Play For Just One Week During Season 2
Kotaku • • technology
Key Points:
- Bungie is launching a free "Open Play Week" for the sci-fi extraction shooter Marathon from June 2 to June 9, allowing players to access the full game on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S with progress carrying over into Season 2.
- During this trial period, players only need their console’s paid subscription for online multiplayer, while PC players can access it without additional fees.
- This initiative aims to attract new players and boost the game's declining player base, which has dropped from an initial peak of 80,000 concurrent players to around 10,000.
- Marathon previously had a limited free beta, but this new trial offers full game access and persistent progression, potentially improving player retention and engagement.
- Bungie and Sony acknowledge challenges with Marathon's performance and plan to enhance the game through new content and gameplay improvements to retain core users and expand the player base.