Bungie has pulled the curtain back on its latest venture, Marathon, offering fans a glimpse into this new team-based sci-fi extraction shooter. This morning’s showcase not only highlighted some innovative gameplay facets but also featured a stylish cinematic narrative set in the Marathon universe.
The wait isn’t too long either—Marathon is set to release on Xbox Series X|S on September 23, 2025.
Step Into the Shoes of a Runner
In Marathon, you become a Runner, a mercenary who has embraced cybernetic enhancements over a human form. Each Runner is equipped with unique skills, allowing players to approach missions using either aggressive or tactical strategies. Customization is also key; you’ll start each game by outfitting your Runner with specific implants and weapons, evolving these with resources acquired during missions.
As part of a trio, your mission is to dive into various zones to gather loot and make it out alive. You’ll face AI security entities and competing teams that need to be handled with strategy and skill. Survive the run, and the spoils are yours for future escapades. If you’re looking for an extra edge, you can attempt solo runs, challenging yourself to outmaneuver entire teams and escape with all the gathered loot.
With decades of experience behind them, Bungie applies its FPS expertise from iconic games like Halo and Destiny 2 to Marathon. This new title promises a gripping FPS adventure infused with evolving seasonal content, inviting you and your teammates into the unfolding mysteries of Tau Ceti IV and the enigmatic derelict Marathon ship.
Exploring the Marathon Universe
Bungie has also released a cinematic piece directed by the multi-award-winning Alberto Mielgo (known for "Love, Death & Robots" and the "The Witness" episode). This short film delves into the competitive world of Marathon, introducing viewers to Tau Ceti IV and highlighting playable characters as they navigate the abandoned colony. It’s a sneak peek into the terrain where your missions will take place.
Marathon is arriving for Xbox Series X|S on September 23. You can add it to your wishlist today! For the latest updates and your chance to participate in the Closed Alpha Test this April, join the official Marathon community Discord server.
From the masterminds behind Halo and Destiny, Bungie’s latest project invites players to dive into the abandoned colony of Tau Ceti IV in a daring FPS extraction shooter. Choose your Runner—cybernetic mercenaries with personalized abilities—and engage with rival teams and security forces to amass weapons and upgrades. Your efforts contribute to both short-term survival and the long-term unraveling of the colony’s secrets.
Work collaboratively in teams of three to combat AI security and competing Runner factions. Survive these encounters, and the loot enriches your arsenal for successive runs or even the brave trek to the derelict Marathon ship overhead.
Each match in Marathon offers an opportunity to refine tactics, experiment with customizations, and strengthen your Runner. Step into this once-thriving yet now volatile colony, where factions vie for dominance, recruiting Runners to seize weapons, treasures, and strategic advantages.
Marathon ensures engaging and competitive gameplay for all skill levels, with Bungie offering top-notch FPS mechanics across multiple maps. Start in beginner-friendly zones, then gradually challenge yourself with intense high-stakes areas and a Ranked mode launching in Season One. Bungie is steadfastly devoted to ensuring fair play, investing in anti-cheat measures and dedicated server support to maintain a competitive atmosphere.
