The Marathon Open Beta (Server Slam) runs from February 26 at 10 AM PT to March 2 at 10 AM PT. You can download it for free on Steam, Xbox Store, and PlayStation Store.

The beta supports crossplay and cross-save, so you can play with friends on any platform and keep your progress. Rewards earned in the beta, like emblems and item caches, carry over to the full launch on March 5.

Just open your store on the Marathon Beta start date, search for the game, and download the Marathon Server Slam build. Test the game early, join the action, and secure your launch bonuses before the official release.

How To Join The Open Beta

On PC via Marathon on Steam, follow these steps:

  • Check that your system meets minimum requirements: Windows 10, 8 GB RAM, and a DirectX 11-compatible GPU.
  • Open Steam and log into your account.
  • Type Marathon in the store search bar.
  • Select “Marathon Open Beta (Server Slam)”.
  • Click “Install” and wait for the download to finish.

On Xbox, here’s how to get in:

  • Open the Xbox Store on your console.
  • Search for “Marathon Open Beta”.
  • Select the beta version and press “Download”.
  • Launch the game after installing it.

On PlayStation, do the following:

  • Open the PlayStation Store.
  • Search for “Marathon Open Beta (Server Slam)”.
  • Add it to your library and download.
  • Start the game from your library when ready.

To enable crossplay and cross-save, complete these steps:

  • Link your platform account to your main game account when prompted.
  • Confirm account linking in the settings menu.
  • Use the same linked account on all platforms to share progress and rewards.

Beta Schedule and Transition to Full Launch

The Marathon Open Beta is only available for a short time, so timing really matters.

You can play from February 26 at 10 AM PT to March 2 at 10 AM PT, and then access closes. Your gameplay progress and levels will reset when the beta ends, but cosmetic items and milestone rewards you unlock will carry over.

The full game launches on March 5 as a premium title, so the beta is your limited chance to try it early and earn rewards before release.

All Marathon Beta Rewards

Open Beta rewards unlock at set milestones and give real advantages, especially for competitive players. these rewards mean more build options, earlier optimization, and unique gear on day one. Your level resets at launch, but these rewards stay.

Intro Mission Rewards

  • Standard Tier: basic cosmetics and starter currency
  • They let you customize early and learn the systems

First Mission Completion

  • Standard Tier: Weapon Chip Mods
  • Enhanced Tier: extra Mods and a Runner Shell Core
  • Mods and Cores improve weapon behavior and build flexibility

Runner Level 10

  • Enhanced Tier: Implants and upgrade materials
  • Deluxe Tier: exclusive weapon unlock (e.g., Magnum)
  • Implants boost stats and playstyle options, great for PvP edges

Runner Level 30

  • Deluxe Tier: exclusive weapons like Hardline and Volley Rifle, plus premium cosmetics
  • High-tier gear gives more loadout depth and prestige at launch

What’s Included in the Server Slam

The Server Slam in Marathon gives you a focused preview of the full game and lets you learn the extraction loop fast. Some loadouts and features are restricted, but it keeps the focus on core gameplay.

In this test build, you get access to the content like:

  • Maps: Perimeter map and Dire Marsh
  • Factions: MIDA faction, NuCaloric, Traxus, CyberAcme, and Arachne faction
  • Runner Shells: 5 of the 6 available at launch
  • Modes: Scavenger Runs with solo or squad matchmaking

Gameplay Expectations

Marathon puts players in fast PvPvE action where every choice matters. Fight, loot, or extract while AI and other players challenge your decisions.

  • Decide when to fight or extract for maximum rewards.
  • Navigate a mix of AI enemies and human opponents.
  • Customize builds with implants and Runner Shells to fit your style.
  • Play solo or with a squad, adjusting strategy on the fly.

Competitive Potential

Marathon’s seasonal roadmap is built for serious competitive play. The most essential points include:

  • Ranked mode tests your skill against others.
  • Seasonal updates add maps and shells for fresh strategies.
  • Precision shooting and smart builds determine match outcomes.
  • Squad coordination can give a tactical edge in every match.

Bungie’s Legacy and Marathon Revival

Bungie has shaped multiplayer shooters for decades, from the original Marathon trilogy to Halo. The 2026 reboot updates the classic formula while keeping the series’ signature PvPvE intensity.

This mix of nostalgia and modern features makes the reboot stand out in today’s live-service shooter landscape.

Market Position and Genre Competition

Marathon enters a crowded extraction shooter market with a premium live-service model, setting it apart from free-to-play alternatives. This strategy positions Marathon as a competitive, rewarding, and fair shooter for 2026.

Conclusion

The Marathon Open Beta is your chance to dive into fast PvPvE action in this Bungie extraction shooter, test builds, and explore the loop before the full launch.

 

Marathon

Marathon

Release Date: March 5, 2026

Genres: Extraction Shooter

More Info