Bungie Unveils New Details About Its Extraction FPS on PlayStation Blog

Bungie recently unveiled the gameplay for its upcoming title, Marathon, which promises an exciting science-fiction experience. This highly-anticipated game will launch on September 23, marking Bungie’s entry into the extraction shooter category—a genre shift for the studio renowned for its first-person shooters. In Marathon, players will gear up their Runners to collect loot against competitors, balancing the thrill of gathering treasures and the danger of getting out with everything intact.

I had an enlightening conversation with Joe Ziegler, the Game Director for Marathon, following the gameplay preview. We delved into Bungie’s fresh approach to entering a new type of gameplay, and how they’re harnessing the capabilities of the PS5 along with the game’s unique visual flair.

When asked about the team’s emotions following the reveal, Joe described the atmosphere as “nerve-cited.” For him, the unveiling represents years of dedicated work and deep passion infused into creating an unforgettable player experience. There’s excitement in finally allowing audiences to engage with Marathon, though some nerves remain about player reactions. The team is eager to see how gamers embrace the choices they’ve made.

During development, unexpected moments highlighted Marathon’s potential. Players might find themselves exploring an unknown world, confronting fearsome foes like the United Earth Space Council, or escaping from gunfire. These tense, on-the-edge-of-your-seat scenarios define the experience, leaving players with unforgettable memories.

Regarding the origin of “Marathon,” Joe explains that it traces back to the 1994 game, where “Marathon” was a colony spaceship sent by the UESC to extend humanity’s reach in space. Built into a moon-like asteroid, it was meant for a 500-year voyage—a testament to both name and concept. This legacy continues in 2025’s Marathon, where elements from the original game blend with new interpretations, creating familiarity for veteran fans while introducing fresh content.

Bungie’s reputation for exceptional gunplay poses questions on maintaining that quality in Marathon while offering something new. According to Joe, survival is at the heart of this game. Players must manage resources wisely and stay alert, with tactical gun engagements underlined by survival mechanics. For instance, instead of quick health regeneration, players rely on consumables, blending the familiar enjoyment of Bungie’s action with strategic survival layers.

For players intrigued yet apprehensive about extraction shooters, Joe assures that, while challenging, the game richly rewards skill development. Marathon is finely tuned for controllers, emphasizing ease of use so players can focus on acquiring vital survival abilities.

Rather than losing everything when risks don’t pay off, Marathon offers meaningful progression. Players accumulate experience to level up runners, enhance stats through faction-provided upgrades, and access the Black Market with in-game currency for diverse items and enhancements, gradually expanding their options.

Bungie is maximizing PS5’s technology to elevate Marathon’s experience. With haptic feedback pulsating through DualSense controllers and immersive audio powered by the Tempest 3D Audio engine, the sensory aspects aim to engross players fully. Additionally, advanced rendering on the PS5 and PS5 Pro enhances visuals through features like PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution.

One standout quality of Marathon is its art style. Joe attributes its uniqueness to influences from graphic and product design, synthesizing bold visuals with a sci-fi touch. The blend of striking graphics against organic backgrounds isn’t just aesthetically pleasing but enhances the game’s themes of paranoia and mystery as players navigate through layers of uncertainty.

For PlayStation gamers, Marathon is an adventure calling those eager to test skills against opponents or enjoy adrenaline-filled adventures with unpredictable outcomes. Bungie is enthusiastic about welcoming new players to this cross-platform experience, where the thrill of survival and passion-driven play intersect.

Marathon will be available on PS5, Steam, and Xbox Series X|S starting September 23.