Arc Raiders Is Feeling The Heat From Marathon
Kotaku
by Ethan GachFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Arc Raiders, a popular multiplayer game, is facing growing competition from Marathon, a long-running series known for its intense gameplay and passionate community. While Arc Raiders has gained attention for its unique take on battle royale mechanics, it’s struggling to make an impact against Marathon, which has maintained a loyal player base since its release in the early 2000s. Developers of Arc Raiders have acknowledged the challenges, emphasizing their commitment to balancing creativity with player expectations. Meanwhile, Activision, the parent company of Call of Duty, has dismissed rumors about a new standalone Zombies game, calling them “fiction.” This denial comes amid speculation that fans are eagerly awaiting a return to the popular zombie survival mode, which has been a staple in past Call of Duty titles.
The gaming community’s response to these developments highlights the importance of timing and marketing in the competitive world of online gaming. Arc Raiders’ creators have faced criticism for its lackluster performance compared to Marathon, with players pointing out issues like server instability and limited content updates. Despite this, the team behind Arc Raiders remains optimistic, promising to address feedback and refine the game further. On the other hand, Activision’s decision to quash rumors about a new Zombies title has sparked mixed reactions. While some fans are disappointed, others argue that the franchise should focus on delivering quality over quantity.
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Originally published on Kotaku on 2/24/2026