Marathon Pricing Clarified, Set for Premium Release This Fall

Marathon will launch as a premium game, not free-to-play. Discover details on its pricing strategy and the decision to exclude proximity chat.

Marathon Development Insights

Marathon Adopts Premium Pricing Model

Marathon’s Director confirmed the game will be a premium title, not free-to-play. During a live gameplay showcase on April 13, developer Bungie revealed the release date and debuted a new trailer. While pricing details remain undisclosed, anticipation grows regarding the game’s monetization approach.

On the April 14 episode of the Friends Per Second podcast, Director Joe Ziegler emphasized, “We’re crafting an experience compelling enough to justify the purchase, with ongoing seasons that enhance the game without raising the initial cost.”

Ziegler expressed confidence in the game’s appeal, noting, “Pricing expectations vary, but we’re focused on delivering an exceptional experience.”

Speculation about Marathon’s price has sparked discussions on social media. Bungie addressed these on April 13 via a Twitter (X) post, clarifying that Marathon will not carry a full-price tag but will be a premium offering. Further pricing details are expected this summer.

No Proximity Chat in Marathon

Proximity chat, a feature allowing players to hear others based on in-game proximity, enhances multiplayer immersion. However, it can also foster toxicity due to unfiltered interactions, a concern that led Bungie to exclude it from Marathon.

In a PC Gamer interview, Ziegler explained, “We’re not opposed to proximity chat’s experience, but ensuring a safe environment for players is a priority. Managing toxicity in that space is a significant challenge.”

Ziegler highlighted the team’s commitment to a positive player experience, noting that no effective solution currently exists to mitigate proximity chat’s downsides. This omission limits interactions with opposing teams in the extraction shooter, but safety remains paramount.

Ziegler added, “If we could find a perfect solution, we’d consider it. For now, it’s a challenge many developers are tackling.”

Marathon is slated for release on September 23, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the game!