Gemini said Runners, Assemble: Bungie’s Marathon "Server Slam" Starts February 26!
Bungie is officially ready to stress-test the servers for their upcoming extraction shooter, and they want you to help break them. During the State of Play, the team behind Destiny and Halo announced the Marathon Server Slam, an open preview weekend running from February 26 to March 2.
This is your first real chance to step into the bio-cybernetic "Shell" of a Runner and explore the lost colony of Tau Ceti IV before the game's full launch on March 5, 2026.
What to Expect in the Server Slam
The Server Slam is designed as a "horizontal slice" of the game. You will have access to:
- Two Zones: Explore the industrial Perimeter and the overgrown, eerie Dire Marsh.
- Runner Shells: Try out all six launch-day Shells, plus the Rook scavenger mode for a different perspective on the grind.
- Factions & Contracts: Start building your reputation with five of the warring factions on Tau Ceti IV.
- Proximity Chat: Form "uneasy alliances" with rival Runners... or just use it to talk your way out of a firefight.
Exclusive PlayStation Plus Loot
If you are playing on PS5 with an active PS Plus subscription, Bungie is throwing in some high-profile cameos. You can earn three unique weapon charms inspired by other PlayStation legends:
- Helldivers 2: "For Freedom" Weapon Charm.
- Death Stranding 2: "Battle Guitar" Weapon Charm.
- Ghost of Yōtei: "Onryō" Weapon Charm.
Pre-Order Rewards & Collector’s Edition
If you’re already sold on the Tau Ceti grind, pre-orders are live now with some significant "Bungie-verse" crossover rewards.
Standard & Deluxe Rewards
Pre-ordering any edition ($39.99 for Standard) gets you the Zero Step cosmetic bundle for Marathon. Plus, if your Bungie.net account is linked, you’ll instantly unlock the UESC Marathon Pack in Destiny 2, which includes an Exotic Ghost Shell, Ship, and Sparrow.
The Collector’s Edition ($229.99)
For the ultimate fan, the Collector’s Edition is a premium physical unboxing experience that includes the following:
- 1/6-Scale Thief Statue: Features LED lights and incredible detail.
- Collectible WEAVEworm: A miniature replica from the shell-weaving process.
- Physical Artifacts: An embroidered patch, art postcards, and a lenticular poster.
- Exclusive Digital Items: The "Zero Step" emblem and player background.
