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Bungie’s Marathon Launches to Strong Reviews but Softer Steam Peak Than Server Slam

Bungie is asking outlets to hold final reviews until the Cryo Archive endgame unlocks later in March.

Overview

  • Marathon went live March 5 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for $40 with crossplay, cross-progression, and a three‑month seasonal model that wipes most progression between seasons.
  • Steam’s day‑one peak hit about 88,337 concurrent players versus roughly 143,621 during the free Server Slam, even as user reviews opened at Very Positive with about 91% positive ratings.
  • Bungie requested critics delay publishing full reviews until they can play the Cryo Archive pinnacle activity later this month, with a ranked PvP mode also planned for the same window.
  • Some players discovered items shared during the Server Slam beta waiting in their launch mailboxes, effectively reclaiming rare gear despite assurances that beta progress would not carry over.
  • Early impressions praise the gunplay and art direction, while criticism targets a $10 Rewards Pass with no premium currency, pricey cosmetics, and reports of some PC performance issues.