Ready to dive into Bungie’s intense extraction shooter ahead of its full launch? The Marathon Server Slam offers everyone a free chance to experience the dark sci-fi world of Tau Ceti IV, test your skills against other Runners, and grab exclusive rewards that carry over to the March 5 release. Whether you’re a seasoned PvP player or new to extraction shooters, this guide covers everything you need to know about how to play Marathon Server Slam, from access steps to gameplay tips.
Marathon Server Slam Dates and Start Times
The Server Slam kicks off on February 26 at 10:00 AM PT and runs until March 2 at 10:00 AM PT. That’s a full week of action-packed playtime to stress-test the servers and get hooked on Marathon’s high-stakes gameplay.
Global start times include:
US East Coast: February 26, 1:00 PM ET
UK: February 26, 6:00 PM GMT
India: February 27, 12:30 AM IST
Don’t miss out—mark your calendar now and jump in right at launch for the best experience.
How to Access Marathon Server Slam on Any Platform
Good news: No pre-order, signup, or invite required. It’s completely free and open to all players worldwide with full cross-play and cross-save support across platforms.
PC (Steam)
Head to Steam during the Next Fest event, search for “Marathon Server Slam,” and hit download. Link your Bungie.net account when prompted for seamless progress syncing.
PlayStation 5
Visit the PlayStation Store, look for the Marathon Server Slam demo, and download it instantly. A PlayStation Plus subscription (Essential tier or higher) is needed for online multiplayer.
Xbox Series X|S
Open the Microsoft Store, search for Marathon Server Slam, and grab the free playtest. Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate is required for online play.
Once installed, create or log into your Bungie.net account to start running contracts and banking rewards.
What’s Available in Marathon Server Slam?
This isn’t a limited demo—it’s a substantial preview packed with core content to give you a real taste of Marathon’s extraction shooter action.
Maps and Zones
Explore two dynamic zones:
Perimeter: A tense edge-site expansion on the colony’s outskirts, perfect for ambushes and quick loot runs.
Dire Marsh: The colony’s agricultural research hub, filled with environmental hazards and hidden secrets.
Runner Shells
Choose from five of the six launch Runner shells—Destroyer, Assassin, Recon, Vandal, Triage—plus the unique scavenger Rook class. Each shell offers distinct abilities, playstyles, and customization options to suit aggressive assaults or stealthy infiltrations. (Thief arrives post-launch.)
Factions and Contracts
Align with five powerful factions: CyberAcme, NuCaloric, Traxus, MIDA, and Arachne. Tackle opening contracts to level up faction trees, unlock perks, and dominate Tau Ceti IV.
Game Modes
Play solo for lone-wolf tension, team up in trios, or use proximity voice chat to form temporary alliances with nearby Runners. Battle AI forces, rival players, loot high-value gear, and extract before it’s too late.
Exclusive Rewards: What You Can Unlock
All progress banks toward launch rewards, giving Server Slam players a head start. Here’s how to claim them:
Complete your first mission: Unique emblem and player background, plus Standard Arrival Cache (6x Standard Implants, 4x Shell Cores, 6x Weapon Mods, Overrun & Hardline weapons).
Reach Runner Level 10: Enhanced Arrival Cache (6x Enhanced Implants, 12x Shell Cores, 4x Mods, Enhanced Magnum & Hardline).
Hit Runner Level 30: Deluxe Arrival Cache (Deluxe/Enhanced gear, Deluxe Magnum, Enhanced Volley Rifle, Deluxe Backpack).
PS5 players with PS Plus also snag exclusive weapon charms inspired by Helldivers 2, Death Stranding 2, and Ghost of Yōtei—redeemable at launch.
Mastering Gameplay: How to Play Marathon Server Slam Like a Pro
Marathon’s core loop is thrilling: Select your shell and loadout, infil a zone, complete contracts while looting and fighting, then extract your haul. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Drop in hot to contested areas for fast loot or play safe with rotations. Use proximity chat strategically—ally or betray as needed. Prioritize faction contracts for XP, upgrade shells with cores, and mod weapons for dominance. Extracting keeps your gear; dying means starting over.
Beginner Tips
Start solo to learn maps. Experiment with shells—Recon for scouting, Destroyer for brawls. Listen for audio cues, manage stamina, and always scout extracts. Level up quickly by chaining contracts.
With cross-save, your Server Slam mastery transfers to full launch—perfect for climbing leaderboards early.
Get Ready for Marathon’s Full Launch
The Server Slam is your ticket to early dominance in this PvP extraction masterpiece from the Halo and Destiny creators. Download now, rack up those levels, and hit the ground running on March 5. Tau Ceti IV awaits—will you extract victorious?
FAQs
Is Marathon Server Slam free?
Yes, it is completely free with no pre-order required.
Do rewards carry over to launch?
Yes, progress and rewards transfer to the full release.
What platforms support Marathon Server Slam?
PC (Steam), PS5, Xbox Series X|S.
Is cross-play supported?
Yes, full cross-play and cross-save are enabled.
