Bungie announced it will launch Vault Breaker, a new player-versus-environment (PvE) mode for its game Marathon, on July 21, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The mode will take place within the Cryo Archive map and supports solo, duo, and trio playstyles [1, 2, 3].
Players must have a special Sponsored Kit to queue for Vault Breaker matches. Unlike usual loot-based modes, any gear or items found during gameplay will not carry over when players exit, with the sole exception of a new currency called Vault Data [1, 3]. Bungie explained, "Vault Breaker requires a special Sponsored Kit to queue up, and any gear or items you find stay behind when you exfil. The exception to this is Vault Data. This new currency is found within vaults, and when extracted, can be exchanged for upgrades to your Vault Breaker Sponsored Kits as well as gear that can be used in other modes. This lets you experience Cryo Archive without flooding the economy with low-risk, high-power Cryo loot" [1].
The Vault Breaker mode will include a progression system that allows players to grow in power between vault runs, offering a sense of advancement over time [1, 2, 3]. Alongside its release, Bungie will introduce the Cradle Evolution system, enabling players to reset their Cradle progression and earn new rewards [1, 2].
Marathon has faced challenges with player retention and attracting new users. To address this, Bungie added PvE content and a free trial at the start of Season 2 [1]. A Kotaku writer called Vault Breaker "a brilliant way to add some variety to Marathon and bring in more players who might be put off by the PVP-only action and sweaty extraction shooter gameplay" [2]. PC Gamer noted that Vault Breaker “eschews one of the most fundamental aspects of extraction shooters: Any gear or items you find in the mode will be left behind when you leave. The only thing you'll take with you Vault Data” [3].
Season 3 of Marathon will start on September 22, 2026. It will feature major new content, including a revamp of the starting map Perimeter [1, 2].
