Bungie's highly anticipated sci-fi extraction shooter, Marathon, resurfaces after a year of silence. Game Director Joe Ziegler recently provided a much-needed update, confirming the game is "on track" despite significant internal changes.
While a release date remains elusive, Ziegler revealed plans for expanded playtests in 2025, offering players a chance to experience the game firsthand. He hinted at a class-based system featuring customizable "Runners," showcasing early concept art of two potential characters: "Thief" and "Stealth."
Ziegler emphasized the game's evolution, stating that the team has implemented "aggressive changes" based on extensive player feedback. He also teased a modernized narrative and world, promising ongoing updates and content.
The game, a reimagining of Bungie's classic trilogy, is a departure from the Destiny franchise. While not a direct sequel, it shares the same universe and captures the essence of a Bungie title. Players, as Runners, will team up or go solo to compete for valuable alien artifacts on the desolate planet Tau Ceti IV. The focus remains on PvP, with player-driven narratives integrated into the overarching story.
The shift in development leadership, following the departure of original director Chris Barrett, and recent company-wide layoffs at Bungie, likely contributed to the extended development period. Despite these challenges, Ziegler's update offers a glimmer of hope, signaling progress towards the game's eventual release on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with confirmed cross-play and cross-save functionality. Adding the game to your wishlist on these platforms is encouraged to show support and stay informed of future updates.
While a specific release date remains unannounced, the promise of expanded playtests in 2025 provides a tangible milestone for eager fans.
