Summary
- Bungie confirmed plagiarism in Marathon after a former artist used Fern Hook’s artwork without credit.
- The controversy has triggered major backlash, with fans questioning the game’s viability just months before launch.
- Many now consider a delay inevitable, though some think it won’t be enough to save the game.
Bungie Under Fire Again for Art Theft in Marathon
With Marathon’s September launch looming, Bungie is once again facing turmoil—this time from confirmed plagiarism allegations. Developer Joe Ziegler and art director Joe Cross publicly addressed the issue in a tense livestream, admitting that a former Bungie artist lifted artwork by independent creator Fern Hook without permission or credit.
The team is now actively “scrubbing all assets,” leading to a livestream devoid of gameplay or art. The situation has severely damaged community trust and raised concerns about Marathon’s creative integrity and development leadership.
Plagiarism Fallout and Internal Chaos
While plagiarism alone is a serious charge, the broader implications have made things worse. Players and fans took to forums and Reddit to express frustration, some even suggesting the game is now “DOA.”
Forbes described the studio’s morale as in “free fall,” with some developers reportedly questioning if Bungie can recover at all. This is especially damaging as Marathon was meant to be Bungie’s next flagship project outside Destiny 2. Fans worry this controversy may now affect Destiny’s stability and result in layoffs and leadership restructuring.
Gameplay Struggles and Community Feedback
The plagiarism scandal follows mixed reception to the gameplay. Critics claim Marathon lacks the polish and satisfying gunplay expected from Bungie. The game’s attempt to blend casual and hardcore extraction shooter mechanics has pleased neither group, and its hero-based system has raised balance concerns.
Feedback from the Closed Alpha was overwhelmingly negative, especially compared to the ARC Raiders Alpha, which was considered far more engaging. Marathon’s Twitch numbers dropped drastically—from 150,000 viewers to just over 1,000 in a matter of days.
Can a Delay Save Marathon?
Despite growing pressure, Bungie has yet to announce a delay. However, many in the community believe that without one, the game will release in a broken state. A delay might buy time, but critics argue it won’t change the flawed core concept or erase the plagiarism scandal.
The upcoming launch is expected to offer little new content, with only two additional heroes and a couple of maps. Priced at $40, players are hesitant to commit, especially with no solo-friendly features and reliance on team coordination.
Will Bungie Survive This?
As Sony watches closely, comparisons to the failed Concord launch have resurfaced. Bungie’s $3.6 billion valuation under Sony is now under scrutiny, and Marathon’s future could determine the fate of Bungie itself.
Many believe Sony won’t pull the plug immediately, but rather allow Bungie to attempt a recovery. Still, even supporters admit that without major changes, Marathon’s launch could be disastrous.
