Tag: Bungie

  • Destiny 3 Petition Hits 300K Signatures After Bungie Update

    Destiny 3 Petition Hits 300K Signatures After Bungie Update

    Key Takeaway

    – Bungie will end live-service updates for Destiny 2 on June 9, 2026, with the “Moment of Triumph” patch adding permanent challenges and community-requested features.
    – Servers remain online in maintenance mode, but no future story, expansions, or seasons will be released.
    – A Change.org petition with over 319,000 signatures is urging Sony to greenlight a Destiny 3.
    – A global log-in event is planned for June 9 to demonstrate player demand for the franchise.
    – Bungie’s focus is on Marathon, but Destiny 2 still commands 250% of Marathon’s average player count on Steam.

    Bungies Big Announcement Shocks Veterans

    Bungie’s big announcement that the studio will end live-service content updates and expansions for Destiny 2 with its final “Moment of Triumph” patch on June 9, 2026, has left long-time veterans of the series, who have enjoyed the game for almost a decade, shocked. The upcoming Moment of Triumph update will add permanent challenges, new loot, and a celebratory send-off before Bungie moves on to its new roster of projects. The update pretty much adds every community-requested feature packaged into one final update, which makes the send-off even more bittersweet.

    Servers Stay On, But Content Ends

    The studio made it clear that it won’t be sunsetting the servers. Destiny 2’s servers will stay online in maintenance mode, akin to the original Destiny. The Final Shape, its final content expansion that wrapped up Destiny 2’s story, was received particularly well among fans but proved to be a financial flop, as Sony reported a combined impairment loss of $565 million in “Bungie assets.” It seems Sony has waved the flag to end Destiny 2, as Bungie signals the end of an era, meaning no more story drops, expansions, or seasons. But Destiny 2 fans are not happy. The community has banded together faster than a raid boss can be wiped.

    Fans Petition for Destiny 3

    The Destiny 2 community has launched a Change.org petition, pleading with publisher Sony and developer Bungie to greenlight Destiny 3. Furthermore, the community is rallying all gamers who’ve played Destiny 2 at some point in time for a global log-in event on the same day the “Moment of Triumph” patch goes live. The petition went live a few days ago and has already obtained over 319,000 verified signatures. It is filled to the brim with love letters to the Destiny series, with fans reminiscing about their memories in the game.

    Emotional Testimonials From Players

    One petitioner wrote, “This is the only game I have ever loved. Destiny 2 got me through some of the darkest times in my life. This game brought me countless friends and memories. I am incredibly sad about this and haven’t even figured out how to put the right words together. I just don’t want Destiny 2 to die.” Another veteran of the series mentioned his tenure as a Destiny 2 Guardian, stating: “My greatest gaming experiences came from playing raids, dungeons, and campaigns, irreplaceable moments, and just pure fun with my girlfriend. I was 19 years old when I started Destiny; I’m now 29.”

    Global Log-In Event Planned

    The organized log-in push requests that all present and former Destiny guardians, whether casual players or longtime hardcore raiders, hop into the game simultaneously on June 9 for the “Moment of Triumph” update. Organizers hope this will send Sony a clear message that fans still want more of Destiny and that Sony Interactive will give Bungie the green light to work on Destiny 3, a project that seems not to have any interest from its parent organization for now. Bungie’s core focus currently remains Marathon, a PvP-focused extraction shooter that released in March 2026 to positive reviews but a less-than-stellar public reception in terms of player counts. For context, Destiny 2 currently commands 250% of Marathon’s average player count on Steam, lending credence to many’s belief that Bungie, and by proxy Sony, would eventually relent and allow Destiny 3 to become reality.

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  • Destiny 2 Finale: $764M Impairment Losses, Bungie Layoffs

    Destiny 2 Finale: $764M Impairment Losses, Bungie Layoffs

    Key Takeaway

    – Destiny 2 will end its live-service era with the last update on June 9, 2026; servers will stay online and the game remains fully playable.
    – The Final Shape concluded Destiny 2’s live-service journey but underperformed financially, leading Bungie to shift focus to new projects while “Destiny” itself continues beyond Destiny 2.
    – The final patch, Destiny 2: The Moment of Triumph, will honor players with love letters, a permanent Pantheon mode, rewards overhaul, QoL tweaks, and opportunities to revisit key destinations.

