Bungie has officially set a release date for Marathon, confirming that the PvPvE extraction shooter arrives on March 5, 2026. Alongside the announcement, the studio revealed a new gameplay trailer, details on pre-orders and special editions, and a Marathon-themed Limited Edition DualSense controller for PlayStation 5.
Developed by the team behind Halo and Destiny, Marathon is Bungie’s reimagining of its classic universe as a modern survival extraction FPS. Set on the distant world of Tau Ceti IV, the game centers on high-risk runs where players balance combat, exploration, and extraction against both AI enemies and rival players.
A PvPvE Extraction Shooter Built Around Risk and Survival
At its core, Marathon is a PvPvE survival extraction experience. Players control bio-cybernetic mercenaries known as Runners and deploy either solo or in squads of three. Each match sends crews into hostile environments filled with security forces, other Runners, and shifting environmental threats.
The objective is simple in structure but complex in execution: enter the map, gather valuable gear and information, and successfully extract before losing everything. Bungie’s design leans heavily into decision-making, asking players to weigh whether to push deeper for better loot or escape early with what they have secured. Derelict facilities, industrial zones, and rugged landscapes shape encounters, keeping each run unpredictable.
Rather than focusing purely on competitive firefights, Marathon blends narrative discovery with survival mechanics, letting players uncover fragments of what happened to humanity’s lost colony lightyears from Earth.
Faction Systems and Long-Term Progression
One of Marathon’s defining systems is its faction structure. The new trailer introduces Gantry, an agent for the anti-establishment group MIDA, but players will have access to six factions in total. Each faction provides contracts that shape how a run unfolds, offering objectives that tie into the game’s story and progression systems.
Completing faction missions unlocks rewards through dedicated upgrade trees. These upgrades include weapons, mods, Runner shells, and implants that alter how characters perform in combat and traversal. The system is designed to support long-term progression rather than one-off matches, giving players reasons to return as they refine their builds.
Bungie also confirmed an endgame zone called Cryo Archive, scheduled to open during Season 1. Located aboard the UESC Marathon ship, the area challenges players to bypass security systems, access frozen vaults, and confront a dangerous presence that even the in-universe authorities avoid.
Limited Edition DualSense Tied to Marathon’s Design
To coincide with launch, PlayStation and Bungie revealed the DualSense Wireless Controller – Marathon Limited Edition. The controller features fractured shapes, bold markings, and industrial-style graphics inspired by the game’s environments and equipment.
Bungie says the goal was to create a controller that feels like it belongs inside the world of Marathon, using clean lines and functional design elements rather than decorative themes. The controller releases globally on March 5, 2026, in limited quantities, with a listed price of $84.99 USD / €84.99 / £74.99, with regional pricing varying.
Pre-orders for the controller begin January 29, 2026, through direct.playstation.com in supported regions and participating retailers, with some regions offering launch-day delivery for early orders.
Editions, Pre-Orders, and Collector Content
Marathon launches with multiple purchasing options. The Standard Edition includes the base game, while the Deluxe Edition adds the Midnight Decay cosmetic bundle featuring weapon skins and Runner shell styles.
Pre-ordering either edition unlocks additional cosmetic rewards, including weapon styles, charms, and stickers, as well as bonus items connected to Destiny 2 for players linking a Bungie.net account.
Bungie also revealed a Collector’s Edition built around a premium unboxing experience tied to the game’s fiction. It includes a 1/6-scale Thief Runner Shell statue, a miniature WEAVEworm collectible, digital rewards, and themed items connected to the Marathon universe. The Collector’s Edition is aimed at players interested in both physical memorabilia and in-game customization.
Platforms and Community Support
Marathon launches March 5, 2026, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. An internet connection and Bungie.net account are required, and PS5 players will need PlayStation Plus for online play.
Bungie is also rolling out a Marathon Welcome Hub background for PS5, letting players customize their console interface with art from the game. Beyond launch, the studio plans to support the title with seasonal updates, roadmap expansions, and ongoing community engagement through the official Marathon Discord.
With its mix of PvPvE tension, faction-driven progression, and extraction mechanics, Marathon positions itself as Bungie’s next major multiplayer project, focused on long-term systems rather than standalone matches.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Marathon release?
Marathon launches on March 5, 2026.
What type of game is Marathon?
It is a PvPvE survival extraction first-person shooter where players loot, fight, and extract while competing against both AI and other players.
Which platforms will Marathon be on?
The game launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
Can Marathon be played solo?
Yes. Players can deploy solo or in crews of three, depending on their preferred playstyle.
What are factions in Marathon?
Factions provide contracts and progression paths. Completing faction missions unlocks upgrades, gear, and narrative content through unique upgrade trees.
What is the Cryo Archive?
Cryo Archive is an endgame zone unlocking in Season 1 aboard the UESC Marathon ship, featuring security puzzles, vaults, and high-level threats.
What comes with the Deluxe Edition?
The Deluxe Edition includes the Midnight Decay cosmetic bundle with Runner shell styles and weapon skins, along with additional rewards.
Is there a Marathon Limited Edition controller?
Yes. A Limited Edition DualSense controller launches alongside the game on March 5, 2026, featuring a design inspired by Marathon’s world.
Does Marathon require PlayStation Plus?
On PS5, an active PlayStation Plus subscription is required for online play.
Are there pre-order bonuses?
Yes. Pre-orders unlock cosmetic items and bonus content, including rewards linked to a Bungie.net account and Destiny 2.
