Marathon's ranked mode launches soon
, fundamentally changing how Runners approach the field. Holotags now set your extraction score target — die with one and you lose both gear AND rank points.
Shell Selection for Ranked Success
For new ranked players, start with
Vandal
— it earns A-tier ratings in both solo and squad play. Vandal's Double Jump and forgiving design make it the best learning shell before specializing.
Solo Ranked Powerhouses
Thief
dominates solo ranked with S-tier rating. Built for hitting Holotag targets and extracting safely, Thief's Drone ability and survival-focused design excel when rank points are on the line.
Assassin
offers high risk/reward as a Holotag theft specialist but requires advanced skills.
Squad Ranked Meta
Destroyer
and
Triage
both earn S-tier squad ratings. Destroyer forces Holotag kills with maximum damage output, while Triage enables consistent squad extractions.
Recon
provides A-tier squad support — knowing where rival Holotag carriers are becomes invaluable when rank points matter.
Weapon Priorities for Ranked
The
M77 Assault Rifle with Barrel Mod
extends range to Long — the highest-impact ranked configuration.
Rook Pistol should be avoided in ranked
due to poor performance metrics.
Critical Mod Strategy
Always prioritize higher rarity
Chip Mods
in ranked for stronger baseline performance.
Grip Mod
provides high value on V75 Scar and SMGs.
Magazine Mod
becomes crucial on SMGs and shotguns for sustained firefights.
Extraction vs Combat Focus
Ranked rewards consistent extraction over aggressive play. Shells like Thief that avoid fights by design often outperform high-combat shells when rank preservation matters. Plan your Holotag targets carefully — one death costs both immediate gear and long-term progression.