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In an interesting twist, Bungie’s much-anticipated first-person shooter, Marathon, will not follow the growing trend of free-to-play games. Instead, players should expect this to be a premium release. Although precise pricing details remain under wraps, Bungie has clarified that this game won’t come with the hefty $70 price tag that many big titles do. It might be wise to keep an ear out for further updates this summer when more pricing information will be released. Initially, expect the game to feature three maps, with a fourth arriving shortly after launch alongside a battle pass.
Bungie fans have been eagerly awaiting more details about the Marathon reboot, and finally, Bungie has shared tangible insights, including gameplay trailers and insights into this mysterious extraction shooter. A thrilling Marathon trailer unveiled key elements, like the game’s signature Runners, its adrenaline-pumping extraction gameplay, and crucial release dates. Gamers can gear up for Marathon’s official release on September 23, while select lucky players will dive in early during the closed alpha starting April 23.
Despite the excitement, Marathon’s choice to be a paid game with just three maps at the outset has stirred up some debate among fans. Some of them have drawn comparisons to Concord, a Sony-backed hero shooter that failed to find its footing as a premium title in a space filled with free-to-play competitors. Understandably, this has sparked a bit of skepticism.
Yet, we shouldn’t write Marathon off before its race even begins. Bungie’s pedigree of delivering hit first-person shooters could carry Marathon across the finish line as a successful title. While the decision to eschew the free-to-play model might raise a few eyebrows, it could work in the game’s favor if the experience turns out to be compelling enough to keep players hooked long-term. The upcoming alpha will be a critical moment for Marathon, as fan feedback could significantly shape its journey to release on September 23. Let’s see if Bungie can convert any doubts into enthusiasm and establish Marathon as another hit in its repertoire.
