Yes, Marathon Xbox is officially coming to Xbox Series X|S on March 5, 2026. Bungie’s highly anticipated extraction shooter will launch simultaneously on Xbox, PlayStation 5, and PC with full cross-play and cross-save support. Despite Sony owning Bungie, the developers chose to keep Marathon multi-platform, ensuring Xbox players can join the action on day one. This guide covers everything you need to know about Marathon on Xbox, from gameplay features to pre-order details.
Key Takeaways
- Marathon Xbox releases March 5, 2026, on Xbox Series X|S alongside PS5 and PC
- Features full cross-play and cross-save functionality across all platforms
- Not coming to Xbox Game Pass at launch – will be a premium title
- Standard Edition costs $40, Deluxe Edition $60, Collector’s Edition $200
- Runs at 60fps on Xbox Series S with enhanced performance on Series X
- Pre-order bonuses include exclusive weapons and cosmetic items
- Set on the mysterious planet Tau Ceti IV with PvPvE survival gameplay
What is Marathon?
Marathon is Bungie’s new team-based extraction shooter set in the dark sci-fi world of Tau Ceti IV. As a bio-cybernetic Runner, you’ll scavenge this derelict colony for valuable resources while fighting against other players and deadly enemies. Unlike traditional shooters, Marathon combines tense exploration with fast-paced PvP combat, creating a unique PvPvE survival experience that rewards both strategy and skill.
The game draws inspiration from Bungie’s legendary Halo and Destiny franchises but introduces innovative mechanics through its Runner Shell system. These moddable bio-synthetic bodies allow for deep customization, letting you adapt your playstyle to different situations. Whether you prefer stealthy approaches or aggressive combat, Marathon’s gameplay offers something for every type of player.
Marathon Xbox Release Date and Platforms
Marathon Xbox will launch on March 5, 2026, simultaneously across all major platforms. This multi-platform approach was a core decision when Sony acquired Bungie in 2022, ensuring that console differences wouldn’t separate the player base. Xbox Series X|S players will get the same experience as their PlayStation and PC counterparts, with platform-specific optimizations for each system.
The game will be available digitally through the Xbox Store, with physical copies potentially coming later based on demand. Bungie has confirmed that Marathon will support Xbox Smart Delivery, meaning you’ll get the best version for your console whether you’re playing on Xbox Series X or Series S. This ensures optimal performance regardless of which Xbox model you own.
Marathon Game Pass Availability
Many Xbox players wonder if Marathon Game Pass inclusion is planned, but unfortunately, the game will not be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch. Bungie has confirmed that Marathon will be a premium title with a one-time purchase cost, similar to their approach with Destiny 2. The game will cost $40 for the Standard Edition, positioning it as a mid-range priced experience rather than a full $60 AAA title.
While there’s always a possibility that Marathon could join Game Pass in the future, Bungie hasn’t announced any plans for subscription service inclusion. The studio wants to maintain control over the game’s economy and player experience, which they feel would be complicated by Game Pass integration. For now, Xbox players will need to purchase Marathon directly to play.
Cross-Play and Cross-Save Features
One of Marathon’s standout features is its comprehensive cross-platform support. Marathon cross-play allows you to team up with friends regardless of whether they’re playing on Xbox, PlayStation, or PC. This means your Xbox squad can include players from other platforms without any restrictions, making it easier to play with your entire friend group.
The Marathon cross-save functionality is equally impressive. Using your Bungie.net account, you can carry your progress, unlocks, and purchases between platforms. However, you’ll need to buy the game separately on each platform you want to play on. This system gives you flexibility to switch between Xbox and other devices while maintaining your character progression and collection of items.
Xbox Performance and Graphics
Based on recent server stress tests, Marathon gameplay performs excellently on Xbox hardware. Xbox Series X players can expect smooth 60fps gameplay with high-resolution graphics, while Xbox Series S maintains a solid 1080p 60fps experience with some visual compromises. There’s no confirmation yet about 120fps support, but Bungie is working to optimize performance across all Xbox consoles.
The game takes full advantage of Xbox Series X|S features including fast loading times, quick resume, and enhanced audio. The dark sci-fi atmosphere of Tau Ceti IV comes to life with detailed environments, dynamic lighting, and impressive particle effects. Whether you’re exploring abandoned colonies or engaging in intense firefights, Marathon delivers a visually stunning experience on Xbox hardware.
Pre-Order Editions and Bonuses
Marathon pre-order options are now available on the Xbox Store with three different editions to choose from:
Standard Edition ($40):
- Base game
- Pre-order bonus weapons
- ZERO STEP 004 CE Tactical Sidearm Style
- ZERO STEP RC Weapon Charm
Deluxe Edition ($60):
- Everything from Standard Edition
- Additional cosmetic items
- Season Pass access
- Exclusive Runner Shell skins
Collector’s Edition ($200):
- All Deluxe Edition content
- 1/6-scale Thief Runner Shell statue
- Collectible miniature WEAVEworm
- Physical art book and soundtrack
Pre-ordering guarantees access to launch-day bonuses and helps support the developers. However, with recent delays in the gaming industry, some players prefer to wait for reviews before committing to a purchase.
