Is Bungie’s ‘Marathon’ Headed for Trouble? Key Warnings You Should Know!

I’m reflecting on my experience with Marathon, Bungie’s new extraction shooter in Closed Alpha. I’m not familiar with this genre, but I’ve had both ups and downs playing. However, I do have concerns about its future.

Here’s something to consider: I’m tracking the player count on Steam. While specific numbers aren’t crucial during Closed Alpha—many applications for codes are likely rejected—the trends tell a story. The game saw a peak of around 7,000 players at launch but quickly dropped to less than half just days later. By the end of the weekend, the number could be down to about a third of that launch count, and that’s troubling.

Interestingly, this decline is happening even as more players are getting access codes. If you’re eager enough to sign up for an Alpha, you likely have above-average interest. If even this group is losing interest so quickly, it raises questions about the game’s appeal.

Looking at Twitch data, there’s a similar story—the number of viewers has dipped significantly. While Twitch metrics can be volatile and depend on who is streaming, the overall player trend suggests something is off. Ideally, interest should hold steady or even grow as more players join.

I’m not saying Marathon is doomed after just 72 hours, but it’s not a positive sign if we take these trends seriously. This is still a Closed Alpha, and the final version may improve. Bungie has said they will add features, make balance adjustments, and polish the game before launch. Yet, the core elements of Marathon are set, and it’s uncertain whether they will capture wider player interest.

Interestingly, according to a recent survey by the game company, around 70% of players expressed a desire for unique gameplay experiences in extraction shooters, highlighting a demand for innovation in this genre. This expectation could shape how Marathon develops in the future.

In conclusion, while the Closed Alpha phase is just the beginning, current trends might illuminate larger challenges ahead. It’s essential for Bungie to keep players engaged and to ensure the final product resonates with both new and returning audiences.

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