The gaming community has been talking over Bungie’s upcoming title, Marathon. This fresh extraction shooter aims to shake up a genre many feel has become stale. With years of hard work behind it, the team is ready to reveal what sets this game apart from its competitors. Here’s a look at everything we know regarding the release date, gameplay features, and information on the closed alpha.
What is Marathon?
Marathon is a first-person shooter centered around an extraction model. Players will gear up, enter diverse maps, and engage in fierce battles against other players and AI adversaries. The main objective? Survive long enough to complete tasks and loot items while avoiding death—because failing means losing everything you’ve gathered.
This title promises a more arcade-like feel than traditional milsim shooters known for their intense realism. Expect lively movement mechanics and powerful abilities that give Marathon its distinctive flair.
When is Marathon Coming Out?
The official release date for Marathon has been set for September 23, 2025. Pricing details are still being finalized, and it’s unclear whether it will be free to play.
When is the Marathon Alpha?
Bungie announced that the first closed alpha for Marathon starts on April 23, 2025. Initially invite-only, select users will receive passes before being able to invite two friends using priority codes.
If you’re keen on participating in the alpha testing phase, hop onto the Marathon Discord server, where you’ll need to complete a survey to gain access.
Is Marathon Coming to Console?
A departure from many extraction shooters typically confined to PC platforms, Marathon will also launch on Xbox and PlayStation. This was confirmed ahead of its grand reveal on April 12.
What Does Marathon Gameplay Look Like?
Marathon follows typical extraction shooter conventions. Players load out with weapons and gear like upgrades and shields before selecting their ‘Runner’—a cybernetic character with distinct skills—and then choose their map.
Your mission begins with exploration and combat against opponents and environmental dangers. Completing tasks successfully could lead you toward an exit, but beware; survival remains your top priority throughout the match.
