Bungie launches open beta for Marathon ahead of full release
Bungie opened access to the Marathon Server Slam this week, marking the first large-scale public test of its upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter before its official launch on March 5. The open beta, which began on February 26 and runs until March 2, is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC with full cross-play and cross-save functionality. Players do not need an online subscription to participate.
The test immediately attracted massive attention. According to data shared by GamesRadar, the game drew a peak of more than 143,000 concurrent players on Steam during its opening day, a figure that only reflects PC participation. The surge caused intermittent download failures and login queues as Bungie’s servers struggled to accommodate demand. The company described the event as a “global technical stress test,” emphasizing that disruptions and server maintenance may occur as part of ongoing stability checks.
Participants can explore two maps, Perimeter and Dire Marsh, and choose from five different Runner Shells unique class setups defining each character’s abilities. Early contracts for five in-game factions are available, and players can join either solo or squad queues. A sixth shell, named Thief, along with additional zones, will debut at full release alongside the game’s first season.
Bungie introduced a carry-over progression system to encourage participation. Completing the initial mission grants a special emblem and banner, while reaching higher character levels unlocks enhanced weapon and equipment caches that migrate to the launch version. The most dedicated players who achieve Level 30 will earn exclusive Deluxe-tier items, including rare weapons and gear.
Marathon’s development has faced delays and revisions since its original planned release in 2025. Following an early alpha test criticized for limited narrative depth, Bungie postponed the project for major redesigns. Feedback from a second closed test in October 2025 proved more encouraging, paving the way for the confirmed March 2026 release. The game will retail at $40. Bungie noted that beta participants should expect periodic server maintenance and timed access adjustments during peak hours as final preparations continue for launch.
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