Bungie’s ambitious new title, Marathon, is facing uncertainty. With shifting timelines, a turbulent alpha test, and silence on pre-orders, many fans are wondering—will the game release on time? Here’s what we know right now, based strictly on confirmed updates and internal reports.
📅 Is Marathon Still Launching in 2025?
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🗓️ Official Release Date Still Set for September 23
As of now, Marathon’s release is still scheduled for September 23, 2025. Bungie has not made any formal announcement indicating a delay. However, recent internal reports and changes to marketing plans have cast doubt on whether the game will hit that deadline.
“We’re working hard to meet our launch goals, and we’ll update players as soon as we’re ready to share more details.” — Bungie (paraphrased internal communication per report)
What Happened After the Closed Alpha?
A limited closed alpha test—intended as a checkpoint for development—sparked significant internal and external concern:
- Feedback from testers and staff was largely negative, focusing on the game’s direction and gameplay loop.
- A controversy involving artwork from the alpha build led to a public apology from the art director after accusations of plagiarism.
- Studio morale was described as being at a low point, with some employees noting that “the vibes have never been worse.”
Pre-Orders & Marketing Campaign Paused
📣 Pre-Order Rollout Postponed
Originally, Bungie had plans to roll out pre-orders and a major gameplay trailer in June 2025. However, that initiative has been postponed indefinitely, with no updated date or trailer debut confirmed.
This shift appears to be directly tied to internal reevaluation following the alpha reception.
🎮 Beta or Playtests?
🔁 Open Beta Likely Replaced by Public Testing Waves
An open beta was initially on the calendar for August 2025. Current reports now suggest that Bungie may abandon the single beta model in favor of multi-phase public playtests.
Details are limited—it’s unclear whether these will be invite-only, require NDA agreements, or be freely accessible. Players are advised to stay alert for official communication outlining access conditions.
Why Players Are Expecting a Delay
Several key factors have fueled delay speculation:
Reason | Explanation |
🧪 Negative Alpha Reception | Testers were critical of the current build’s gameplay and core mechanics |
🎨 Art Plagiarism Controversy | Alpha footage included allegedly unlicensed work, prompting a public apology |
😕 Internal Uncertainty | Reports suggest development morale is low and major changes are underway |
Where Things Stand Now
Milestone | Status |
Closed Alpha | Completed – received negative feedback |
Pre-Orders | Delayed/postponed indefinitely |
August Open Beta | Possibly replaced with phased playtests |
Release Date | Still September 23, 2025 (not confirmed delayed) |
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Darya Chavez is a gaming journalist passionate about delivering the latest news from the world of video games. With a sharp eye for industry trends and updates, she keeps players informed about upcoming releases, events, and major game changes.