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Marathon: The Game That's Creating Buzz Before It Even Launches

Monday, January 19, 2026
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A leak has revealed some exciting news about Bungie's upcoming game, Marathon.

Release Date and Trailer Leak

  • Release Date: March 5, 2026
  • The date was accidentally shared in a trailer that went live on Xbox for a short time.
  • The trailer was quickly taken down, but not before it spread across social media.
  • Bungie's efforts to remove the trailer suggest that the leak was real.

Preorders and Pricing

  • Price: $40
  • Preorders are expected to go live soon, about a month and a half before the release date.
  • The official announcement is anticipated shortly.

Marketing Push and Gameplay

  • The launch is part of a bigger marketing push for Marathon, which was delayed from last fall.
  • Despite setbacks, the game has been gaining traction with recent gameplay clips and a well-received video about its character classes.

Free Open Beta Challenge

  • The free open beta is expected toward the end of February.
  • This beta will be a crucial test of player interest.
  • Similar games like ARC Raiders have seen a surge in popularity after their free trials, but this isn't always the case.

Development Hurdles and Momentum

  • Marathon has been in development for at least five years.
  • The game has faced several hurdles, including a change in leadership and a plagiarism scandal.
  • Recent marketing efforts have been more successful, and the game seems to be building momentum.

Competition and Market Position

  • The question remains whether Marathon can stand out in a crowded market, especially with competitors like ARC Raiders.

Platform Availability

  • The March 5 release date fits within Sony's promised Q4 release window.
  • The game will be available on PS5, PC, and Xbox, thanks to Bungie's deal for true cross-platform play.
  • Players on any of these platforms can enjoy Marathon together.

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