    Destiny 2 enters its final live-service phase

    In a move that would have surprised fans only a few years ago, Bungie announced on May 21 that after nine years of patches, content updates, expansions, and countless memories, Destiny 2 is slated to receive its last live-service update on June 9, 2026. The news signals a shift toward new projects while keeping the existing game alive for players who still dive into its worlds.

    Final phase clarified by Bungie

    Bungie is effectively signaling to fans that Destiny 2 is entering its final phase as it shifts its focus to new projects currently in active development. However, Bungie isn’t entirely abandoning Destiny as it did with Destiny 1. Servers will remain live, and the game will remain fully playable even after the last live-service update—no server sunsets.

    Financial reception and official statements

    Bungie’s epic conclusion to Destiny 2 via The Final Shape was well received by the community. However, it failed to meet financial expectations, resulting in $764 million in impairment losses. Following this, Bungie recently wrote in a blog post: “While our love for Destiny 2 has not changed, it has become clear that after The Final Shape, we have the time for our shared worlds, and Destiny, to live beyond Destiny 2. We’re proud of Destiny 2, the places it took us, and the legacy it has created. Because of you all, our universe is vast, built on years of shared stories, adventures, and victories. From the Cosmodrome to the Pale Heart to the Lawless Frontier, we have forged life-long memories and friendships with you all.”

    Future focus and chapter naming

    The studio continued, adding that “as our focus turns toward a new beginning for Bungie, we will begin incubating our next games.” The company framed June as the start of a new chapter instead of a sunset. The final patch has been named Destiny 2: The Moment of Triumph, and it’s being presented as a memorable send-off for the game, featuring “a collection of love letters to players across all activity types.”

    What players can expect next

    Bungie told Destiny 2 veterans to expect a permanent Pantheon mode with new bosses, an overhauled list of rewards, quality-of-life tweaks, and ample ways to revisit some of their favorite destinations and regions in the game. On June 9, servers will remain online, and players will continue to earn weekly rewards for a while. Furthermore, the Eververse store will stay open, but Destiny 2’s live-service era has officially come to an end.

    Availability and access after the update

    The ongoing availability ensures that fans can continue to explore, complete weekly goals, and enjoy a sense of closure without major disruptions. The emphasis remains on preserving the experiences that have defined the game for nearly a decade, while welcoming a broader future for Bungie’s creative output.

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  • Marathon Introduces Duo Trial, Tech Fixes Ahead of Ranked Mode

    Marathon Introduces Duo Trial, Tech Fixes Ahead of Ranked Mode

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cryo Archive Launch: The new endgame area for Marathon will go live on March 20, offering a weekend-only PvPvE challenge aboard the UESC Marathon ship.

    2. Gameplay Features: The area includes a fast-paced, raid-style experience with Security Clearance progression, contested exfiltration points, and seven Vaults filled with valuable loot.

    3. Participation Requirements: Players need to reach Runner Level 25, unlock all six factions, and have a minimum loadout value of 5,000 credits to join Cryo Archive.

    4. Team Dynamics: Designed for teams of three, players can join with friends, use solo queue options, or connect via Bungie’s Marathon community channels, with a Security Clearance system regulating access during gameplay.

    5. Unique Contracts and Future Updates: Seven unique contracts will be available during the mode’s live period, with rewards for completion, and ongoing updates, including a Ranked Mode and more activities, are planned based on player feedback.

    Bungie has announced the launch of Cryo Archive, the first endgame area for Marathon, set to go live on Friday, March 20. This new activity will be a weekend-only PvPvE challenge taking place aboard the abandoned UESC Marathon ship.

    Overview of Cryo Archive

    In the detailed overview of Cryo Archive, Bungie explains that the area is a fast-paced, raid-style experience focused on Security Clearance progression, locked systems, contested exfiltration points, and seven Vaults filled with some of the game’s most sought-after loot. The new zone features six connected wings that are accessible via a central hub, crafted to provide a significant challenge that requires players to make several attempts to fully grasp and conquer it.

    Requirements to Join

    To participate in Cryo Archive, players must achieve Runner Level 25, unlock all six factions through liaison contracts, and have a minimum loadout value of 5,000 credits. Bungie mentions that eligible players will get a one-time Sponsored Kit designed to help them during their initial forays into the zone.

