Bungie has officially shared a fresh update on its highly anticipated sci-fi extraction shooter, Marathon. The studio confirmed that development is progressing steadily, with internal milestones being met ahead of the planned closed playtests scheduled for later this month. The announcement marks a significant step forward for the project, which aims to revive the iconic Marathon franchise with a modern, multiplayer-focused twist.
Closed Playtests Begin This Month
According to Bungie, the upcoming closed playtests will allow a select group of players and internal testers to experience Marathon for the first time in a controlled environment. These sessions will focus on gathering feedback on gameplay mechanics, combat pacing, and the game’s extraction-based loop — key elements that define the core experience. While no exact date has been confirmed, the playtests are expected to take place before the end of October 2025.
A Fresh Take on the Classic Marathon Universe
Marathon is not a traditional remake of the original trilogy from the 1990s but rather a reimagining set in the same universe. The game will feature a persistent world where players take on the role of cybernetic “Runners” exploring the mysterious planet of Tau Ceti IV. Bungie’s developers described the experience as “a fusion of PvP intensity and narrative-driven discovery,” emphasizing player choice and emergent storytelling.
Bungie’s Commitment to Quality and Vision
In the update, Bungie reiterated its commitment to delivering a polished experience that meets community expectations. The studio acknowledged that it has faced challenges over the past year, especially after internal restructuring and project refocusing efforts. However, Bungie assured fans that Marathon remains a priority and is shaping up to be one of its most ambitious projects since Destiny 2.
Community Hype Builds Ahead of Reveal
While a full gameplay reveal hasn’t been announced yet, fans are speculating that Bungie may showcase Marathon at an upcoming gaming event or host a standalone digital presentation later this year. The studio encouraged players to stay tuned to its official channels for updates, teasing that “2026 will be a defining year for the next evolution of Marathon.”