Bungie's 'Marathon' Extraction Shooter Back in Action

Bungie's Marathon: A Sci-Fi Extraction Shooter Returns After a Year of Silence

After a year of radio silence, Bungie's upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Marathon, finally received a much-anticipated update from its Game Director, Joe Ziegler. Initially unveiled at the May 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game reignited interest in Bungie's pre-Halo legacy and captured the attention of a new generation of gamers. However, the initial announcement was followed by a prolonged period without updates.

Ziegler's update confirmed the game's continued development, stating that Marathon is "on track" and undergoing significant revisions based on extensive player testing. While gameplay footage remained elusive, he revealed hints of a class-based system featuring customizable "Runners," each with unique abilities. He showcased two potential Runners, "Thief" and "Stealth," suggesting their names offer clues to their respective gameplay styles.

Planned for 2025, expanded playtests will offer more players a chance to experience Marathon. Ziegler encouraged fans to wishlist the game on Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation to signal their interest and facilitate future communication regarding updates.

A Fresh Take on a Classic

Marathon is a reimagining of Bungie's original 1990s trilogy, marking a significant departure from the Destiny franchise after over a decade. While not a direct sequel, it's set within the same universe, offering familiar elements for longtime fans while remaining accessible to newcomers. The game is set on Tau Ceti IV, where players, as Runners, compete for survival, wealth, and glory by scavenging alien artifacts. Players can team up or go solo, but be warned: competition from rival crews and perilous extractions are always a threat.

Originally conceived as a purely PvP-focused experience without a single-player campaign, Ziegler hinted at potential additions to modernize the game and introduce a new narrative arc. Cross-play and cross-save functionality will be available across PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Challenges Faced During Development

The development of Marathon faced setbacks, including the reported dismissal of the original project lead, Chris Barrett, and subsequent workforce reductions at Bungie. These events undoubtedly impacted the development timeline, contributing to the extended silence surrounding the project.

Despite the challenges, the promise of expanded playtests in 2025 offers a glimmer of hope for eager fans. While a release date remains undisclosed, the recent update suggests that development is progressing, albeit cautiously.