Marathon Pre-Order Guide (July 2026) All Editions & Bonuses
Marathon releases March 5, 2026, with three editions priced from $39.99 to $229.99, all including exclusive pre-order bonuses for both Marathon and Destiny 2. Bungie’s new PvPvE extraction shooter features cross-platform play, six Runner classes, and comprehensive faction systems across Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Quick Reference: Marathon Editions at a Glance
| Edition | Price | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $39.99 | Base game + 7 Runner Shells + pre-order bonuses | Budget-conscious players |
| Deluxe | $59.99 | All Standard + Midnight Decay cosmetics + Premium Pass + 200 SILK | Players wanting immediate cosmetic advantages |
| Collector’s | $229.99 | All Deluxe + physical statue, art book, exclusive items | Dedicated fans and collectors |
Marathon Release Details & Platform Availability
Bungie’s highly anticipated extraction shooter launches globally on March 5, 2026, across all major gaming platforms with full cross-play and cross-save support. The game takes players to the mysterious Tau Ceti IV, a derelict colony filled with rival Runners, hostile UESC security forces, and unpredictable environmental hazards.
Contents
Platform Availability:
- Steam (PC) – Full moddable weapons and body implants
- PlayStation 5 – DualSense controller features and exclusive hardware
- Xbox Series X|S – Smart Delivery and Game Pass integration potential
System Requirements (PC):
- Minimum: Intel i5-6600/AMD Ryzen 5 2600, 8GB RAM, GTX 1050 Ti/RX 5500 XT
- Recommended: Intel i5-10400/AMD Ryzen 5 3500, 16GB RAM, GTX 2060/RX 5700 XT
Complete Marathon Edition Breakdown 2026
Standard Edition – $39.99
The Standard Edition provides excellent value at below-industry-standard pricing, making it accessible for squads while deterring cheaters through the paywall approach.
Included Content:
- Base Marathon game
- 7 unique Runner Shells for diverse playstyles
- Access to all gameplay updates throughout 2026
- Free content updates including new maps, Runner shells, and events
- All pre-order bonuses (see below)
This edition is perfect for players who want to experience the core Marathon gameplay without additional cosmetic commitments. The lower price point makes it easier for entire friend groups to jump in together.
Deluxe Edition – $59.99
The Deluxe Edition offers the best value for players who want immediate advantages and exclusive content. At just $20 more than Standard, you receive substantial bonus content valued much higher.
Deluxe Edition Exclusives:
- Premium Rewards Pass Voucher – Instant access to Season 1 premium track
- 200 SILK Tokens – Premium currency for unlocking pass rewards
- Midnight Decay Cosmetic Collection:
- Misriah 2442 Pump Shotgun Style
- Overrun AR Style
- Vandal Shell Style
- Destroyer Shell Style
- Assassin Shell Style
- Thief Shell Style
The Midnight Decay cosmetics feature a dark tactical design with black armor and blue accent highlights, potentially providing camouflage advantages in Tau Ceti IV’s shadowy environments. This edition is ideal for players who want to stand out while gaining immediate progression benefits.
Collector’s Edition – $229.99
The ultimate Marathon experience for dedicated fans and collectors, featuring premium physical items alongside all digital content. Available exclusively through the Bungie Store and select retailers.
Physical Collectibles:
- 1/6 Scale Thief Runner Statue with LED lighting, produced by PureArts
- Collectible WEAVEworm Miniature – In-game parasitic tech replica
- Premium Hexagon Packaging with lenticular poster
- Embroidered Faction Patch – High-quality collectible
- Six Art Postcards from Tau Ceti IV locations
- Beautifully Designed Display Box featuring environmental artwork
Digital Exclusives:
- All Deluxe Edition content (game code version)
- ZERO STEP Emblem (Bungie Store/PlayStation Direct exclusive)
- ZERO STEP Background (Bungie Store/PlayStation Direct exclusive)
- Unique digital rewards through premium unboxing experience
Note: Collector’s Edition is also available without game code for $170, perfect for players who already own the digital version.
Exclusive Pre-Order Bonuses
All Marathon pre-orders receive substantial bonuses across both Marathon and Destiny 2, making early purchase highly rewarding. These exclusive items are only available until March 17, 2026.
Marathon Pre-Order Rewards:
- ZERO STEP 004 CE Tactical Sidearm Style – Unique weapon appearance
- ZERO STEP RC Weapon Charm – Attachment for weapon customization
- ZERO STEP SHIFT Weapon Sticker – Additional cosmetic option
- APOGEE INTERCEPT Background – Profile customization
- APOGEE INTERCEPT Emblem – Player identity marker
Destiny 2 Cross-Game Rewards:
Pre-ordering Marathon also grants exclusive items in Bungie’s ongoing flagship title:
- UESC Echo-type Shell Exotic Ghost – Unique Ghost shell design
- UESC Rover Exotic Ship – Themed spacecraft for travel
- UESC Sprinter Exotic Sparrow – Special speeder bike
Important: Destiny 2 rewards require linking your pre-order platform to the same Bungie.net account as your Destiny 2 account. Items will be delivered to the Special Deliveries terminal in the Tower.