    Team Play and Security Clearance

    Cryo Archive is designed for teams of three players. Gamers can join with friends, use a solo queue with fill options, or connect with others via Bungie’s Marathon community channels. The activity implements a Security Clearance system that regulates access to doors, supply rooms, and exfiltration points during gameplay. Additionally, the zone features seven Vaults, each requiring its own access prerequisites and Vault Key. Players have the chance to discover Vault Keys in planet-side areas, from higher-risk challenges, or by defeating rival crews.

    Unique Contracts and Ongoing Updates

    The official announcement also highlights that Cryo Archive includes a selection of seven unique contracts available in CyberAcme while the mode is live. Completing these contracts can reward players with high-rarity items, and the Codex progression related to Cryo Archive will carry over from week to week.

    Screenshots reveal that Bungie is trialing an Experimental Duo Queue in Perimeter for two weeks starting March 18, along with a server-side fix for an equipment stack-limit problem, which Bungie claims should help reduce anteater errors during gameplay. An additional in-game notice indicates that a Ranked Mode and more Cryo Archive activities are on the horizon.

    Bungie has made significant advancements, reflecting that they are actively responding to player feedback on Marathon.

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  • Marathon Update 1.0.5: Cryo Archive, Downed Exfil, UI Tweaks

    Marathon Update 1.0.5: Cryo Archive, Downed Exfil, UI Tweaks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of Cryo Archive: Update 1.0.5 adds the Cryo Archive zone with exclusive implant perks and mods: Covert Recovery, Freeloader, Panic Response, Punishment, Testament, and Hurricane.

    2. Gameplay Enhancements: Players can activate exfil beacons while downed, and improvements have been made to camera shake, spectator camera timeout, and various Runner class issues.

    3. Contract and Event Improvements: Enhanced clarity in Contracts and Events, including better waypoint icons and fixes for completion blockers affecting certain contracts.

    4. User Interface and Quality of Life Updates: Significant improvements to UI, including better readability of prompts, new Codex challenges, and enhanced inventory management features.

    5. Technical and Weapon Adjustments: Fixes for crashes, weapon recoil adjustments, and changes to weapon mod management, along with audio improvements related to UESC spawn-in animations.

    Marathon update 1.0.5 introduces the fresh Cryo Archive zone, allows players to activate exfil beacons even when downed, and implements numerous changes across various areas like combat, contracts, UI, voice chat, stability, weapons, mods, and audio. Bungie has also linked several new loot items directly to the Cryo Archive, featuring implant perks and mods that can only be obtained there.

    Major Addition: Cryo Archive

    The standout feature of update 1.0.5 is the Cryo Archive, which Bungie confirms has been added to the game. This patch includes three random-rolled implant perks exclusive to implants looted from Cryo Archive: Covert Recovery, Freeloader, and Panic Response. Additionally, three mods exclusive to Cryo Archive have been introduced, named Punishment, Testament, and Hurricane.

    Gameplay and Combat Enhancements

    In the realm of gameplay, players can now activate exfil beacons while they are downed. Bungie has decreased camera shake during incoming melee and knife attacks, extended the post-run spectator camera timeout from 30 seconds to 120 seconds, and toned down the intensity of the Hacked status screen effect. They have also fixed various issues related to finishers, revive timer shaders, and ability activations that were getting out of sync with the server.

    Fixes specific to each Runner class and implant are scattered throughout. The Assassin’s Smoke Puck will now visually change based on the equipped shell style when using Shadow Dive. The Thief’s Pickpocket Drone can no longer loot players during the active exfil animation, and it now correctly updates its on-screen prompt to reflect changes in keybinds or controller mappings. Bungie has also resolved high-speed grapples identified as a network stability concern. Triage received a fix for Battery Overcharge being blocked when heat was near maximum, and Rook is now available at Runner Level 0 without any prior requirements. Two issues related to Graceful Landing V5 have been addressed too.

    Contract and Event Clarity

    The changes in Contracts and Events aim to improve clarity and progression logic. Bungie states that contract and activity waypoint icons now offer better visual clarity. Crews must now deliver both Coordinate Datapads to the cache location before loot is revealed. Additionally, some completion blockers affecting MIDA Order/Chaos 1/1, Traxus Return on Investment 3/5, and Traxus Liaison have been resolved. They also fixed a situation where the contract UI could become desynced among crew members during a run.

