Bungie has pulled back the curtain on Marathon with a meaty gameplay deep dive, showing exactly how its cyberpunk-themed PvP extraction shooter will play when it launches on September 23, 2025. From class customization to faction support and the thrill of high-risk, high-reward combat, the game is shaping up to be a uniquely Bungie-flavored evolution of the extraction shooter genre.
Players become cybernetic mercenaries known as Runners, humans who’ve ditched their flesh for advanced biosynthetic bodies, each with unique abilities and stats. The core gameplay loop revolves around forming 3-player crews (or going solo), deploying into hostile zones across Tau Ceti IV, scavenging loot, fighting rivals, and extracting before it’s too late.
Combat, Classes, and Customization
Combat in Marathon is designed to be both tactical and fast-paced, with players customizing loadouts and choosing their Runner class before each deployment. Bungie has already confirmed multiple distinct Runner types:
Locus – The frontline “soldier” archetype. Perfect for aggressive players who want to charge into the action and control firefights.
Blackbird – A recon-focused Runner. Equipped with tools to detect enemy presence and guide teammates with strategic intel.
Glitch – A disruptor class. Geared towards aggressive sabotage and control, Glitch pushes forward to create chaos among enemy lines.
Void – The stealth specialist. With active camouflage and smoke deployables, Void thrives in confusion and silence.
Each class supports different playstyles and team strategies. And thanks to Bungie’s experience with Destiny, the gunplay looks satisfyingly dynamic and responsive.
Factions & Sponsorships
Even if you’re wiped out, Marathon ensures players aren’t left behind. Factions in the game can sponsor struggling Runners with fresh gear, encouraging players to jump back in quickly. Building faction reputation may unlock exclusive gear and progression perks over time.
Zero to Hero Runs & Loot Economy
Much like Escape from Tarkov, if you survive a run, you keep your loot. That loot can then be used to gear up for future runs, creating a strong incentive loop and meaningful progression. If you die, however, everything you brought in can be taken by others.
This creates thrilling decision-making moments: Do you push deeper for high-value loot, or extract early with what you have?
Endgame and Replayability
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Seasonal content: The game will launch with Season 1, featuring ongoing story progression and secrets to uncover.
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Ranked play and community events promise a live-service backbone.
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Dynamic events, changing weather, and unpredictable enemy players ensure that no two runs ever play out the same.
Solo Runners Welcome
Unlike many team-focused shooters, Marathon also allows players to opt out of crew fill and run solo. This gives high-skill players the freedom to chase glory alone, with all rewards (and risks) to themselves.
You can check out the full gameplay overview below.
