Marathon: new sci-fi shooter from Bungie launches on Steam

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Marathon, the new science-fiction shooter from Bungie, officially launched on March 5, 2026. The game takes players to the abandoned colony of Tau Ceti IV. It blends exploration, tactical survival and fast-paced PvP battles in a dangerous environment filled with factions, security forces and unpredictable threats.

Marathon (Image source: Steam)
Marathon (Image source: Steam)

Set in a dark sci-fi universe, Marathon revolves around high-risk infiltration missions. Players take on the role of Runners — mercenaries who specialize in gathering resources in dangerous zones. The objective is simple: enter the area, secure valuable loot and extract safely before enemies or rival players take you down.

A dangerous world on Tau Ceti IV

The colony of Tau Ceti IV was once a major research hub, but now only abandoned facilities and hazardous zones remain. Players will explore deserted laboratories, ruined structures and heavily guarded security stations — all remnants of an expedition that mysteriously vanished.

Each location presents its own dangers, from hostile security forces to dynamic events and environmental hazards. The deeper you go, the tougher the challenges become, forcing players to carefully prepare for every mission.

High-risk extraction gameplay

Marathon features an extraction-style gameplay system. In each run, players enter a zone to search for valuable gear and resources. If they manage to extract successfully, all collected loot can be brought back and used in future missions.

However, failure can mean losing everything you brought into the mission. This risk-and-reward system makes preparation, resource management and tactical coordination extremely important.

Players can go solo, team up in squads of two or three, or join an ongoing match as a Rook — a lone scavenger who enters the field without starting gear.

Marathon is a survival first-person shooter (FPS). (Image source: Steam)
Marathon is a survival first-person shooter (FPS). (Image source: Steam)

Flexible character and gear customization

The game offers six different Runner shells, each designed to support a unique playstyle. Examples include Destroyer, Recon and Thief, allowing players to choose the approach that best fits their combat and exploration strategy.

Weapons and equipment can be customized through various upgrade systems. Players can collect moddable weapons, install cybernetic implants and upgrade core systems to create different build types. When playing in teams, members can coordinate their gear to maximize the squad’s overall effectiveness.

Factions and seasonal progression

Marathon features six factions competing for influence across Tau Ceti IV. Players can take contracts from these factions to grow stronger and unlock seasonal rewards.

Upgrades include improvements to Runner shells, better starting gear, expanded storage space and access to special items. This system allows players to gradually build more powerful loadouts over the course of each season.

Uncover the mystery of the Marathon expedition

Beyond combat and resource gathering, Marathon also tells the story of an expedition that disappeared a century ago. As players explore the colony, they will slowly uncover clues about what truly happened on Tau Ceti IV.

Later in the game, players can access the UESC Marathon ship in orbit. This endgame area features raid-like challenges, where teams compete to unlock vaults containing rare artifacts while facing off against fully equipped rival squads.

A new sci-fi shooter experience from Bungie

With its blend of tactical gunplay, extraction mechanics and a constantly evolving world, Marathon offers a fresh approach to the PvP shooter genre. Risk-filled expeditions and unexpected encounters between players create tense and unpredictable gameplay.