Additional Destiny 2 Rewards (All Players):
Even without pre-ordering, all Destiny 2 players can claim Marathon-themed rewards:
- Modern MIDA Multitool – Exotic weapon ornament
- Silkworm Weave – Marathon-themed green Legendary shader
- Waiting For Exfil – Exotic multiplayer emote
Limited Edition Hardware & Accessories
Bungie has partnered with PlayStation for exclusive Marathon-themed hardware, available in limited quantities:
Marathon Limited Edition DualSense Controller – $84.99
- Bold graphics with fractured shapes inspired by Marathon’s world
- Available globally at participating retailers
- Pre-orders begin January 29, 2026, at 10 AM local time
Marathon Limited Edition Pulse Elite Headset – $169.99
- Marathon-inspired design with vivid accents
- Crisp immersive audio with PlayStation Link connectivity
- U.S. exclusive, available only at direct.playstation.com
- Pre-orders begin January 29, 2026, at 10 AM ET
Gameplay Features & Systems
Marathon introduces innovative mechanics to the extraction shooter genre:
Runner Shell System
Choose from six distinct bio-cybernetic Runner shells, each offering unique playstyle foundations:
- Destroyer – Heavy combat specialist
- Recon – Scout and information gatherer
- Thief – Stealth and infiltration expert
- Vandal – Aggressive close-quarters combat
- Assassin – Precision eliminations
- Additional shells to be revealed
Faction System
Align with six competing factions, each offering unique rewards and progression paths:
- Complete faction contracts for baseline power increases
- Unlock Runner shell upgrades and stronger starting loadouts
- Expand vault space and access specialized wares
- Shape Tau Ceti IV’s power dynamics through your choices
Crew-Based Gameplay
- 2-3 Player Crews – Coordinate with friends for optimal success
- Solo Mode – Take on challenges alone in dedicated lobbies
- Rook Mode – Join ongoing matches as a gearless scavenger
- Proximity Chat – Form temporary alliances with rival Runners
- Crew Reboot System – Lone survivors can revive fallen teammates
Pro Tips for Marathon Pre-Orders
Choosing Your Edition
- Standard Edition: Best for casual players or those unsure about long-term commitment
- Deluxe Edition: Ideal for regular players wanting immediate advantages and cosmetics
- Collector’s Edition: Perfect for dedicated fans and Bungie collectors
Platform Considerations
- PC Players: Benefit from potential mod support and precision aiming
- PlayStation Players: Access exclusive hardware and DualSense features
- Xbox Players: Potential Game Pass integration and Smart Delivery
Pre-Order Strategy
- Pre-order before March 17, 2026, to guarantee bonus items
- Link your Bungie.net account across all platforms for cross-save
- Consider the Deluxe Edition if you plan to play regularly – the Premium Pass alone justifies the extra cost
Community Resources & Official Channels
Stay connected with the Marathon community through these official channels:
- Official Discord: discord.gg/marathonthegame – Real-time discussions and developer interactions
- Official Website: marathonthegame.com – Latest news and announcements
- Steam Community: Active discussions and player guides
- Reddit: r/Marathon for community discussions and strategies
- Social Media: Follow @MarathonTheGame on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
For Destiny 2 players, check out our comprehensive Destiny 2 Wolfsbane Exotic Axe guide to maximize your cross-game rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Marathon release?
Marathon launches globally on March 5, 2026, for Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S with full cross-platform support.
Do pre-order bonuses expire?
Yes, all pre-order bonuses are only available until March 17, 2026. After this date, these exclusive items will no longer be included with purchases.
Can I upgrade from Standard to Deluxe later?
Yes, you can purchase the Deluxe Edition upgrade separately, though pre-order bonuses are only guaranteed with initial pre-order.
Is Marathon free-to-play?
No, Marathon requires a one-time purchase starting at $39.99 for the Standard Edition. This approach helps deter cheating in the competitive extraction environment.
Will Marathon have microtransactions?
Marathon features a premium currency called SILK for cosmetic items and battle pass progression, similar to Bungie’s approach in Destiny 2.
Can I play Marathon solo?
Yes, Marathon supports solo play in dedicated lobbies, plus the unique Rook mode for joining ongoing matches as a scavenger.
How do I get my Destiny 2 pre-order rewards?
Link your pre-order platform to the same Bungie.net account as your Destiny 2 account. Rewards will be delivered to the Special Deliveries terminal in the Tower.
What’s the difference between Runner shells?
Runner shells function like character classes, each offering unique abilities, stat distributions, and cosmetic options for different playstyles.
Will Marathon have competitive modes?
Yes, Marathon will introduce a Rated mode in Season 1 for competitive players to test their skills and build reputation.
Can I transfer progress between platforms?
Yes, Marathon features full cross-save functionality, allowing you to maintain your progression across Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Ready to join the Marathon? Pre-order now to secure your exclusive bonuses and prepare for the most ambitious extraction shooter of 2026. Bookmark this guide for updates as we approach launch, and join the official Discord community to connect with fellow Runners!
For more extraction shooter content, check out our ARC Raiders pre-order guide and cross-platform games list to explore similar titles in the genre.
