The Marathon Server Slam is a limited-time open preview weekend that lets players test Bungie’s new extraction shooter before launch. You do not need to pre-order the game. You can download it free and jump in.
What Is the Marathon Server Slam?
The Marathon Server Slam is an open-beta style stress test before full launch.
- Start: February 26 at 10:00 AM PT
- End: March 2 at 10:00 AM PT
- Full Release: March 5, 2026
Bungie uses this test to push servers under heavy load and collect feedback before launch .
You can experience:
- Two infil zones
- Five factions
- Contracts
- Five Runner shells
- Crossplay and cross-save
How to Download Marathon Server Slam
You do not need to buy the game.
On PC (Steam)
- Open Steam
- Search Marathon Server Slam
- Click download
- Install and launch
On PS5 / PS5 Pro
- Open PlayStation Store
- Search Marathon Server Slam
- Download the preview
On Xbox Series X|S
- Open Microsoft Store
- Search Marathon Server Slam
- Install the free preview
The Server Slam is available worldwide .
Will Progress Carry Over?
No. Progress will not carry over to launch .
However, Bungie rewards players with tiered launch rewards based on Server Slam progress. Rewards arrive through the in-game mailbox after launch.
If rewards do not appear immediately, Bungie may take time to distribute them .
All Marathon Server Slam Rewards
Complete Your First Mission
Unlock: Standard Arrival Cache
| Category | Rewards |
|---|---|
| Implants | 2 Head, 2 Legs, 2 Torso (Standard) |
| Runner Cores | 4 Standard |
| Weapon Mods | 6 Standard Chip Mods |
| Weapons | Standard Overrun, Standard Hardline |
Reach Runner Level 10
Unlock: Enhanced Arrival Cache (Green)
| Category | Rewards |
|---|---|
| Implants | 2 Head, 2 Legs, 2 Torso (Enhanced) |
| Runner Cores | 2 per Shell (12 total) |
| Weapon Mods | 4 Enhanced Chip Mods |
| Weapons | Enhanced Magnum, Enhanced Hardline |
Reach Runner Level 30
Unlock: Deluxe Arrival Cache (Blue)
| Category | Rewards |
|---|---|
| Implants | Deluxe + Enhanced sets |
| Runner Cores | 1 Deluxe + 1 Enhanced per Shell |
| Weapon Mods | 2 Deluxe + 2 Enhanced |
| Weapons | Deluxe Magnum, Enhanced Volley Rifle |
| Backpack | Enhanced Base Backpack |
Can You Use Pre-Order Bonuses?
No. Pre-order bonuses unlock at full launch on March 5, 2026 .
Marathon Server Slam System Requirements (PC)
Minimum Requirements
- Windows 10 64-bit
- Intel i5-6600 / Ryzen 5 2600
- 8 GB RAM
- GTX 1050 Ti / RX 5500 XT / Intel Arc A580
- DirectX 12
- Broadband internet
Recommended Requirements
- Windows 10 64-bit
- Intel i5-10400 / Ryzen 5 3500
- 16 GB RAM
- RTX 2060 / RX 5700 XT / Intel Arc A770
- DirectX 12
- Broadband internet
How to Enable Proximity Chat
When you first launch the game, you can enable or disable proximity chat.
To change it later:
Settings → Social → Enable/Disable Prox Chat
Important details :
- Proximity chat requires Push-to-Talk
- Keyboard key: Y
- Controller: Left D-pad
- Team chat uses a separate key (T on keyboard)
- Enemy proximity chat shows on HUD
How to Access Scavenger Mode (Rook)
To use Rook :
- Go to Shell selection
- Select the Rook frame
- Requires Runner Level 3
Important restrictions:
- Rook works solo only
- You cannot queue in a crew
- Contracts are disabled
- Inventory locks to Rook loadout
How to Customize Shells
Go to:
Lobby → Loadout → Customize tab
Some styles are available. Changing shells may revert the selected style .
Is Marathon Server Slam Worth Playing?
Yes — especially if you:
- Want early hands-on gameplay
- Care about launch rewards
- Want to test builds before release
- Plan to play at launch
You lose nothing. You gain loot for launch. You help stress test servers. You learn maps early.
For competitive players, that early knowledge matters.
The Marathon Server Slam is not just a beta. It is a progression-based preview with launch rewards attached. It runs for four days. It supports crossplay. It costs nothing.
If you plan to play Marathon at launch, you should not skip this event.
