Marathon season 2: what to expect and free play week

Bungie's extraction shooter Marathon has announced its second season, which kicks off on June 2, 2026. This season brings new gameplay elements, including a free play week running from June 2 to 9. PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC players can try the full game for free during this period, and any progress they make will carry over into season 2.

What's new in season 2?

Marathon season 2 introduces the Night Marsh map, a reworked version of the existing Dire Marsh map. The biggest change to this new environment is that it now takes place at night, making the experience more intense and challenging. With the darkness come new mechanics and enemies, forcing players to be even more strategic to survive.

The season also leans into survival horror elements and is set on the fictional planet Tau Ceti IV. New gear such as flashlights, grenades, and Darksight scopes help players navigate the darkness and identify enemies.

New playstyle and features

Alongside the new map, Bungie is introducing the Sentinel class, the first new Runner Shell since the game's launch. This class is built for defensive play and includes an ability that destroys incoming grenades and rockets. Two new weapons are also being added: the KKV-9SD SMG and the D54 Battle Pistol, both of which should improve the experience in PvE and PvP matches.

Bungie is also introducing the Cradle progression system, which lets players turn unwanted loot into stat boosts, adding a new layer to Marathon's progression.

Timeline

May 26, 2026: Marathon actor Elias Toufexis speaks out against online hate and calls for constructive dialogue.
May 27, 2026: The season 2 cinematic trailer is released, clearly highlighting the game's darker tone.
May 27, 2026: Bungie announces that Marathon will be free to play from June 2 to 9 as part of the season 2 promotion.
June 2, 2026: Marathon season 2 launches with the new Night Marsh map and Sentinel class.

Player reaction and future plans

The season 2 announcement comes at a challenging time for Bungie, given the decision to end support for Destiny 2, their previously successful franchise. Bungie appears to be focusing fully on Marathon and hopes to attract new players through this free play week and its PvE content.

Playtesters and current players have generally responded positively to the new direction Marathon is taking. The mix of survival horror and extraction shooter gameplay creates a unique experience that raises the stakes for both new and veteran players.

With Destiny 2's lifecycle winding down, Bungie now has the opportunity to develop Marathon into the core of its future strategy.