    Map-specific adjustments are also part of the update. In Perimeter, intercept dropships in South Relay should no longer clip through the environment, and Overflow tripwires should no longer float mid-air. DCON will now correctly show on the overhead map when required by contract. In Dire Marsh, Bungie fixed the issue of Lockdown-event dropships flying through player space in Algae Ponds, added crew-feed text for pinging Stabilization Device and Anomalous Matter, and addressed a Traxus Liaison issue causing the Commander to despawn. On Outpost, encounters that spawned on the roof of Flight Control will now engage players properly.

    User Interface and Quality of Life

    A significant portion of this update is dedicated to user interface and quality-of-life improvements. Bungie fixed the “Welcome to Tau Ceti” achievement, adjusted Armory tooltips to mainly display purchase costs, and introduced new Codex challenges for Ranked and Cryo Archive. The Codex section also received fixes for flickering inspection text, challenge wording, incorrect challenge tracking, a bug with Destroyer challenge completion, overflow item loss when claiming Seasonal Level rewards, and an odd “Compatible Weapons” string appearing on non-weapon items.

    Changes during runs and in the lobby are extensive as well. The Revive prompt’s readability has been enhanced, some waypoints will now fade while aiming down sights, and exfilling with a Temporal Fragment will yield variable rewards based on the seasonal Runner Level. The lobby now alerts players about overflow items, provides shortcuts to the Loadout menu, clarifies warnings regarding missing Health or Shield consumables, and rectifies an issue that prevented common items from showing up when selecting map regions.

    Social Layer Improvements

    In the UI and social aspects, activity icons pinged from the overhead map should now display waypoints more consistently. Premium Rewards Pass Voucher items will no longer appear in inventory, the Runner Level Up rewards screen should stop showing as blank, and the Runner Connections panel now includes a Ranked tab. Bungie has also fixed the scrolling issue in Runner Connections for players with large friend lists and corrected item rarity for Luxe Palace, Overdrive-TSL, and Cyber Red Runner Shells. Vault stack sizes for consumables, ammo, salvage, and grenades have been increased, and filter tabs for keys and backpacks have been added.

    Voice chat features are also included in the update. Bungie has added Crew Voice Push-To-Talk support for consoles and gamepads during runs, introduced a Tap push-to-talk option, and resolved several interruptions and inconsistencies in voice chat. Furthermore, the patch optimizes sticker and charm placement on a selection of weapons.

    Technical Fixes and Weapon Adjustments

    On the technical front, Bungie has fixed a crash issue related to opening the map in Perimeter and has added AMD Anti-Lag 2 Low Latency to Video Settings.

    Weapon and equipment adjustments include fixes for Ammo Crates placed too close to walls or terrain, Cardio Kick’s HUD icon behavior, Claymores that were not taking splash damage when attached to other objects, and knife cosmetics that would unequip after a failed exfil. Bungie has also resolved the V75 Scar’s Ram-Page Mag ricochet issue, reduced leftward recoil on the WSTR Combat Shotgun and Misriah 2442, and updated the WSTR’s interrupt timing, damage falloff, and aim assist behavior. They also fixed a Longshot gold-mod counter issue.

    Mod and Audio Changes

    The Mods section has also seen a lot of activity. Players can now directly drag and drop to remove weapon mods from their weapons. The Superior rarity string for Endless Runner was corrected. Opportunist now comes with a 3.5-second cooldown. Thermals now properly highlight invisible UESC combatants, ticks, and tick nests, while a generator tooltip was amended. Cloudfeather Chamber now correctly grants its Weight Reduction bonus, and suppressors no longer cause health-display scramble and 2D damage-indicator effects on victims.

    The Audio section is brief, but Bungie made two notable changes: UESC spawn-in animations will now play all associated audio, and the distance at which players can hear others in combat has been reduced.

    Kudos to Bungie for taking the community’s feedback seriously. A little personal aside, “The One About Cryo Archive” might be a reference to Friends, and as a fan of the show, I couldn’t help but see the resemblance.

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  • Steam Reviews Praise Marathon; Reddit Warns of Tough Gameplay

    Steam Reviews Praise Marathon; Reddit Warns of Tough Gameplay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Strong Initial Reception: Bungie’s Marathon has debuted on Steam with a “Very Positive” rating and over 15,000 English reviews, indicating a solid start for the game.

