“‘Marathon’ Avoids Launch Clash with ‘ARC Raiders’”
Bungie’s upcoming extraction shooter, “Marathon,” is set to release on March 5, 2024. This date creates a slight conflict, as it coincides with the anticipated launch of the “Destiny 2” update, “Shadow and Order,” which is expected on March 3. Sources suggest that Bungie is considering delaying the “Destiny 2” update to avoid a clash.
Relief for Marathon: No Major Competition in March
Despite concerns about potential competition from the game “ARC Raiders,” Bungie’s recent roadmap announcement indicates that March will have no significant updates or expansions for ARC Raiders. February will bring a larger update, titled “Shrouded Sky,” which includes a new map condition, ARC threat, player projects, raider deck, expedition window, and map updates. However, March will only offer a new condition, the ARC threat, a project, and a minor “scrappy update.”
Potential Impact of ARC Raiders
- The extraction genre is gaining popularity, potentially benefiting “Marathon.”
- Player interest may shift from “ARC Raiders” to “Marathon” if players seek new experiences.
- However, “ARC Raiders” has demonstrated impressive player retention, which could hinder “Marathon’s” launch success.
Many players may be hesitant to invest $40 in a new extraction game if they remain engaged with “ARC Raiders.” Additionally, “Marathon” is designed for more hardcore players, which could complicate the transition for casual fans of “ARC Raiders.”
Market Position and Anticipation
While “Marathon” is expected to draw interest, it is unlikely to match the peak player counts seen by “ARC Raiders.” Nevertheless, initial reactions suggest it won’t suffer a failure similar to other recent releases like “Concord.” On preorder day, “Marathon” ranked as the fourth highest-earning game on Steam, signaling strong anticipation.
Future Roadmap and Player Engagement
The timing for the release of “Marathon’s” roadmap remains uncertain, as it may be shared post-launch. This roadmap will likely detail the planned seasonal cadence and new features scheduled for introduction throughout the year. The gaming community eagerly awaits more information, particularly regarding “Marathon’s” unique offerings within the extraction genre.
