The marathon server slam is a free open preview event for the Marathon game organized by Bungie. The marathon server slam runs from February 26 to March 2, 2026 (5 days), and is open to all players on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC — with no subscription needed. During the marathon server slam, players can access 2 maps, 5 Runner shells, faction contracts, and earn exclusive permanent cosmetics.
The marathon server slam is an official open preview event organized by Bungie ahead of the Marathon game's full launch on March 5, 2026. The primary purpose of the marathon server slam is to stress-test the game's global server infrastructure by having as many players as possible connect simultaneously.
Unlike closed betas that require invite codes or pre-purchase access, the marathon server slam is entirely free and open to everyone on every supported platform — PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam. There is no need for PlayStation Plus, Xbox Game Pass, or any subscription to join the marathon server slam.
The marathon server slam is also Bungie's opportunity to test anti-cheat systems at scale, ensuring competitive fairness at full global player capacity before the marathon game officially launches.
In the marathon server slam, players experience a substantial preview of the full game — two complete maps, five runner shells with full ability trees, five faction contracts, and an authentic extraction shooter experience. The marathon server slam is the best way to understand the marathon game before committing to a purchase.
Understanding exactly what the marathon server slam is — and what it isn't
A substantial preview of the full marathon game — here's exactly what you can access during the marathon server slam
Progress doesn't carry over from the marathon server slam — but your exclusive cosmetic rewards do. Earn them during the event, keep them forever at full launch.
Runner progression, loot, and gear earned during the marathon server slam will not transfer to the full game. However, the exclusive marathon server slam cosmetic rewards — the emblem, player background, and gear packages — will be permanently added to your Bungie account when Marathon officially launches on March 5, 2026.
An exclusive marathon server slam participant emblem for your Runner profile. Only available to players who participated in the Feb 26 – Mar 2 server slam window.
A permanent marathon server slam player background — a badge of honor that marks you as an early marathon game veteran when the full game launches.
Exclusive gear packages that activate when the full marathon game launches — giving marathon server slam players a head start with additional equipment.
Get into the marathon server slam in six steps — works on PS5, Xbox, and PC
Navigate to Steam, the PlayStation Store, or the Xbox Store and download the Marathon game client during the server slam window. The marathon server slam download is completely free — no purchase required.
A free Bungie account is required to play the marathon server slam. Create one at bungie.net or sign in with an existing account. This links your marathon server slam identity across all platforms.
Open the marathon game during the server slam window and select from five available Runner shells. New to extraction games? The marathon server slam is a perfect introduction — start with Rook.
Choose Perimeter or Dire Marsh as your landing zone. Squad up with friends or drop solo. Your objective in the marathon server slam is to scavenge loot and reach the extraction point alive.
Find faction contact points inside the marathon server slam maps to unlock contracts. Completing contracts and reaching Runner Level milestones unlocks exclusive Marathon Server Slam cosmetic rewards.
Survive the zone, defeat or evade rival Runners and UESC forces, reach the extraction point, and call for extraction. Successfully extracting in the marathon server slam lets you keep your run's loot.
Commonly asked questions about the marathon server slam answered with verified information