Loot is the core of every run in Marathon. Players constantly search the map for valuable items while trying to survive encounters with enemy Runners and hostile AI. During exploration, you may discover locked containers inside special loot rooms. These containers require Lockbox Keys to open.
Lockbox Keys are valuable items that unlock rooms filled with multiple loot boxes. If you manage to reach one of these locations with a key, you can walk away with rare salvage, credits, and other valuable items. However, these areas often attract other players, which makes them risky but rewarding.
What Are Lockbox Keys in Marathon
Lockbox Keys are special items used to open locked containers inside loot rooms. These rooms typically contain several lockboxes that each require a key.
Players can find a mix of rewards inside these containers, including:
- Salvage materials
- Credits
- Crafting resources
- Consumables
- Rare gear items
The loot is randomized, so every run offers different rewards. Even if you do not get the best items, these rooms usually provide enough value to make the risk worthwhile.
How to Get Lockbox Keys in Marathon
There are two main ways to obtain Lockbox Keys during your runs.
1. Random Container Drops
Lockbox Keys can occasionally appear inside containers or as loose items on the map. However, the spawn rate is low, and there is no reliable method to increase it.
Players sometimes find keys in large compounds or heavily explored buildings. Because the keys are small, they can be easy to overlook while looting.
2. Purchase from the Armory
The more reliable method involves faction upgrades.
After unlocking the Cyac faction and completing its introductory contract, you gain access to faction upgrades. One important upgrade is Locksmith, which allows you to purchase Lockbox Keys from the faction Armory.
Requirements for this upgrade include:
- Cyac faction Rank 4 or higher
- Credits and salvage materials
Once unlocked, you can buy keys before starting a run. This makes it easier to plan loot routes and target Lockbox rooms.
What Happens If You Die With a Lockbox Key in Marathon
Marathon currently does not have a secure inventory slot.
If you die during a run, you lose everything in your backpack, including the Lockbox Key. Because of this risk, players should avoid unnecessary fights when carrying one.
Many experienced players choose stealth and careful movement when heading toward lockbox locations.
Where to Use Lockbox Keys in Marathon
Lockbox Keys are used inside special loot rooms scattered across Marathon maps.
You can identify these rooms by red flares rising from rooftops or nearby structures. These flares signal the presence of lockbox caches inside the building.
Once inside the room, you will find several locked containers. Each one requires a key to open. Typical lockbox locations appear in major compounds and important buildings across maps like:
Perimeter Map
Possible lockbox areas include:
- The central blue building near Station
- Large buildings near North Relay
- The destroyed section of the South Relay structure
Dire Marsh Map
Players have reported lockboxes inside the central building at Quarantine, where loot rooms sometimes spawn.
Because these locations change between matches, players should always watch for the red flare signal.
Is It Worth Using Lockbox Keys
Yes. Lockbox rooms often contain multiple high-value items in a single location. Even if you only open a few containers, the rewards can cover the cost of the key and provide extra salvage for crafting or upgrades.
For players who plan their runs carefully, these rooms can become one of the most profitable loot opportunities in Marathon.
If you manage your keys wisely and avoid unnecessary fights, Lockbox rooms can significantly boost your loot and help you progress faster in Marathon. Play Now!
