Marathon Cross Play, Cross Progression & Solo Play
Yes, Marathon supports cross play, cross progression, and solo play. Cross play and cross progression are available across all platforms, and while the game is designed as a multiplayer extraction shooter, you can play it solo against other players or with bots.
What Is Marathon?
Marathon is a science-fiction extraction shooter developed by Bungie, the studio behind Destiny and Halo. It is a revival of the classic Marathon trilogy from the 1990s, but it is not a remake. The game is set in the same universe, featuring the AI construct known as UESC Marathon, but it takes place in a new timeline with new characters and a new story. Players take on the role of a cybernetic runner who explores the Tau Ceti system, recovering valuable artifacts and fighting other runners for loot.
Cross Play and Cross Progression Explained
Marathon supports full cross play, meaning players on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S can play together in the same matches. Cross progression is also fully supported, so your character, gear, and progress carry over across all platforms. This means you can start playing on PC, then switch to your console, and your inventory and account will be exactly where you left it. This is a standard feature for modern live-service games, and Bungie has confirmed it will be available at launch.
How to Play Solo in Marathon
While Marathon is primarily a multiplayer game, you can play it solo. The game features a solo mode where you can enter the extraction zone by yourself, without a squad. You will face other players, but matchmaking will put you into lobbies with other solo players if you choose the solo queue. Alternatively, you can play against AI-controlled bots in a private match, which is a great way to learn the maps and mechanics without the pressure of PvP. However, some activities, like certain high-tier raids or dungeons, may require a full team, so solo play is not available for every single activity.
How to Enable Cross Play and Cross Progression
Cross play and cross progression are enabled by default in Marathon. You do not need to toggle anything on. To use cross progression, you must link your platform accounts to a single Bungie account. This is done on the Bungie website or in the game’s settings menu. Once linked, your progression is shared across all linked platforms. For cross play, matchmaking will automatically put you in lobbies with players from all platforms. If you want to play with friends on other platforms, you can add them via their Bungie name and invite them to your party.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
- Cross progression not working: Make sure you have linked all your platform accounts to the same Bungie account. If you have multiple Bungie accounts, you may need to merge them.
- Can’t join friends on other platforms: Ensure you are using the correct Bungie name, not your platform username. Also, check that your party privacy settings are set to “open” or “friends only”.
- Solo queue not available: The solo queue may be limited to certain playlists or times. If you don’t see it, try switching to a different game mode or check for updates.
Marathon vs. Other Extraction Shooters
Marathon is often compared to games like Escape from Tarkov, Hunt: Showdown, and the more recent Delta Force. Unlike Tarkov, Marathon is more accessible, with a lower learning curve and a more arcade-like feel. It also has a stronger sci-fi identity, with abilities and gadgets that resemble Destiny’s subclasses. Compared to Hunt, Marathon is faster-paced and focuses on gunplay over stealth. In terms of solo play, Marathon offers a more forgiving experience than Tarkov, where solo players are often at a severe disadvantage.
Cost and Platforms
Marathon is free-to-play, so there is no upfront cost to buy the game. It is available on PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game will feature a premium battle pass and cosmetic microtransactions, but these are optional and do not affect gameplay. There is no subscription fee to play online, but you will need a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core subscription on consoles for online multiplayer, which is standard for console gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Marathon have cross play between PC and console?
Yes, cross play is fully supported between PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. You can play with friends on any platform, and matchmaking will mix players from all platforms.
Is Marathon cross progression between all platforms?
Yes, cross progression is supported. Your character, gear, and progression are tied to your Bungie account, and you can access them on any platform you link.
Can I play Marathon solo without other players?
Yes, you can play solo. You can queue into a solo-only matchmaking pool, or you can play against AI bots in a private match. However, some end-game activities may require a full squad.
Do I need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass to play Marathon?
Yes, to play online multiplayer on consoles, you need an active subscription to PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core. This is not required on PC.
Is Marathon free to play?
Yes, Marathon is free-to-play. There is no upfront cost, but there are optional microtransactions for cosmetics and a battle pass.
Will my progress transfer from the beta to the full game?
Typically, beta progress is wiped before launch. However, Bungie has not announced whether any beta rewards will carry over. It is best to assume that beta progress will not transfer.
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