Marathon Expected to Launch by March 2026 as Bungie Moves Closer to PlayStation Studios Integration
Bungie’s upcoming extraction shooter Marathon is now expected to release by March 2026, marking the end of Sony’s current fiscal year. While this timeframe has not been officially locked in, Sony CFO Lin Tao confirmed during a Q&A session following the company’s latest financial report that Marathon’s sales were included in the fiscal forecast, indicating confidence that the title will launch within that window. As reported by VGC, Sony plans to announce a final release date by this Fall.
Alongside the release update, Lin Tao also addressed Bungie’s evolving role within Sony. When Sony first acquired Bungie, the Destiny 2 developer operated with a high degree of independence. However, that autonomy is now “getting lighter” as Bungie transitions into a more integrated part of PlayStation Studios. According to Tao, this shift is intentional, with the studio’s long-term direction being full incorporation into PlayStation Studios. The restructuring undertaken in 2024 was described as a key step in this process.
Marathon was originally set to release on September 23 but was delayed shortly after its reveal due to poor reception and controversies, including the use of an artist’s work without permission. Bungie has since dedicated the extra development time to significant improvements. Planned upgrades include more engaging AI encounters, expanded loot variety with dynamic in-game events, higher visual fidelity, richer narrative and environmental storytelling, and enhanced support for solo and duo players. The studio’s goal is to give Marathon a unique identity that was lacking during its initial reveal.
With Sony targeting a March 2026 launch window and Bungie deepening its integration into PlayStation Studios, Marathon could mark both a major release for Sony’s live service ambitions and a defining moment in Bungie’s post-acquisition era.
Do you think Bungie’s shift into PlayStation Studios will help Marathon succeed, or will it limit the studio’s creative freedom?