    2. Mixed Player Sentiment: While many players appreciate the gameplay mechanics, there are concerns about the game’s onboarding process and difficulty level, which some find unwelcoming.

    3. Game Design Challenges: Marathon is a “PvPvE survival extraction FPS” that emphasizes difficulty, but players feel it lacks adequate tutorials to help them navigate complex mechanics.

    4. Community Feedback: Discussions on platforms like Reddit reflect both praise for the game’s visuals and gameplay, as well as criticism regarding UI issues and a lack of clarity for new players.

    5. Bungie’s Response: The studio is making adjustments based on player feedback, such as improving the visibility of objectives and increasing resource availability to enhance the early gameplay experience.

    Bungie’s Marathon has made a strong debut on Steam. The game’s store page indicates a release date of March 5, 2026, and as of now, it holds a “Very Positive” rating based on 15,372 English reviews, with a total of 19,225 reviews overall. This gives Bungie a solid starting point, but the discussions among players reveal a more mixed sentiment than the overall rating might imply.

    Player Feedback

    Players seem to enjoy the essence of Marathon more than its introduction. One Steam review states simply, “Good so far,” which captures the general early sentiment: players appreciate the shooting mechanics and gameplay loop, yet many are eager to see if Bungie can address the existing issues before the initial excitement wanes. On the Steam Community, another detailed post mentions that “the game is fun, and the loop is plenty engaging,” while also cautioning about the challenges associated with live-service games.

    Game Design Concerns

    This division is significant because Marathon isn’t designed to be a casual shooter. Bungie describes it as a “PvPvE survival extraction FPS,” emphasizing limited resources, exfiltration, stronger gear gained through successful runs, and progressively challenging zones. In short, difficulty is part of the gameplay design. The main issue for new players is not that the game is intense, but that many feel it does not adequately teach them how to handle that intensity.

    Discussions on Reddit

    Reddit mirrors this division. Positive discussions are prevalent, with one thread titled “This is my most anticipated game in a while” expressing that the recent tech test made everything about the game seem fantastic, particularly the art style. Another post asks, “Am I the only one that wants this game to succeed?” and features replies praising the game’s visuals and the hope that Bungie’s shooting mechanics will carry through. A third comment notes that people criticizing the game are “getting boring” and describes Marathon as something the user “genuinely cannot wait” to play.

    On the other hand, Reddit is also a platform where many clear criticisms are being voiced. One thread titled “The UI/icons are so bad” highlights that users struggle to understand items unless they hover over them. Another thread expresses concerns that the game “won’t survive” if the community keeps mocking casual players, dismissing UI and difficulty issues as mere “skill issues,” adding that the game is “extremely vague in explaining itself.” A third post mentions the number of players “struggling with the basic mechanics” is “mind-boggling,” and then quickly shifts to discuss lessons about ammo management and choosing battles wisely. Together, these comments reveal a consistent issue: while Marathon has depth, many players feel it does not clarify its mechanics initially.

    Bungie’s Awareness of Issues

    Bungie’s launch guidance seems to highlight this concern. In their official “Marathon Starter Tips,” the studio advises players to carry “plenty of ammo and healing items” since they “won’t find much in-run,” suggests looking for ammo crates rather than just loose ammo, and recommends conserving ammo by using knives on weaker enemies. These tips are practical, yet they also emphasize how easily novice players might run out of resources or misinterpret the game’s expectations.

    Bungie also seems to recognize the need for improvement in the early gameplay experience. In a Steam Community launch update, the studio announced that they have doubled the distance at which objective navigation points appear from 10 meters to 20 meters, increased the number of med kits and ammo crates available on Perimeter, and boosted starting ammo in several free sponsored kits. These are not just surface-level changes; they are specific adjustments aimed at improving understanding and survivability, suggesting Bungie is responding directly to the concerns raised by players on Reddit and Steam.

    Conclusion

    The early user reactions to Marathon are more intriguing than a simple review score indicates. Many players clearly believe Bungie has a solid foundation. Steam’s average review is strong, and there is a visible group on Reddit defending the game’s artistic direction and potential. Even skeptical players often admit that Bungie still knows how to create enjoyable shooting experiences. However, the criticism is not just random noise from launch week; it is specific, repeated, and practical, addressing issues like confusing UI, rough onboarding, pressure on casual gamers, and a steep learning curve that can feel unwelcoming before players fully grasp the gameplay systems.

