Bungie’s ‘Marathon’ Faces Early Hurdles: Player Interest Wanes After Alpha Launch
Bungie's latest venture, Marathon, an extraction shooter, has entered its Closed Alpha phase, but early signs indicate potential challenges ahead. While opinions on the game are mixed, with some enjoying the gameplay loops and others finding it difficult to stick around long-term, a concerning trend has emerged: a significant drop in player interest just days after the alpha's launch.
Data tracking the Closed Alpha's player count on Steam reveals a worrying trendline. While the initial launch saw a peak of around 7,000 players, this number plummeted by more than half within 24 hours. By the third day, the game had less than a third of its initial player base. This decline is particularly concerning considering that new alpha codes were being distributed during this period, meaning more players were gaining access to the game.
What's causing this drop in player interest? Several factors could be at play. Some players have noted that the alpha feels "watered-down," failing to attract hardcore extraction shooter enthusiasts. Others find it too punishing for casual Destiny players or battle royale fans. Critical voices, like those summarized by Ethan Gach and Zack Zwiezen, suggest the game lacks a clear identity in a crowded genre.
One argument is that losing loot after death is too punishing, especially when there isn't enough other content to work towards. Matches can feel repetitive, with few memorable moments or exciting enemy encounters. Some players are even opting to avoid combat altogether, focusing on looting and extracting, raising questions about whether the game's looting system is truly engaging.
Adding fuel to the fire, an accidental early release to Xbox players resulted in a streamer showcasing an hour of gameplay before Bungie shut down the servers. While the stream provided a glimpse of the game's mechanics and visuals, it also highlighted concerns about its adherence to familiar extraction shooter tropes. Bungie clarified the early access was a technical error.
Despite a planned September 2023 release, Marathon's development hasn't been smooth sailing. Layoffs and allegations against the game's former director cast a shadow over the project. While Bungie eventually revealed gameplay footage, the lukewarm reception to the alpha has raised questions about the game's future. Some analysts even suggest a delay is possible, allowing Bungie to address key concerns and refine the game's identity.
It's important to remember that this is just a Closed Alpha, and Bungie has time to make changes before launch. However, the early decline in player interest serves as an early warning sign. Will Bungie be able to address these concerns and create an extraction shooter that stands out from the crowd? Only time will tell.
What are your thoughts on Marathon? Do you think it has the potential to succeed, or is it destined to be another forgotten extraction shooter? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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When is Marathon Alpha?
Bungie's new game, Marathon, kicks off its alpha test on April 23, but some people got to play it early--and they even streamed gameplay online for everyone to see. However, Bungie quickly caught on and shut things down.
What time does Marathon Closed Alpha start?
Marathon's closed alpha runs from April 23 to May 4, 2025. Players with access can test the game early, with more playtests expected before the full launch in September.
Is Marathon Alpha on Xbox?
Today's the day for the Marathon Closed Alpha on Xbox and other platforms, with the test kicking off for anyone lucky enough to receive an invite via the Marathon Discord server - and players have been sharing their initial reviews already.
When is Marathon open beta?
There will be an Open Beta likely in August, much closer to launch, where you will then be able to pre-order its various editions ahead of September 23 launch.
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