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Steam hype before launch: New extraction shooter starts free “Server Slam” and surpasses Arc Raiders

Bungie’s new extraction shooter Marathon is scheduled for release on March 5, 2026.
ⓘ Bungie via Steam
Bungie’s new extraction shooter Marathon is scheduled for release on March 5, 2026.
Bungie’s new extraction shooter Marathon, set to launch on March 5 and already available for pre-order, is currently the third best-selling game on Steam in the United States. From February 28, players can try the game for free during the final test phase – the “Server Slam” – which grants several days of open access.

With Marathon, Bungie is launching a PvP extraction shooter that combines high-risk raids with hero-style abilities – together with the studio’s trademark precise gunplay. Players step into the role of so-called Runners on the planet Tau Ceti IV, where the objective is to gather valuable loot and escape alive.

Interest in Marathon is especially strong in the United States, where the game is currently the third best-selling title on Steam – two places ahead of Arc Raiders.

It is worth noting that the strong Steam ranking is largely driven by the upcoming launch and does not necessarily indicate long-term success – even though a top three spot clearly signals above-average sales. For fans of the genre, Marathon is shaping up to be a promising new release.

“Server Slam” offers free trial access

Shortly before release, Bungie is offering players another opportunity to try the new extraction shooter free of charge. The “Server Slam” runs from February 28 to March 2 and is designed to gather final community feedback while also putting servers and matchmaking under heavy load.

In terms of pricing, the title is in a similar range to Embark’s Arc Raiders. Marathon costs around $40 and is already available for pre-order, while the Deluxe Edition with various cosmetic extras is priced at about $60. One downside for handheld players: unlike Arc Raiders, Marathon is currently listed as “Not supported” on Steam Deck.

Source(s)

Steam

Image source: GameRiot via YouTube

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2026 02 > Steam hype before launch: New extraction shooter starts free “Server Slam” and surpasses Arc Raiders
Marius Müller, 2026-02-27 (Update: 2026-02-27)