    Currently, Marathon appears to be appealing to an audience that is ready to engage with it on its own terms. The critical question is whether Bungie can expand that audience without losing what makes the game unique. If the studio continues to enhance clarity, resource management, and initial gameplay experience, the current difficulty might become a positive aspect of the game’s identity. If not, the same features that hardcore fans see as depth may continue to come across as frustrating to newcomers.

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  • Bungie Requests Delay on Marathon Reviews as Steam Players Drop Below 100K

    Bungie Requests Delay on Marathon Reviews as Steam Players Drop Below 100K

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bungie has requested a delay in Marathon reviews until after the game’s launch date for more content availability.
    2. Early access issues have led to some review sites not finalizing their opinions, impacting the information available to buyers.
    3. Marathon’s player count on Steam has not met projections, with only about 87,000 players at launch, compared to higher counts for other games.
    4. Initial reviews on Steam are positive, with an 84% rating, though there are concerns about a cluttered user interface.
    5. Major updates are planned, including a ranked mode and an endgame zone map, to enhance gameplay and narrative progression.

    Buyers who are unsure about Bungie’s new extraction shooter might not find helpful information on Metacritic. This is partly because the publisher has asked for a delay in Marathon reviews until after the game’s launch date. They have requested that review sites hold off on sharing their thoughts until more content is available later in March.

    Early Access Issues

    On the ResetEra forums, it was revealed that a well-known contributor’s media outlet “didn’t get early access to the server.” Other users supported this statement, pointing out that IGN’s ongoing review wouldn’t be finalized until the end of the month.

    Player Count Concerns

    It’s uncertain if favorable reviews for Marathon would have increased the game’s peak player count on Steam. Nevertheless, the game has not met certain projections, reaching only about 87,000 players on its March 5th launch date. Currently, it sits outside the top 10 most-played games on Valve’s platform. In comparison, the new indie game Slay the Spire 2 has achieved a much healthier player count of over 177,000.

    During the server slam, the Bungie project hit a peak player count of over 143,300 on Steam. However, that number gradually dropped as the playtest came to an end. With a price of $39.99, players might think twice before trying it again.

    Positive Initial Reception

    Despite some doubts, early reviews for Marathon on Steam are highlighting the positive aspects of the extraction shooter. Currently, it has a very positive rating of over 84%. Many gamers appreciate the smooth gunplay that is characteristic of Bungie titles like Destiny 2. However, there have been frequent complaints regarding a cluttered user interface since the initial demos.

    Not too many players are complaining about a lack of content, which seems to be a concern for the studio. There are mixed feelings about Bungie’s unusual approach to review sites. Some gamers believe that critics should be encouraged to give their final opinions on a paid product. Conversely, the live-service model can significantly alter a game after it has been released.

    Future Updates

    Season 1 for the sci-fi shooter is currently ongoing, but players can look forward to major updates soon. An endgame zone map will provide a clearer understanding of the narrative’s progression. Additionally, a ranked mode is set to enhance competitive multiplayer features in the latter half of March.

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  • Marathon ESRB Ratings for PS4 and Xbox One Bungie Shooter

    Marathon ESRB Ratings for PS4 and Xbox One Bungie Shooter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Surprising Platform News: Marathon’s ESRB rating page suggests it may be available on PS4 and Xbox One, despite no official confirmation from Bungie or Sony.

    2. Release Date Access: At launch on March 5th, only PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC players will have access to Marathon, with older consoles potentially receiving support later due to cross-platform initiatives.

    3. Past Console Port Trends: There have been examples of previous-gen console ports after initial game launches, but such practices are becoming less common, especially with upcoming consoles like the PS6.

    4. ESRB Listing Error Possibility: The ESRB listing for Marathon could be an error, as past instances show incorrect platform listings that were later corrected.

    5. Performance Concerns: There are doubts about whether Marathon would run well on PS4 or Xbox One, as the focus seems to be on resolution rather than high refresh rates, even for the PS5 Pro.

    PlayStation enthusiasts who haven’t upgraded to the PS5 have gotten some unexpected news. The ESRB rating page for Marathon is now live, showing some surprising platforms for the extraction shooter. Although neither Bungie nor Sony have made any official announcements regarding the platforms, it appears the game might also be available on the PS4 and Xbox One.

