Bungie’s extraction shooter Marathon has made a significant impact since its release, with Xbox Series X, PC, and PlayStation 5 players diving into its eerie, competitive world. According to reviewer Travis Northup, the game stands out for being “unapproachable, unforgiving, and offputtingly creepy,” all while delivering an experience that sets it apart as a premier title in the genre. Here’s what makes Marathon an exceptional PvP experience, as well as what could use improvement.

A dark and brutal world

One of Marathon’s defining features is its unapologetically high barrier to entry. Rather than aiming for broad accessibility, Bungie has created an experience described as “unapproachable” with a community of players who take no prisoners. This brutal environment may deter casual players, but it serves as fertile ground for those looking to master its ruthless gameplay. The game’s unsettling atmosphere only adds to the intensity of matches, crafting an experience that draws players in for reasons beyond simple competition.

Gunplay and progression that deliver

As expected from Bungie, a studio renowned for its Halo and Destiny games, Marathon excels where it matters most: gunplay. According to Northup, the game’s gun mechanics deliver everything players would hope for, creating satisfying and dynamic combat scenarios. But what truly elevates Marathon is its progression system. Loot acquisition and advancement are described as utterly captivating, encouraging players to keep pushing forward despite the game’s difficulty curve.

The maps are another highlight, offering enough variety and surprises to remain engaging even after dozens of hours. Exploration and strategy play a critical role, and Bungie has managed to create environments that complement Marathon’s gameplay loop, balancing complexity with learnability.

Lore and the endgame factor

For players who enjoy digging deeper into the fiction of a game, Marathon delivers on its promise of unsettling lore. Northup notes that the process of uncovering the story tucked inside this eerie world is well worth the investment. Combined with compelling endgame activities, the game provides a steady stream of incentives for dedicated players to stick around and keep grinding.

Where it falls short

While Marathon excels in many areas, it’s not without flaws. Accessibility is a noted issue, with onboarding and UI criticized as “awful.” This could present significant challenges for newcomers looking to understand the game’s systems and mechanics. Balancing is another area with room for improvement. Though the gameplay is strong, some elements of the meta would benefit from adjustments to create a more diverse and competitive environment. Additionally, the need for more maps is already evident, suggesting that ongoing content updates will play a vital role in keeping the experience fresh.

Why it matters

Marathon has carved out a significant place within the extraction shooter genre by embracing its intimidating nature, niche appeal, and Bungie’s trademark quality in combat design. With a playerbase ready to engage in its high-stakes world, and a game design that encourages mastery and dedication, Marathon is positioned to become a long-term success, provided Bungie continues to refine and expand its offerings. Serious players who thrive on PvP intensity and strategic play will find much to love here.

Whether Bungie can address its shortcomings and maintain the momentum remains to be seen, but what’s clear is that Marathon has already left its mark as one of the most intriguing multiplayer experiences available today.