Bungie’s latest Marathon update has delivered an immediate boost in player activity following the release of Update 1.1.5, which introduces the game’s first experimental PvE mode, Vault Breaker.
Available for a limited two-week period, the new mode allows players to explore the challenging Cryo Archive without competing against other player squads, offering a different take on Marathon’s extraction shooter formula.
According to SteamDB, Marathon’s concurrent Steam player count climbed to more than 14,800 players shortly after the update launched—roughly three times higher than the game’s activity during the previous week. While the numbers remain modest compared to the biggest multiplayer titles on Steam, the spike marks Marathon’s strongest player surge since participation declined following its June free weekend.
Vault Breaker introduces a fresh progression system
Unlike Marathon’s standard extraction gameplay, Vault Breaker focuses on collecting Vault Data rather than extracting valuable loot. Players use the resource to unlock permanent upgrades for their starting equipment or purchase gear that can later be taken into traditional PvPvE matches, adding roguelite-inspired progression to Bungie’s shooter.
The update also expands the Cradle progression system by allowing fully upgraded Cradles to be evolved, resetting their progress in exchange for a higher energy limit that enables additional upgrades.
Beyond gameplay additions, Bungie has introduced new voice moderation and reporting tools aimed at reducing in-game toxicity and improving the multiplayer experience.
The launch of Vault Breaker suggests Bungie is willing to test new gameplay ideas as it refines Marathon following release. The PvE-focused mode gives players an opportunity to experience the game’s world, puzzles, and combat without the constant pressure of rival squads.
Whether Vault Breaker becomes a permanent feature remains unclear, but its early impact on player numbers indicates there is significant interest in alternative ways to experience Marathon beyond its traditional extraction gameplay.