    Release Date Uncertainty

    Currently, there are no signs that a version of Marathon for PS4 or Xbox One will be available at its release on March 5th. It seems that only players on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC will have access to the game from day one. Nevertheless, Sony’s initiative to support cross-platform play suggests that they may look to introduce live-service games on various systems in the future. So, it’s possible that the older consoles could get support later on.

    Past Console Ports

    As a report from Clawsomegamer points out, there have been instances of previous-generation console ports after a game’s initial launch. For example, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor released in April 2023, but the PS4 version didn’t come out until September 2024. However, seeing this kind of practice has become less common. In the past year, Sony Interactive Entertainment hasn’t released any significant first-party titles for the PS4.

    With the PS6 on the horizon, other game developers are also moving away from supporting the PlayStation 4. In a first for the wrestling franchise, 2K Games will not provide versions for the PS4 and Xbox One for WWE 2K26. Additionally, HoYoverse has announced it will stop supporting Genshin Impact on older consoles, even though Call of Duty games are still an exception—though rumors suggest that might change soon.

    Possible ESRB Listing Error

    The Marathon listing on the ESRB site could potentially be a mistake. A Reddit user named Bloodgecko reminded the community that the site previously listed PS4 for the 2020 remake of Demon’s Souls before correcting it. Since Bungie started working on the extraction shooter back in 2021, they might have abandoned the idea of developing for older consoles.

    Another point of concern is whether the performance of Marathon would be satisfactory on PS4 or Xbox One. During the server slam, it seemed to perform well on lower-end PCs. However, even on the PS5 Pro, there’s no confirmation of a 120Hz mode, as the studio seems to be focusing more on resolution instead of high refresh rates.

     

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  • Marathon Server Slam Beta Reaches 143K Players: Gunplay Praised, UI Critique

    Marathon Server Slam Beta Reaches 143K Players: Gunplay Praised, UI Critique

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marathon’s Server Slam beta attracted 143,000 concurrent players on Steam, indicating strong initial interest despite previous delays.
    2. The player count on Steam dropped to about 70,000 within a day, suggesting a challenge in gameplay difficulty but potential for spikes during the testing period.
    3. The beta testing is a key opportunity for Bungie to gather player feedback and build excitement before the official game launch.
    4. Player feedback highlights praise for the gunplay but criticism for a cluttered user interface, leading Bungie to consider quality-of-life improvements.
    5. Marathon’s player engagement is comparable to Arc Raiders, which indicates it may compete well in the extraction shooter market upon release.

    Bungie’s new venture into the extraction-shooter world, Marathon, has made a notable return after facing an indefinite delay. The Server Slam beta test for Marathon began on February 26, and it surprised many doubting gamers by attracting 143,000 concurrent players on Steam on its first day, a remarkable feat considering the game’s rocky playtests throughout 2025.

    Player Participation Insights

    It’s important to note that these numbers only reflect players on Steam and do not include those playing on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X|S. This means that the actual number of players participating in Marathon’s Server Slam beta is likely much higher.

    Right now, Marathon’s Server Slam beta represents the last chance for gamers to experience Bungie’s new extraction shooter for free. This strategy allows Bungie to gather valuable player feedback while keeping excitement high ahead of the game’s official launch.

    Feedback on Gameplay

    Many players have commended Marathon for its intense and challenging approach to the extraction-shooter genre, blending PvP and PvE experiences that are quite thrilling. However, the number of players on Steam has noticeably decreased within a single day, falling to about 70,000 concurrent users. This drop may be due to the game’s tough difficulty, but it still indicates that players are working to master the mechanics of Marathon.

    There’s a chance that player numbers for Marathon might spike again over the weekend, as it’s common for games to experience drops in player count during beta testing.

    Comparing Popularity with Competitors

    For reference, Marathon’s player engagement is similar to that of Arc Raiders, which saw nearly 190,000 concurrent players at its final beta testing stage. Since then, Arc Raiders has sold over 14 million copies globally, suggesting that it’s not unrealistic for Marathon to compete with Embark’s extraction shooter once it launches.

    Gamers have also expressed their approval of Marathon’s gunplay, as Bungie is well recognized for its array of unique and enjoyable weapons in titles like Destiny 2. Nevertheless, many gamers have shared their frustrations regarding the game’s interface, which is often seen as cluttered and confusing.

    Bungie, however, remains positive about the player feedback and is encouraging new players to share their opinions, aiming to implement quality-of-life improvements to Marathon in the near future.

