The launch of Marathon is getting closer, and before it officially releases, players can jump into a special limited-time event called the Server Slam. If you’ve been waiting to see how this new extraction shooter feels in action, this is your chance to try it yourself without paying upfront. Server Slam is more than a short demo. It’s a large-scale open test that gives access to core gameplay systems, multiple maps, classes, and launch rewards you can unlock ahead of release.
What Is the Marathon Server Slam?
Marathon is the upcoming extraction shooter from Bungie, the studio behind Destiny 2. With Server Slam, Bungie is stress-testing its servers while allowing as many players as possible to experience the game before launch. The format is similar to the pre-launch test held for Diablo 4. It’s essentially the final open beta before the full game goes live.
How to Play Marathon Server Slam
The Server Slam is completely free. You do not need to pre-order the game or request a code. It will be available on:
- PC (Steam)
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X/S
Once the event goes live, simply download the client and log in using your Bungie account. The game supports:
- Cross-play across platforms
- Cross-save if you want to switch between systems
This makes it easy to test the game wherever you prefer to play.
Marathon Server Slam Start and End Date
The Server Slam runs for four days:
- Start: February 26
- End: March 2
- Official Launch: March 5 (full purchase required)
The event begins and ends at the same time globally:
- 10am PT
- 1pm ET
- 6pm GMT
- 7pm CET
- 10pm GST
- 5am AEDT (February 27)
After March 2, servers will go offline briefly to prepare for the official launch.
Marathon Server Slam Content
This is the most complete version of the beta so far. Players can experience the full extraction shooter gameplay loop, including:
- Solo or co-op play
- Class selection (Runner Shells)
- PvPvE combat
- Proximity voice chat
- Extraction mechanics
- Base loot management
Available Maps (Zones)
- Perimeter
- Dire Marsh
Runner Shells (Classes)
- Destroyer
- Assassin
- Recon
- Vandal
- Triage
- Rook (Scavenger with a free loadout)
Available Factions
- CyberAcme
- NuCaloric
- Traxus
- MIDA
- Arachne
Early-level progression and faction reputation skill trees will also be accessible during the event.
All Marathon Server Slam Rewards
While your progress will not carry over to launch, any rewards earned during Server Slam will be delivered when the full game releases — provided you purchase it.
Complete Your First Mission
Unlock the Standard Arrival Cache:
- 6 Standard Implants
- 4 Standard Runner Shell Cores
- 6 Standard Weapon Chip Mods
- Weapons: Overrun and Hardline
Reach Runner Level 10
Unlock the Enhanced Arrival Cache (Green):
- 6 Enhanced Implants
- 12 Enhanced Shell Cores (2 per shell)
- 4 Enhanced Weapon Chip Mods
- Weapons: Enhanced Magnum and Enhanced Hardline
Reach Runner Level 30
Unlock the Deluxe Arrival Cache (Blue):
- 6 Implants (3 Deluxe + 3 Enhanced)
- 12 Shell Cores (1 Deluxe + 1 Enhanced per shell)
- 4 Weapon Mods (2 Deluxe + 2 Enhanced)
- Weapons: Deluxe Magnum and Enhanced Volley Rifle
- Deluxe Base Backpack
The more time you invest during Server Slam, the better your launch bonuses will be.
Marathon PC System Requirements
Like Destiny 2, Marathon has relatively accessible PC requirements.
Minimum Specs
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core i5-6600 / AMD Ryzen 5 2600
- RAM: 8GB
- GPU: GTX 1050 Ti (4GB) / RX 5500 XT (4GB) / Intel Arc A580 (8GB with ReBAR)
- DirectX 12
Recommended Specs
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- CPU: Intel Core i5-10400 / AMD Ryzen 5 3500
- RAM: 16GB
- GPU: RTX 2060 (6GB) / RX 5700 XT (8GB) / Intel Arc A770 (16GB with ReBAR)
- DirectX 12
Most mid-range gaming PCs should be able to run the game smoothly.
Marathon Server Slam is your best opportunity to test the full extraction shooter experience before launch. With two maps, multiple classes, faction systems, and exclusive rewards available, it offers far more than a basic demo. If you’re curious about Bungie’s next big project after Destiny 2, this four-day event is worth your time. Jump in early, push your Runner level as high as possible, and secure the best rewards before servers go offline ahead of launch.