Bungie recently lifted the curtain on their new sci-fi game, Marathon, a first-person shooter that focuses on team-based strategy and thrilling extractions. During their latest showcase, they not only revealed fresh gameplay footage but also shared a sleek cinematic short that immerses viewers into the Marathon universe. Fans of the genre won’t have to wait too long either—Marathon lands on Xbox Series X|S on September 23, 2025.
Dive Into the Game
Stepping into Marathon, you take on the role of a Runner. These are no ordinary mercenaries; they’ve swapped out their human traits for cybernetic enhancements, offering a myriad of unique abilities. Tailor your Runner to suit your style, whether you prefer going in with guns blazing or employing a more strategic approach. Customize your arsenal at the start with various implants and weapons, then upgrade with items you gather during missions.
You won’t be going it alone unless you want the challenge. Assemble a team of up to three players to enter a zone with the aim of looting and escaping unscathed. Facing threats from AI security and rival teams, the danger is omnipresent. Successfully extract, and the spoils remain yours for future runs. For those who crave a solo endeavor, taking on teams alone and grabbing all the loot adds an extra layer of risk and reward.
Borrowing from their extensive history with hit games like Halo and the ongoing Destiny 2, Bungie infuses Marathon with its legendary FPS expertise. The game aims to blend an engaging shooter experience with ever-evolving seasonal content, providing endless mysteries to uncover in the universe of Tau Ceti IV and the mysterious Marathon ship.
Welcome to the Universe
Viewers also got a taste of the world of Tau Ceti IV through a cinematic short. Directed by the talented Alberto Mielgo, known for his work on "Love, Death & Robots," the short lifts the veil on the cutthroat environment where Runners operate. It also introduces several characters you can play as within this desolate universe. If you’re intrigued, you definitely should check out the short.
Marathon is gearing up for its September release on the Xbox Series X|S. In the meantime, fans can wishlist it starting now. To stay in the loop with the latest updates and secure a spot in the Closed Alpha Test this April, joining the official Marathon community on Discord is your best bet.
An Epic Journey
For the creators behind iconic titles such as Halo and Destiny, Bungie brings Marathon—a thrilling team-based FPS extraction shooter bred from their esteemed gaming pedigree. Navigate the desolate world of Tau Ceti IV by choosing a Runner, each blessed with unique abilities to navigate rival teams and security forces for valuable weapons and upgrades.
Coordinate with your crew of three and tackle the diverse challenges laid before you. Success is rewarded as you hold onto your loot, valuable for future runs in Tau Ceti’s hazardous settings, or challenge your skills aboard the derelict Marathon ship, suspended ominously above.
The thrill of being a Runner rests in selecting from an array of cybernetic mercenaries. Customize your play style, experiment every run, and return more powerful. From thriving colonies turned battle zones to rival factions vying for supremacy, Tau Ceti IV is a realm where Runners are key to unlocking fortunes.
Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, Bungie’s hallmark in first-person gameplay ensures a gratifying experience at all levels. With multiple terrains, players start with easier maps and ramp up to more daring zones, all while engaging in the competitive Ranked mode in the debut season.
Fair play is central to Bungie’s ethos. By investing in robust anti-cheat measures and dedicated server support, they aim to keep the competitive spirit alive. Players will find satisfaction in skill-building, ensuring the integrity of every match is maintained.