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  • New Extraction Shooter Launches Free Server Slam, Beats Arc Raiders

    New Extraction Shooter Launches Free Server Slam, Beats Arc Raiders

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Concept: Marathon is a PvP extraction shooter that combines high-stakes raids with hero-like abilities and precise shooting mechanics, set on the planet Tau Ceti IV.

    2. Popularity: It ranks as the third best-selling game on Steam in the U.S., showing strong interest from gamers, though this may be driven by pre-release anticipation.

    3. Free Testing Event: Bungie is hosting a “Server Slam” event from February 28 to March 2, allowing players to test the game for free and provide feedback before launch.

    4. Pricing: Marathon is priced around $40 for the standard edition and $60 for the Deluxe Edition with cosmetic enhancements.

    5. Platform Limitation: The game is currently not supported on Steam Deck, which may limit access for portable gamers.

    With Marathon, Bungie is set to introduce a PvP extraction shooter that mixes high-stakes raids with hero-like abilities, along with the studio’s signature precise shooting mechanics. Players take on the role of Runners on the planet Tau Ceti IV, where they must collect valuable loot and successfully make their escape.

    Growing Popularity in the U.S.

    The excitement for Marathon is particularly notable in the United States, where it currently ranks as the third best-selling game on Steam, sitting two spots ahead of Arc Raiders. This popularity highlights a strong interest from gamers.

    However, it’s important to remember that this high ranking on Steam might be mainly due to the anticipation surrounding its release, and it doesn’t guarantee long-lasting success. Still, being in the top three is a clear indicator of above-average sales. For fans of this gaming genre, Marathon seems to be an intriguing upcoming title.

    Free Access Before Launch

    Right before the official launch, Bungie is giving players a chance to test the extraction shooter for free. The “Server Slam” event is taking place from February 28 to March 2, aiming to collect last-minute community feedback while also stress-testing the servers and matchmaking systems.

    When it comes to pricing, Marathon is in a similar price range as Embark’s Arc Raiders. It is priced at approximately $40 and is available for pre-order. Meanwhile, the Deluxe Edition, which comes with various cosmetic enhancements, is set at around $60. One drawback for portable gamers, however, is that Marathon is currently marked as “Not supported” on Steam Deck, which is different from Arc Raiders.

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  • Marathon Launches with Over 100,000 Concurrent Players

    Marathon Launches with Over 100,000 Concurrent Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marathon reached a peak player count of 143,621 on PC, with total estimates possibly between 250,000 and 300,000 players when including console users.
    2. The game is currently available for free during its server slam until March 2, 2026, increasing potential player engagement before its official release.
    3. If 25% of players decide to purchase Marathon after the free period, it could surpass the success of Highguard and Concord.
    4. Despite previous delays and controversies, Bungie fans remain excited about Marathon, seeking a new experience after Destiny 2.
    5. The overall sentiment towards Marathon is positive, though definitive gameplay assessments are still pending.

    With Highguard’s massive fail, the online gaming community turned its attention to the next major live service game set to debut in Q1, 2026: Marathon. Often referred to as Concord 3.0, many gamers were skeptical about this extraction shooter due to its live-service framework. However, its free-to-play server slam has begun, and Marathon is showing impressive figures.

    Player Numbers Soar

    According to SteamDB, Marathon reached a peak player count of 143,621, with more than 100,000 players actively playing at the time of this writing. And this is only on PC. A significant number of players will also be on PS5 and Xbox Series S|X. While we can’t directly track these figures, even a conservative estimate suggests that total player numbers could range between 250,000 and 300,000. This figure is likely to increase as the weekend progresses.

    Free Access Until March

    Marathon’s server slam allows gamers to try the game for free until March 2 at 22:00 PT. It’s important to note that not every player will purchase the game upon release, but if even 25% decide to buy it, this could be a bigger success than Highguard and Concord. Its primary rival, Arc Raiders, launched with over 250,000 players, so it will be intriguing to see how many players Marathon attracts.

    Anticipation Despite Setbacks

    Despite facing several delays and a troubling controversy surrounding copied fan art, Bungie fans have been eagerly waiting for Marathon for years. Considering the current state of Destiny 2, their excitement for a new IP is understandable. While it’s still too early to make definitive judgments on gameplay, the overall sentiment appears to be largely positive.

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