The dust swirled around your boots as you navigated the abandoned dig site, the silence broken only by the crackle of your comms. A cryptic message flashed across your visor: “Marathon imminent.” Suddenly, the race to secure the rarest resources on Tau Ceti IV just became a whole lot more interesting—and expensive. Let’s break down what you need to know before you drop.
Marathon: What Does it Cost to Run?
I remember the days when dropping $50 on a game felt like a major decision. Bungie aims to bring Marathon to players at a standard edition price of $39.99 (€37), a move that’s getting attention, particularly within the extraction shooter genre. Some see this lower barrier to entry as a way to encourage squad play, while others believe it’s a strategic move to discourage cheaters by introducing a paywall.
All Marathon Editions
Choosing the right edition can feel like deciphering an alien language. Marathon offers three distinct options: Standard, Deluxe, and Collector’s Edition. Think of it like choosing between a reliable sidearm and a fully kitted-out arsenal.
Standard Edition – $39.99 (€37)
- Base Game
- 7x Runner Shells
- Access to all future updates.
Deluxe Edition – $59.99 (€55)
- Base Game
- “Midnight Decay” Cosmetic Set: A stylized skin bundle for 4 of the Runner classes (Thief, Vandal, Destroyer, Assassin) as well as certain weapons (Misriah 2442 Pump Shotgun and Overrun AR).
- Premium Season Pass Voucher: Unlocks the premium track for Season 1.
- 200 SILK: The game’s premium currency.
Collector’s Edition – $229.99 (€212)
- All Deluxe Edition digital content.
- 1/6 Scale Thief Runner Statue: Produced by PureArts, detailing the “Sekiguchi Genetics” shell-weaving aesthetic.
- WEAVEworm Miniature: A physical replica of the in-game parasitic tech.
- SteelBook Case.
- Lore Goods: Postcards from Tau Ceti IV and an embroidered faction patch.
- Availability: Exclusively sold via the Bungie Store.
Marathon Pre-Order Bonuses
Pre-ordering isn’t just about getting the game early; it’s about the bragging rights that come with exclusive gear. Here’s what you can score by committing early.
Marathon Bonuses
- ZERO STEP 004 CE Tactical Sidearm Style
- ZERO STEP RC Weapon Charm
- ZERO STEP SHIFT Weapon Sticker
- APOGEE INTERCEPT Background
- APOGEE INTERCEPT Emblem
Destiny 2 Bonuses
- UESC Echo-type Shell Exotic Ghost
- UESC Rover Exotic Ship
- UESC Sprinter Exotic Sparrow
What happens if I miss the pre-order window?
FOMO is real. The pre-order bonuses for Marathon are only available until March 17, 2026. After that, they disappear, possibly forever. This creates a limited-time incentive for players to purchase the game early to secure exclusive cosmetic items.
Will the Standard Edition get me everything I need?
The Standard Edition provides the core Marathon experience, but you’ll miss out on the exclusive cosmetics, premium season pass, and in-game currency included in the Deluxe Edition. It’s like choosing between a standard toolbox and one loaded with specialized attachments.
Can I upgrade to the Collector’s Edition later?
Upgrading from the Standard or Deluxe Edition to the Collector’s Edition later might not be possible, especially since the Collector’s Edition is exclusively sold through the Bungie Store and likely has limited production runs. Planning ahead could save you from disappointment—and inflated prices on the secondary market.
The choices are laid out. The question is, how far are you willing to go to stake your claim on Tau Ceti IV, and will these pre-order incentives actually sway your decision?