Marathon Server Slam Starts February 26 Ahead of Full Launch

Marathon is one of the most anticipated games this season, topping Steam’s paid charts as soon as preorders went live. Now, players finally get a chance to jump in early.

According to IGN, Bungie will host a Marathon “Server Slam” test from February 26 to March 2, 2026, giving fans a large-scale preview before launch.

Marathon Server Slam Kicks Off Today

The Server Slam acts as a stress test ahead of the full release on March 5, 2026. The game launches on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. Start times for the event are:

• PST: 10 AM (Feb 26)
• CST: 12 PM (Feb 26)
• EST: 1 PM (Feb 26)
• GMT: 6 PM (Feb 26)
• CET: 7 PM (Feb 26)
• JST / Beijing: 3 AM (Feb 27)
• AEST: 5 AM (Feb 27)
• NZST: 7 AM (Feb 27)

Bungie will use the event to test servers, anti-cheat systems, and gather player feedback before launch.

What Players Can Access During the Test

Marathon is a PvP extraction shooter set on Tau Ceti IV, where players take on the role of cybernetic mercenaries known as Runners exploring a lost colony.

During Server Slam, players can explore two zones: Perimeter and Dire Marsh. Early contracts will be available for five factions: CyberAcme, NuCaloric, Traxus, MIDA, and Arachne.

Five of the six launch Runner shells will be playable, along with the scavenger Rook experience. Players can run solo, squad up in crews, use proximity chat, and even form temporary alliances mid-match.

Progress Carries Launch Rewards

Progress made during the Server Slam unlocks rewards for the full release.

Completing the first mission grants the Standard Arrival Cache, which includes implants, cores, mods, and weapons.

Reaching Runner Level 10 unlocks the Enhanced Arrival Cache with upgraded gear.

Hitting Runner Level 30 unlocks the Deluxe Arrival Cache, featuring deluxe implants, advanced mods, additional weapons, and an enhanced backpack.

Platform-Exclusive Bonuses

Platform-specific rewards will also be available at launch as previously confirmed. PlayStation Plus users receive themed weapon charms inspired by Ghost of Yōtei, Death Stranding 2, and Helldivers 2.

Steam players get an exclusive Crowbar weapon charm. Xbox Series X|S players receive the Emerald Clutch and Emerald Catch charms.

With Marathon’s official launch just days away, the Server Slam offers one final opportunity for players to test the extraction shooter at scale before release.

In other gaming news, launch times for Resident Evil Requiem have now been revealed, so players should preload the game to ensure they can jump in the moment servers go live.