can, and quietly slip away to extract loot.
This effectively serves as Marathon’s version of a "free loadout" system, similar to how ARC Raiders reduces players’ gear fear. Both the Rook and free loadout-style systems encourage solo play without risking essential equipment, starting players with minimal gear, and allowing them to grow into silent and methodical hunters as the game progresses.
A month before the Rook’s cinematic trailer, Bungie had already released cinematics for other Runner Shells, such as the Tank-like Destroyer (Marathon’s version of a Destiny Titan) and the stealthy Assassin, often associated with Destiny 2’s Hunters, with each video highlighting their unique abilities.
The Rook had already been revealed by Bungie in its Runner Shells developer video a month earlier, alongside other shells such as Destroyer, Vandal, and Thief. Player reception toward the Rook shell has been largely positive, with many fans referring to them as "Friends" and suggesting they should not be met with the same level of aggression typically directed at other Runner shells, as its sole role is to scavenge.
Rook’s Abilities
Unlike the rest of Marathon’s six Runner Shells, which use two distinct tactical abilities, the Rook does not utilize any offensive capabilities. Instead, it relies on a cloaking system, which allows it to blend in with the game’s AI NPCs.
In the recently uploaded gameplay video showcasing all the Runner Shells, the Rook’s cloak lets it avoid combat by merging with enemy NPCs. These NPCs do not recognize the Rook as a threat, allowing it to slip away from most team fights unharmed by posing as a friend rather than a foe.
This makes the Rook an ideal shell for stress-free encounters, letting players focus on scavenging without worrying about losing important weapons and gear if they are defeated by hostile shells.
The Rook is Playable in Tomorrow’s Marathon Server Slam
Marathon is gearing up for tomorrow’s Server Slam, giving players a chance to play the game for free ahead of its March 5, 2026, release. Running from February 26, 2026, at 10 AM PT/1 PM ET to March 2, 2026, at 10 AM PT/ 1 PM ET, the Server Slam will let players experience five of the six Runner Shells, including the Rook.
The Server Slam features two of the game’s maps: Perimeter and Dire Marsh, not including the endgame UESC Marathon level or the Outpost. Those looking to expand their experience can take on contracts from the game’s major factions (CyberAcme, NuCaloric, Traxus, MIDA, and Arachne) to earn rewards and unlock items.
Progress from the Server Slam will not carry over to the full launch, as Bungie confirmed that all event data is exclusive to the event. However, participants will receive weapons, cosmetics, and a special emblem commemorating their involvement from the very beginning when the game officially launches this March 5, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC on Steam.
Sources:
Marathon Runner Shells Overview
