Gold Keys, also called Prestige Keys, are some of the most valuable keys you can get in Marathon because they open high-tier locked rooms. They are also required for the Locksmith challenge, where you must extract while carrying a Superior or Prestige Key Template. In this guide, we will tell you how to get Gold Keys.
How to Exfiltrate with a Superior or Prestige Key Template
To complete the Locksmith challenge, you need to extract while carrying a Superior or Prestige Key Template. Start by opening the Factions menu and go to the first faction. This faction gives you key upgrades as you level it up.
- At Level 4, you unlock Lockbox Keys
- At Level 16, you unlock Deluxe Key Templates
- At Level 28, you unlock the Superior Key Template
After unlocking the Superior Key Template, go to the shop. The first time you claim one of these keys, it is free. After that, you will need to buy more with credits. Each key costs 18,000 credits.
Random Drops From Activities
If you have not unlocked the faction upgrade, you can get Superior or gold keys as random drops from activities during matches. Keep watching for these events during a match:
- Blue icons for Rift Anomalies
- Pink icon for Wardens
- Question mark icons for special events
Sometimes, secure resource boxes can give a gold key, but that is very rare. These usually give the best chance at getting high-value key drops.
Defeating UESC Commander
You can also find a Prestige Key in Marathon on the Perimeter map by defeating a UESC Commander. These enemies have a chance to drop the key when defeated, so you may need to fight a few before one appears. If you get lucky and the key drops, save it for the Cryo Archive, which is one of the endgame areas where the Prestige Key is used to unlock valuable loot.
