As anticipation builds for the official launch of Marathon, the new team-based extraction shooter from Bungie, the creators of Destiny, a crucial beta event is set to unfold. The Marathon Server Slam offers players an exclusive preview of the game ahead of its full release, providing a weekend of intense action and valuable rewards.
Marathon Server Slam Dates and Timings
The Marathon Server Slam is scheduled to commence on February 26 and will run continuously throughout the entire weekend, concluding on March 2. This extended beta period allows gamers across different time zones to participate fully.
The event officially kicks off at 6:00 PM GMT, which translates to 10:00 AM PT and 1:00 PM ET for players in the United States. European participants can join in at 7:00 PM CET. This staggered timing ensures a smooth start for servers globally.
Platform Access and Requirements
The Server Slam will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms. Notably, unlike the full game, this beta weekend does not require a PlayStation Plus membership or an Xbox Game Pass subscription to play. This open access policy is designed to encourage maximum participation and stress-test the servers effectively.
However, it is important to note that pre-loading the Server Slam will not be available. Bungie has confirmed this decision, stating that it helps reduce initial server load when the event goes live. Pre-loading will only be enabled for the full game launch on March 5.
Marathon Server Slam Rewards Structure
While progress from the Server Slam will not carry over to the full game, participants can earn a variety of exclusive rewards that will be credited to their accounts upon the official launch. These rewards are tiered based on the player's Runner Level achieved during the beta.
Standard Arrival Cache
Unlocked by completing your first mission, this cache includes:
- Standard implants (6x)
- Standard Runner shell cores (4x)
- Standard weapon chip mods (6x)
- Weapons: Overrun and Hardline
Enhanced Arrival Cache (Green)
Awarded upon reaching Runner Level 10, this cache contains:
- Enhanced implants (6x)
- Enhanced Runner shell cores (2x for each shell, 12x total)
- Enhanced weapon chip mods (4x)
- Weapons: Enhanced Magnum and Enhanced Hardline
Deluxe Arrival Cache (Blue)
For those who achieve Runner Level 30, the rewards include:
- Deluxe and Enhanced implants (3x each, 6x total)
- Deluxe and Enhanced Runner shell cores (1x each for each shell, 12x total)
- Deluxe and Enhanced weapon chip mods (2x each, 4x total)
- Weapons: Deluxe Magnum and Enhanced Volley Rifle
- Backpack: Enhanced Base Backpack
Game Overview and Setting
Marathon is a first-person extraction shooter set in the derelict colony of Tau Ceti IV. The game features multiple distinct zones and factions, encouraging players to team up for missions and contracts while also competing against other explorers. Developed by Bungie, it represents a significant new entry in the team-based shooter genre, leveraging the studio's extensive experience from the Destiny franchise.
The Server Slam serves as a critical testing phase, allowing Bungie to gather data and optimize server performance before the full game goes live on March 5. Players are encouraged to dive in, explore the mechanics, and secure their rewards during this limited-time event.