Marathon Gameplay Mechanics
Marathon extraction shooter gameplay combines elements from various genres to create something unique. Unlike traditional shooters where you respawn instantly, Marathon features a high-stakes extraction system. If you die during a mission, you lose everything you collected unless your team can successfully extract your gear. This creates tension and makes every decision meaningful.
The game supports both solo and team play, with squads of up to three players. Each mission begins with you infiltrating Tau Ceti IV, choosing your objectives, and attempting to extract with valuable loot. The PvPvE system means you’ll fight both AI enemies and other players, with the environment itself posing additional threats through hazards and traps.
Runner Shells and Customization
The Runner Shells system is Marathon’s most innovative feature. These bio-synthetic bodies serve as your character and can be extensively customized with different mods, abilities, and cosmetic items. Each Shell has unique traits that affect gameplay, allowing you to specialize in different roles like combat, stealth, or support.
Bungie has revealed seven distinct Runner Shell classes at launch, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. You can switch between Shells between missions, letting you adapt your strategy based on your team composition and mission objectives. This system adds incredible depth to Marathon’s gameplay and ensures that no two matches feel exactly the same.
Xbox Controls and Features
Marathon Xbox controls are designed to feel familiar to FPS players while introducing new mechanics for the extraction genre. The game supports both traditional controller layouts and customizable options, letting you fine-tune the experience to your preferences. Xbox players will also benefit from features like:
- Haptic feedback support for Xbox Wireless Controllers
- Quick resume functionality for seamless gaming sessions
- Voice chat integration for team coordination
- Xbox Achievements and Gamerscore support
- Cloud saves for additional backup beyond Bungie’s cross-save system
The game also includes accessibility features like customizable subtitles, colorblind modes, and adjustable difficulty settings to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Marathon coming to Xbox Game Pass?
No, Marathon will not be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch. Bungie has confirmed it will be a premium title requiring a one-time purchase. The game costs $40 for the Standard Edition, with Bungie stating they want to maintain control over the game’s economy and player experience rather than adopting a subscription model.
Does Marathon have cross-play between Xbox and PC?
Yes, Marathon features full cross-play support between Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. You can team up with friends regardless of their platform, and matchmaking will pool players from all systems together. This ensures a healthy player base and lets you play with your entire friend group without platform restrictions.
How does Marathon perform on Xbox Series S?
Based on recent testing, Marathon runs smoothly on Xbox Series S at 1080p 60fps with no major performance issues. While some visual compromises are necessary compared to Xbox Series X, the gameplay experience remains excellent. There’s no confirmation yet about 120fps support on either Xbox console.
Is Marathon pre-order worth it?
Whether Marathon pre-order is worth it depends on your confidence in the game. The pre-order bonuses are decent but not game-changing, and with recent industry delays, some players prefer waiting for reviews. However, pre-ordering guarantees launch-day access and supports the developers, which might matter to Bungie fans.
What’s the difference between Marathon and other extraction shooters?
Marathon differs from other extraction shooters through its hero-based Runner Shell system, sci-fi setting, and focus on ranked competitive modes. Unlike games like Escape from Tarkov or Hunt: Showdown, Marathon features more character progression and customization options, along with Bungie’s signature gunplay mechanics.
Can I transfer my Marathon progress from Xbox to PC?
Yes, Marathon supports cross-save functionality through your Bungie.net account. You can carry your progress, unlocks, and purchases between Xbox, PC, and PlayStation. However, you’ll need to buy the game separately on each platform you want to play on.
Will Marathon have physical copies for Xbox?
Bungie hasn’t confirmed physical copies for Marathon at launch. The game will be available digitally through the Xbox Store, with physical releases potentially coming later based on demand. Digital pre-orders are available now with immediate access to pre-order bonuses.
Conclusion
Marathon Xbox represents one of the most exciting gaming releases of 2026, bringing Bungie’s expertise to the extraction shooter genre. With its March 5, 2026 release date, comprehensive cross-platform support, and innovative Runner Shell system, Marathon promises to deliver a fresh take on competitive multiplayer gaming. Xbox players can look forward to a polished experience that takes full advantage of Series X|S hardware while maintaining accessibility across different console models.
Whether you’re a longtime Bungie fan or new to extraction shooters, Marathon offers something unique in the crowded gaming landscape. The combination of tense exploration, strategic combat, and deep customization creates endless replayability. As we approach launch, keep an eye on the official Xbox Store for pre-order opportunities and stay tuned for more details about this ambitious title from the creators of Halo and Destiny.
Ready to join the action? Check out our Arc Raiders PS5 comparison for another extraction shooter option, or explore Battlefield 6 free trial for more Xbox gaming content. For the latest Marathon updates, visit the official Marathon website and Bungie’s official site.
