Bungie has announced a new release window for its upcoming extraction shooter, Marathon, with the game set to launch in March 2026 for PS5 and PC. The title will carry a price tag of $39.99 in the US, €39.99 in Europe, and £34.99 in the UK. This information was revealed in a recent ViDoc released by the studio, which also highlighted significant changes made since the game’s initial delay earlier this year.
Since the delay, Bungie has engaged in private playtesting and collected feedback, leading to several key updates. Among these changes is the introduction of proximity chat, a feature that enhances player collaboration in real time. Additionally, a new character type named Rook has been added. This solo scavenger character is designed for players who wish to enter matches in progress, equipped with minimal gear but with the potential for efficient scavenging. The developers have also implemented a Solo Runner queue, allowing distinct playstyles to flourish within the game. Finally, improvements in visual fidelity have been made, including the addition of dead runner bodies that persist in the environment, contributing to a darker, more immersive sci-fi aesthetic.
The announcement comes on the heels of a challenging period for Bungie, particularly following the mixed reception of their latest expansion for Destiny 2, titled The Edge of Fate. The studio admitted to having made missteps regarding player expectations and engagement with recent content. This admission is particularly relevant as the company has faced criticism and layoffs over the past year, adding further pressure to deliver a successful next title in their portfolio.
The improvements to Marathon can be seen as a response to the successes of other games in the extraction shooter genre, such as Arc Raiders. Proximity chat, in particular, has been identified as a vital feature that enhances social interaction in these types of games, allowing players to strategize and collaborate on the fly. The introduction of a solo queue also caters to players who prefer a more independent play experience, thereby expanding the game’s appeal.
Despite the positive changes, Marathon still faces the challenge of overcoming the negative impressions left by its prior announcement and subsequent public testing, which prompted Bungie to take a step back. The backlash was significant enough that the studio had to recalibrate its approach, avoiding a repeat of the issues experienced with the ill-fated Concord project.
As Bungie gears up for the future with Marathon, the game’s new features and refined visuals will be crucial for its success in a competitive market. With the extraction shooter genre continuing to grow, Bungie’s ability to innovate and adapt will determine how well Marathon resonates with both veterans of the genre and newcomers. The coming months will be pivotal as the studio works to restore confidence among its player base while preparing for the game’s eventual release.
