Marathon Setting An Insane Benchmark For New Extraction Shooters

Bungie has a reputation for building immersive, action-packed worlds, and Marathon looks like it’s going to live up to that legacy. Here’s what has people talking.

Gunplay That Hits the Mark

The gunplay in Marathon feels smooth and precise, a hallmark of Bungie’s first-person shooter expertise. It’s got that Halo and Destiny vibe, but adds a stamina system that makes every move matter. Sprint too much, and you’re out of breath. Perfect for keeping fights tense. GameSpot calls it a polished experience that forces you to think tactically, and from what I’ve seen, it’s spot on.

A Look That Stands Out

Visually, Marathon is a breath of fresh air. It’s got a sleek, futuristic style inspired by modern product design. Think clean lines and bold colors mixed with earthy, organic settings. It’s not the usual gritty realism you see in extraction shooters, and that’s a big part of its charm. In a PlayStation Blog interview, art director Chris Barrett said they wanted a world that feels both high-tech and real. It’s a combo that’s hard to ignore.

Easier to Jump In

Extraction shooters can be brutal for beginners. Die once, lose your gear. It’s easy to walk away frustrated. Marathon changes that with a more welcoming approach. It offers permanent upgrades and a contract system. This means even if you don’t extract, you’re still making progress. GamesRadar+ points out how this lowers the barrier, letting players focus on the fun of surviving rather than just the punishment of failure. It’s a smart way to pull more people into the genre.

Built for Teamwork

Marathon is all about squads of three, and it’s designed to make teamwork essential. Each player, called a “Runner,” brings unique abilities to the table, so you’ve got to work together to succeed. Whether you’re scavenging or fighting off rivals, coordination is key. IGN compares it to how Fortnite shook up battle royales, hinting that Marathon could do the same for extraction shooters by making team play feel seamless and rewarding.

A Story to Dig Into

Set on the mysterious Tau Ceti IV, Marathon weaves a narrative through its factions and contracts. It’s not just about grabbing loot. There’s a bigger story about the planet’s lost colony that unfolds as you play. GamesRadar+ praises the depth, saying it gives the game a purpose beyond survival. For me, that’s a huge draw. Knowing there’s more to discover keeps me coming back.

Progression That Feels Fair

The progression system in Marathon is built to keep you engaged. You earn experience and materials for upgrades like better stamina or quicker looting. Plus, there’s a Black Market for extra options. Seasons reset every three months. Get thi,s though, your core progress sticks around! In the PlayStation Blog interview, game director Joe Ziegler said they want players to feel invested, and this setup strikes a good balance between fresh starts and long-term goals.

What the Community and Devs Are Saying

Early playtests have the community hyped. On Reddit, players are calling the gunplay “addictive” and the art style “stunning.” But there’s some skepticism, too. GameSpot notes concerns about whether there’s enough content to compete in a packed genre. I get that worry, but Bungie’s history makes me think they’ve got more up their sleeve.

The developers are clear about their vision: Marathon is about survival with purpose. Ziegler told PlayStation Blog they want players to feel the stakes of every choice, which is why mechanics like stamina are in play. It’s a tough line to walk. Making a game challenging yet approachable, but it seems like they’re on the right track.

Marathon vs. the Competition

Here’s how Marathon stacks up against other extraction shooters:

Marathon stands out with its accessibility and cross-play support, offering a smoother entry point than Tarkov’s unforgiving style or Hunt’s slower pace. It looks like it’s aiming to appeal to both new players and veterans

Why Marathon Matters

Marathon isn’t just another game in the extraction shooter lineup. It’s a polished, team-driven experience with a unique vibe and a story that hooks you. Bungie’s knack for worldbuilding shines through, and their focus on accessibility could bring a whole new crowd to the extractions. With its release on the horizon, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on. Want to stay in the loop? Check out the Steam page or head to Total Apex Gaming’s news section for the latest. I’m excited to see where this game takes us. What about you?