Summary
- Reports say Sony has cancelled all Marathon marketing plans.
- The game’s September release now faces possible delays amid negative press and internal morale issues.
- The situation follows a string of controversies, including artwork plagiarism and gameplay criticisms.
Sony Reportedly Scraps Marathon Marketing Plans
Bungie’s highly anticipated live-service game, Marathon, is facing fresh challenges. According to a new report shared on the Sacred Symbols+ podcast, Sony has canceled all planned paid marketing for the title. Colin Moriarty revealed that sources from key overseas markets confirmed the cancellation, noting how unusual this is for a game of Marathon’s profile.
The decision comes after several controversies, including accusations of art theft and widespread criticism of the game’s early gameplay reveals.
Mounting Issues and Possible Delays
The negative attention surrounding Marathon has been building for weeks. From Bungie admitting to stolen assets used in the game’s alpha to the mixed reception of its extraction shooter mechanics, the project has struggled to maintain player enthusiasm.
Internal morale at Bungie is reportedly low, with reports describing the work atmosphere as “actively hostile.” Originally slated for release on September 23, 2025, the game’s launch is now under question, with speculation rising that Sony and Bungie might delay it to regroup and rebuild trust.
What’s Next for Marathon?
While Sony has yet to make any formal announcements, the cancellation of Marathon marketing campaigns suggests a major shift in strategy. Previously planned trailers, preorder launches, and promotions may be postponed or overhauled.
With Sony’s live-service push under increasing scrutiny—especially after the failure of Concord—Marathon’s performance has become even more critical for the company’s roadmap. Fans will need to wait for official word to see if a delay will be confirmed.
