Hours before its open preview weekend, Marathon is suddenly very close to the top of Steam's top sellers list
PC Gamer
by Rory Norris February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Marathon, Bungie’s highly anticipated game, has surged up Steam’s top sellers chart just hours before its open preview weekend, landing in third place in the US. Despite skepticism following divisive playtests and a rework after initial criticism, the game has gained momentum, with a significant jump of 58 places in the rankings. This rise is attributed to Bungie’s efforts in refining the game and a fresh marketing push, which has shifted the narrative in its favor ahead of its March 5 release.
The game’s success comes at a critical time for Bungie, as it looks to rebound from the challenges faced by *Destiny*. Marathon’s rework appears to have resonated with players, particularly with its new proximity chat feature and more accessible preview weekend access, which differs from traditional pre-order requirements. While the game features both PvE and PvP elements, its focus on competitive gameplay is expected to dominate, given the mixed reception of PvP in *Arc Raiders*, a key competitor.
This development matters for gaming enthusiasts as it marks a pivotal moment for Bungie, signaling whether its creative direction can resonate with fans and critics alike. The upcoming Server Slam event will be a crucial test of Marathon’s potential success, offering players a chance to experience the game’s extraction-focused gameplay firsthand. With pre-orders still open but cancellations possible, the outcome of this weekend could shape perceptions of Bungie’s future projects and its ability to recover from *Destiny*’s prolonged challenges.
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/26/2026