Bungie has served up our first proper look at Marathon's big Symbiosis update, which is set to go live on December 8 with a permanent PvE mode, plus an all-new Team Deathmatch mode and a social space called Limbo.
Symbiosis represents the start of "the evolution of Marathon," Bungie said, with "a plethora of updates and changes" to the game. First and foremost is the addition of Marathon's PvE mode, now permanent and with a new name, Expedition, that's described in the teaser as a "co-op PvE roguelite." Details beyond that haven't been revealed just yet, but Bungie called it "phase one" of the team's PvE plan, suggesting that it remains a work in progress.
Also notable in Symbiosis is the addition of Limbo, a "social space" where players can hang out without getting aired out (although there does appear to be a little area set aside for friendly shootin'), and its firing range, a handy way to test the game's guns without having to venture into its less friendly locales.
Speaking of which, the Perimeter map is being expanded with new points of interest and tunnels, and a new sword-wielding runner shell, Bishop, will debut with the update. For those who prefer the PvP life, the update will also kick off a beta for Marathon's Team Deathmatch mode.
Overall, Symbiosis looks to be a pretty big deal, and while today's tease is light on detail, the early reaction among players on Reddit and social media seems quite positive. Bishop is already racking up fans:
BISHOP has the power of God and Anime on their side.from r/Marathon
One other bit of good news: The rollout of Symbiosis on December 8 will also mark the start of an "open play week," during which the game will be fully free to play, including the new modes and content. If you dig it and decide to stick around (ie., buy the game), any progress and items earned will carry over.
