Marathon, Bungie’s Extraction Shooter, Claimed to be \"On Track\" After Yearlong Radio Silence

Bungie's highly anticipated sci-fi extraction shooter, Marathon, finally breaks its year-long silence with a developer update. Initially revealed at the May 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has been shrouded in mystery until now.

Marathon: A New Era for Bungie

Game Director Joe Ziegler confirmed the game's continued development, stating it's "on track" despite significant internal changes and extensive player testing. While gameplay footage remains elusive, Ziegler hinted at a class-based system featuring customizable "Runners," with two examples shown: "Thief" and "Stealth." Their names, he suggested, offer clues to their gameplay styles.

The update brought exciting news for players: expanded playtests are planned for 2025, offering a chance for broader community involvement. Ziegler urged fans to wishlist the game on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation to show their interest and ensure updates reach them.

A Spiritual Successor, Not a Direct Sequel

Marathon reimagines Bungie's classic 1990s trilogy, set on the harsh landscape of Tau Ceti IV. It's a PvP-focused extraction shooter where players, as Runners, compete for valuable alien artifacts. While teamwork is an option, solo play is also possible, adding a layer of strategic risk and reward. The game promises player-driven narratives interwoven with the overarching story.

Challenges Faced During Development

The update comes after a period of significant change at Bungie. The departure of original project lead Chris Barrett, following allegations of misconduct, and substantial layoffs impacting approximately 17% of the studio's workforce, undoubtedly impacted development. Despite these setbacks, Ziegler's update suggests that the team is pushing forward with a renewed focus.

Marathon is confirmed for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with cross-play and cross-save functionality. While a release date remains unannounced, the promise of extensive playtests in 2025 offers a glimmer of hope for eager fans.