Marathon
Release Date: March 05, 2026
Genres: Shooter
TL;DR — Marathon Monetization
Table of Contents
Seasonal Content Will Be Free for Everyone
According to Bungie, each new season will introduce gameplay content that all players can access without paying. This includes additions such as:
- New zones to explore
- Additional Runner shells
- Other seasonal gameplay rewards and unlocks
The idea is that new gameplay features are part of the core experience rather than something locked behind a purchase.
No Pay-to-Win Mechanics
Marathon’s monetization focuses entirely on cosmetic items. Buying premium content won’t make your Runner stronger or give you an advantage in matches.
In Marathon…
🔹Seasonal gameplay content is free for all players to access or earn, including zones and Runner shells
🔹There is no pay for power
🔹Rewards Passes do not expire
🔹You can buy previous seasons' Rewards Passes if you wish
🔹You unlock rewards in your Rewards…— Marathon (@MarathonTheGame) March 5, 2026
This means there are no weapons, perks, upgrades, or gameplay boosts hidden behind premium purchases. Success in Marathon will depend purely on skill, strategy, and teamwork—not on how much you spend.
Rewards Passes Won’t Expire
Marathon introduces a system called Rewards Passes, which differs from traditional battle passes. Instead of disappearing at the end of a season, these passes remain active and can be progressed at any time.
If you miss a season, you can continue unlocking its rewards later. Bungie also plans to allow players to purchase passes from previous seasons if they want access to older cosmetic tracks.
Rewards are unlocked using SILK, a currency earned through gameplay.
SILK and LUX Currencies Explained
Marathon uses two in-game currencies, each with a different purpose:
| Currency | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SILK | Used to unlock Rewards Pass items. Earned through gameplay and cannot be purchased. |
| LUX | Premium currency used to buy cosmetic items only. |
Cosmetics: Earned or Purchased
Cosmetic rewards can be obtained in several ways. Premium Rewards Pass tracks include cosmetic items only, while many others can be earned through the game’s Codex progression system.
Some cosmetics will also be available for purchase for players who want to customize their Runner more quickly.
What This Means for Players
- Seasonal gameplay content like zones and Runner shells remains free.
- Premium purchases focus entirely on cosmetic customization.
- Your Rewards Pass progress won’t disappear if you take a break from the game.
FAQ
Is Marathon pay-to-win?
No. Bungie says premium items are cosmetic only and won’t affect gameplay.
Do Rewards Passes expire?
No. You can continue progressing them even after the season ends.
Can I buy SILK?
No. SILK can only be earned through gameplay.
Can I purchase older passes?
Yes. Bungie plans to allow players to buy previous seasons’ Rewards Passes.
Bottom line: Marathon is designed around playing to progress, while spending money is purely optional for cosmetics.