Bungie is set to test experimental duos mode in Marathon starting this Wednesday

Specifically on the Perimeter map. The trial is expected to last about two weeks, though the developers may adjust the timing or pull the mode early depending on player feedback.

The addition of a duos queue follows consistent requests from the community since the game's server slam in February. Currently, Marathon supports solo play against other solos or groups of three facing off against other squads. This new mode aims to provide a better experience for those who want to play with exactly one friend without the disadvantage of being outnumbered by three-person teams.

While the update seems simple, Bungie is treating it as a significant test of the game's balance. Changing the size of squads impacts how players move across the maps and how they interact with each other. There are also questions regarding how loot density and supply counts might need to be adjusted for smaller groups.

Another major consideration is matchmaking efficiency. Marathon already splits its players into several different queues based on group size and map selection. Adding a duos option creates even more pools, which could lead to longer wait times. This two-week test will help Bungie determine if the player base is large enough to support the extra queue without hurting the overall experience.

Game director Joe Ziegler warned players on X that because this is a test, they should expect some technical issues. He noted that "some things will be a bit jank" and emphasized that the team intends to use this period to gather data for future versions of the mode.