Marathon

Marathon is a newly released, PvP-focused extraction shooter where you play as a cybernetic mercenary, a Runner, dropped onto the mysterious planet Tau Ceti IV. Your objective is to venture into the ruins of a lost colony, solo or with a crew of up to three, to secure alien artifacts, valuable loot, and new gear, all while fighting off other players. The core loop demands successful extraction to keep what you find, making survival essential for progression on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S.

This is a competitive, player-versus-player focused extraction shooter, newly released on March 5, 2026, for PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), and Xbox Series X|S. The core experience plunges players into the hostile, mysterious world of Tau Ceti IV, where they assume the role of a Runner—a specialized cybernetic mercenary equipped for survival in extreme conditions. The central objective revolves around venturing onto the planet's surface to explore the ruins of a lost colony, seeking out valuable artifacts, rare loot, and powerful new weaponry and gear to add to their personal collection.

The Premise: A Lost Colony and Lingering Mysteries

The setting is defined by an unsettling atmosphere: a massive, derelict ghost ship hangs in low orbit above a colony whose 30,000 inhabitants have vanished without a trace. Strange transmissions hint at rumors of untold riches, long-dormant artificial intelligence systems, and powerful alien artifacts scattered across the desolate landscape. As a Runner, players are tasked with descending into this unknown environment to uncover these secrets, fighting for survival, wealth, and notoriety.

Core Gameplay Loop: Extraction and Survival

The gameplay centers on high-stakes incursions into contested zones. Players can choose to operate solo or coordinate efforts within crews of up to three Runners. Success hinges on navigating the dangerous environment, securing valuable assets, and successfully extracting them from the planet before being eliminated by hostile forces or other competing Runners. The loop emphasizes risk versus reward, as the gear and loot acquired during a successful run are what players carry forward.

What defines the experience in this extraction shooter?

The unique appeal lies in the combination of intense PvP encounters within a persistent loot environment. Players must manage their loadout before deployment, knowing that every piece of equipment is on the line during the mission. Survival is paramount, as failure to extract means losing everything carried into the zone. The cybernetic nature of the Runners suggests a focus on specialized capabilities designed to handle the planet's harsh realities and the threats lurking within the ruins.

Gear and Progression

A significant element of the game involves the acquisition and utilization of new weapons and equipment found on Tau Ceti IV. Players build their capabilities by successfully extracting these materials, which directly influences their readiness for subsequent, more challenging incursions.