Bungie’s latest update on Marathon shows Runners, teases playtests

Exciting Updates for Bungie’s New Game

Over a year since the initial announcement of the sci-fi extraction shooter Marathon, Bungie has unveiled some fresh details about their upcoming game. This latest update took a different approach than usual, with a straightforward video featuring game director Joe Zeigler discussing the game’s progress.

New Character Classes and Playtests

After initially announcing Marathon last year, Bungie went “dark” to focus on development, promising to showcase gameplay in the future. Although gameplay footage is still under wraps, Zeigler introduced two character classes and teased upcoming playtests set for 2025. The concept of Marathon revolves around intense battles for loot, survival, and escape, featuring cybernetic mercenaries known as the Runners.

Thief and Stealth Runners

Two types of Runners were revealed during the update: the Thief and Stealth classes. The Thief, as described by Zeigler, embodies a sneaky and strategic gameplay style, with moments that can lead to both humor and chaos within the game. On the other hand, the Stealth Runner relies on deception and agility to outmaneuver opponents on the battlefield.

Continued Development Progress

Bungie is actively incorporating feedback from early playtests to make significant changes to Marathon. Zeigler mentioned that player and content creator input has been invaluable in shaping the game’s direction and gameplay mechanics, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the development process.

Anticipated Playtests and Release

While the exact launch date for Marathon remains uncertain, Bungie plans to expand playtesting opportunities in 2025, offering more players a hands-on experience with the game. This step signifies a significant milestone in the game’s development, bringing it closer to a potential launch.

New Game Director and Platform Availability

Earlier this year, Joe Zeigler assumed the role of game director for Marathon, following the departure of Christopher Barrett. Marathon is set to release on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X, promising a multi-platform experience for players.