You should experience Marathon before the internet makes that choice for you.

      Marathon has evolved into one of those games where the discussion surrounding it often overshadows the actual gameplay. This new extraction shooter is backed by Bungie’s extensive development history and past issues tied to Destiny 2. Amidst rumors of layoffs following the conclusion of Destiny 2, some individuals have already concluded that Marathon embodies everything problematic about live-service gaming. However, many of these critiques come before some players have even had a chance to extract once.

      With Bungie's announcement of its first Open Play Week, it's an excellent opportunity for many to experience Marathon firsthand.

      Bungie / Bungie

      From June 2 to June 9, the game will be free to play on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, with progress transferring if players choose to purchase the full version later. This limited-time access coincides with the start of Season 2 of Marathon on June 2, during which Bungie will reset gameplay progression to ensure both new and returning players are on an equal footing.

      Don’t approach it like a ranked shooter

      As an extraction shooter, Marathon inherently includes some stress in its gameplay loop. You drop in, search for loot, confront AI enemies and other players, and ultimately attempt to escape successfully. While losing in a traditional competitive shooter can be disheartening, the loss feels more significant in an extraction shooter since you also forfeit your gear. Having your equipment and time taken away can be frustrating, and this hardcore format may deter some players—and that's understandable.

      Bungie

      Extraction shooters aren’t for everyone. However, Marathon becomes more engaging when you refrain from viewing it as a competitive shooter where every mistake must be meticulously scrutinized. The enjoyment lies in the chaos and the eventual success. Your objective isn’t merely to fight; the thrill comes from surviving. My recent encounter with Arc Raiders evoked a similar sensation.

      The sound of footsteps forces you to make crucial decisions about whether to engage or retreat. Just moments ago, you might have been searching for loot, and an unexpected noise could indicate a nearby player. “Gear fear” often prevents players from utilizing their best equipment, making the free week ideal. You can explore the game loop without feeling obligated for long-term commitment. Approach it with curiosity and without the anxiety of potential loss.

      Bungie

      Should the game captivate you with its blend of risk and reward, you free yourself from the pressure of worrying about winning or losing rank.

      Marathon exudes confidence right from the beginning

      Another significant reason to try Marathon is that it possesses a genuine identity. I cannot emphasize enough how visually appealing this game is. Graphics are crucial since they create your first impression of a game, but a unique art style is what differentiates you from others. And Marathon? It thrives on its aesthetics. This is not just another generic military shooter with some loot mechanics. It shares a genre with Hunt: Showdown and Arc Raiders but still offers its own distinct experience.

      Bungie

      Marathon is vibrant and highly stylized. Its visual design draws inspiration from the original Marathon while updating it to be sharper and more contemporary. This new installment in a previously dormant franchise showcases a retro-futurist amalgamation of bright colors, ASCII text, vintage web design, and 90s sci-fi influences.

      While mainstream games often rely on established formulas, Marathon takes the risk of being unconventional.

      A new beginning

      Bungie

      Season 2 also enhances accessibility for newcomers. It introduces a new Sentinel shell focused on defensive play, a nighttime Dire Marsh zone that exudes survival-horror vibes, fresh gear, and the Cradle progression system, allowing players to convert equipment into character growth independent of faction progression.

      None of this guarantees that Marathon will achieve long-term success. A free week won't magically resolve all concerns regarding Bungie's strategies, monetization, balance, or the game's future. However, it does provide players with a fresh experience before an online debate shapes their viewpoint. Give it a try because it’s complimentary, and remain only if it proves enjoyable. You might discover it becomes your next obsession.