Marathon will test out a new experimental game mode which forces players to use free sponsored kits
Marathon is introducing a new experimental game mode called “Dire Marsh Sponsored” (also referred to as “Free Kit Frenzy Dire Marsh Sponsored”) launching on April 15 and running through April 29. The mode addresses gear disparity in the extraction shooter by forcing all players to start with only basic white-tier free sponsored kits, eliminating the initial advantage that fully upgraded players typically enjoy.
In this experimental queue, players must scavenge for better equipment scattered across the map rather than entering matches with pre-equipped upgraded gear. According to game director Joe Ziegler, the mode is designed to test how the game plays with low fixed-set gear conditions and explore “zero to hero” progression mechanics where players start from minimal equipment. This provides an opportunity to understand the game’s early gear ecosystem and gather data on how newer players experience combat when the playing field is level.
The two-week experimental period allows Bungie to collect player feedback on alternative gear progression systems. In related news, the developer has confirmed that the duos mode, which was previously tested in Marathon, will become a permanent feature in season two, with the team “diligently working” on its full implementation.