Bungie Announces March Release for ‘Marathon’ Game
Bungie has officially announced the release date for its upcoming title, Marathon. Scheduled for launch on March 5, the game will be available for $39.99 on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. This new installment marks Bungie’s first original release since Destiny 2, which debuted in 2017.
Overview of Marathon
Set in the futuristic year of 2850, Marathon introduces players to a world where they operate as Runners. These players form three-person squads, infiltrating hostile environments to gather loot while battling both AI adversaries and competing teams. Unlike the original Marathon from 1994, this version emphasizes a Player versus Player versus Environment (PvPvE) approach as an extraction shooter.
Development History
Initially scheduled for release in September 2023, Marathon faced a delay due to mixed feedback from an alpha playtest conducted in June. Players criticized the game for its complicated user interface, lackluster gunplay, and a slower pace compared to existing extraction shooters. Bungie announced that this delay would provide the opportunity to refine core systems before launching.
Controversies and Challenges
In addition to the delay, Marathon encountered a plagiarism controversy when an independent artist pointed out similarities between in-game art assets and her work. Bungie acknowledged this issue, and by December, an agreement was reached between the artist, the studio, and publisher Sony.
Market Position
The stakes are high for Marathon and its publisher, Sony. With a history of recent multiplayer challenges, including the underperformance of Concord, there is much riding on this launch. Marathon enters a competitive landscape that has already seen success with similar titles like Arc Raiders.
Key Information
- Release Date: March 5, 2024
- Price: $39.99
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PC
- Setting: Year 2850
- Gameplay Type: PvPvE extraction shooter
- Original Release Delayed: From September 2023
As gamers worldwide anticipate the launch, the question remains: can Marathon find its footing in a saturated market? With its innovative mechanics and Bungie’s legacy, players will soon discover if this title can stand out.
