The controller slipped in my sweaty palms as I watched the countdown timer tick to zero. Anticipation hung thick in the air. Would this new extraction shooter from Bungie—the studio behind Destiny—live up to the hype, or fade into obscurity like so many others? With the release date finally set, a taste of what’s to come is right around the corner with the Marathon Open Beta.
Before plunking down your hard-earned money, wouldn’t you like to kick the tires first? Here’s your chance to experience Marathon without spending a dime. Let’s examine the details of the upcoming Open Beta playtest.
Marathon Open Beta: When Can You Play?
Remember those childhood Christmases where the anticipation felt almost unbearable? The Marathon Open Beta Playtest is expected sometime in mid-February 2026. While Bungie hasn’t nailed down the precise date, the full game launch on March 5, 2026, makes February the likely window. Expect a full weekend of access across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Will Marathon be free to play?
The Open Beta is your no-cost entry point. While the full game will require a purchase, this playtest is a completely free sneak peek. Think of it as Bungie’s way of saying, “Try before you buy.”
Joining the Marathon Open Beta: Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It
Getting into the Marathon Open Beta is simple: download the client when it becomes available. Unlike previous Alpha tests, no invite or special code is needed. Here’s the plan of attack:
- Head to your platform’s store of choice (PlayStation Store, Xbox Store, or Steam) and add Marathon to your wishlist. This will (hopefully) trigger a notification when the beta client is ready to download.
- Keep an eye out for the pre-load window, which Bungie typically opens 24-48 hours before the servers go live. Get the game downloaded and ready to go.
- Launch the beta client once the playtest officially begins.
During the playtest, you’ll have complete access to Marathon. No purchase or pre-order is necessary. Just remember, your progress won’t carry over to the full game.
What platforms will support the Marathon Open Beta?
Bungie is opening the doors wide. The Open Beta will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Whatever your platform of choice, you’re invited to the party. The gaming landscape is a tapestry, and Marathon aims to weave itself into the pattern on every major platform.
Will Marathon Beta playtest feature cross-play?
Yes, the Beta playtest will feature cross-play, allowing you and your friends to take part in it together, regardless of the platform.
The Open Beta is your chance to influence the final product. Your feedback, your play style, your very presence shapes the game to come. Will you be dropping into the Open Beta when it arrives, or are you waiting for the full release to form an opinion?