- Bungie’s Marathon will release on September 23, 2025.
- The game is a sci-fi extraction shooter set on the planet Tau Ceti IV.
- Platforms include PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC; no support for older consoles or Nintendo Switch.
- A closed alpha test starts April 23, exclusively in North America.
- Marathon emphasizes player-driven storytelling and multiplayer PvP gameplay.
Bungie’s Marathon Returns: Release Date and Platforms
Bungie, the renowned developer behind the Halo and Destiny franchises, is bringing back its long-dormant sci-fi shooter series, Marathon. The new iteration of the game is set to release on September 23, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This marks a generational leap for Bungie, as the game will not support older consoles like the PS4 or Xbox One, nor will it be available on the Nintendo Switch.
What is Marathon?
Originally launched in the 1990s as a trilogy of first-person shooters for Mac, Marathon was a precursor to Bungie’s later successes. The original games featured a mix of sci-fi storytelling and action-packed gameplay, set in a universe where humanity faced threats from alien races and rogue artificial intelligence. The upcoming Marathon reimagines the series as a team-based extraction shooter, a genre that has gained popularity in recent years.
Gameplay Overview
In Marathon, players take on the role of “Runners,” exploring the lost human colony on the planet Tau Ceti IV. The primary objective is to locate valuable loot and extract it successfully while fending off rival players and AI-controlled enemies. The game emphasizes high-stakes decision-making, as dying during a mission means losing all collected loot, which can then be claimed by other players.
Marathon will feature different Runner classes, each with unique abilities. For example, the stealth-focused Void class can use active camouflage to avoid detection. The game also incorporates player-driven storytelling, where player actions can unlock new areas and influence the game world, adding a layer of depth to the multiplayer PvP experience.
Alpha Test Details
Players eager to get an early look at Marathon can participate in a closed alpha test starting on April 23, 2023. The test will be available exclusively in North America, and interested players can sign up via the official Marathon Discord channel. This alpha phase will allow Bungie to gather feedback and fine-tune the game ahead of its full release.
Platforms and Availability
Despite being owned by PlayStation, Bungie has confirmed that Marathon will launch simultaneously on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. This aligns with Bungie’s commitment to multi-platform releases, even after its acquisition by Sony. However, the game will not be available on older-generation consoles like the PS4 or Xbox One, nor is there any mention of support for the Nintendo Switch or its rumored successor, the Switch 2.
Pricing and Monetization
While Bungie has not officially announced the price of Marathon, the developer has hinted that it will not be a “full-priced title,” suggesting a price point below the standard $70 for new games. Speculation points to a range of $40–$50, though this could include microtransactions to support the live-service model.
Connection to the Original Trilogy
Fans of the original Marathon games will find familiar elements in the new title. The setting, Tau Ceti IV, was home to a human colony of 30,000 people in the original series. This colony was destroyed by an alien race called the Pfhor, who were aided by a rogue AI named Durandal. While the new Marathon is not a direct sequel, it aims to remain faithful to the lore and universe of the original trilogy.
Bungie has also released a cinematic trailer, providing a glimpse into the mysterious world of Marathon. The trailer hints at the challenges players will face, including hostile environments, rival Runners, and cryptic story elements tied to the fate of the Tau Ceti IV colony.
What Sets Marathon Apart?
Marathon’s extraction shooter mechanics differentiate it from traditional looter shooters like Borderlands or The Division. The game’s focus on high-risk, high-reward gameplay, combined with its player-driven storytelling, sets it apart in the crowded multiplayer shooter market. Additionally, Bungie’s track record with sci-fi shooters like Halo and Destiny positions Marathon as a highly anticipated title for fans of the genre.
Marathon represents a bold return to Bungie’s roots, reimagining a classic franchise for modern audiences. With its September 23 release date, multi-platform availability, and innovative gameplay mechanics, the game is poised to make a significant impact in the gaming world. Players can look forward to exploring the mysteries of Tau Ceti IV and shaping the game’s narrative through their actions.