Bungie’s Marathon set for March release on PS5 and PC — priced at $40

Bungie has confirmed that its survival extraction shooter Marathon will launch on PlayStation 5 and PC in March and will be sold for $40. The game previously faced an indefinite delay after being slated for a September release, but the studio has now locked in a new window and shared a lengthy update showing the current state of the title.

The developer released a 23-minute deep-dive video highlighting new content and improvements: Marathon will include a solo mode, proximity voice chat, upgraded environmental storytelling, and improved visual fidelity. Bungie also outlined plans for post-launch support with new maps, events and additional “shells” (character classes) that players can customize.

Key features and changes

• Release: March (PS5 and PC).
• Price: $40 at launch.
• New modes: Solo mode in addition to the core multiplayer extraction gameplay.
• Social features: Proximity chat to encourage in-match communication.
• Customization: Shells system (similar to classes) with new additions like the Rook shell.
• Live roadmap: Regular updates, new maps and events planned for Year One.

One notable mechanic, the Rook shell, allows players to join runs already in progress with a limited loadout — a way to participate without risking valuable gear. Bungie emphasized looting and risk/reward elements alongside core shooting and extraction loops.

Background & context

Marathon’s development faced hurdles this year, including a plagiarism controversy where a former employee used artwork without proper credit; Bungie and Sony later reached a resolution with the affected artist. The game’s delay and other challenges come as Sony reported that Destiny 2 underperformed relative to expectations and wrote down $204 million in Bungie‑related assets, while also increasing its oversight of the studio.

Despite these setbacks, Bungie is pushing forward with Marathon and aims to deliver a polished early experience at launch followed by ongoing content. The next public playtest is scheduled for 2026 as the team continues to refine gameplay and systems.

For more details and Bungie’s official update video, see Bungie’s announcements and the developer’s channels. Our source reporting on this update is available here: Engadget — Marathon release update.

Discussion: Are you planning to buy Marathon at launch for $40, or will you wait to see post‑launch updates and player feedback? What feature (solo mode, proximity chat, or shells) matters most to you?