Marathon Server Testing Start Date: Free To Try

Bungie announced a global Server Slam for its upcoming survival extraction shooter, Marathon. This event will provide the answer to the question of when does Marathon server testing start for the general public. The free-to-try weekend runs from February 26 to March 2 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. It offers players a chance to experience the core gameplay and earn rewards for the full game. The full release of Marathon is scheduled just days later, on March 5.

When does Marathon Server Testing Start?

According to the PlayStation blog post, Marathon Server Slam begins on February 26, 2026, at 10 AM PT. The event concludes on March 2, 2026, at 10 AM PT. This open beta period gives the development team a chance to stress test the game's infrastructure with a worldwide player base. This test serves as a final preview for players ahead of the official launch. The timing also coincides with the Steam Next Fest, providing visibility on the PC platform.

How to Join Marathon Free Testing

Players can access the Server Slam by downloading the game client for free from their respective digital storefronts once it becomes available. For PC players, it’s enough to download the demo version from the Marathon store page, which must be available for two weeks. Console players on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S will need an active PlayStation Plus or Game Pass Core subscription to participate. A Bungie.net account and a persistent internet connection are required for all players across all platforms.

Marathon Preview

Players will deploy as bio-cybernetic mercenaries called Runners to the lost colony world of Tau Ceti IV. The Server Slam includes two zones, Perimeter and Dire Marsh, for infiltration. Opening contracts for five of the game's factions will be available, giving a glimpse into the mission structure and the warring groups funding the mercenary operations on the planet's surface. I can see that all six unique Runner Shells, which function as character classes, will be playable, alongside a special "Rook" variant in a scavenger mode. Bungie has also confirmed the inclusion of a solo queue for lone players and proximity-based voice chat to facilitate temporary and uneasy alliances between rival Runners.

While this Server Slam offers a substantial look, it is a limited slice of the full experience. Progress earned during the beta will not carry over to the main game. However, participants can earn a tiered package of gear, including weapons and implants, to use at launch, plus a commemorative emblem and player banner. PlayStation Plus members can also redeem a trio of exclusive weapon charms inspired by Helldivers 2, Death Stranding 2, and Ghost of Yōtei.

After a period of development turbulence, which included an indefinite delay following negative feedback from a 2025 alpha test, recent reports from closed tests have been more positive. Bungie aims for this Server Slam to rebuild momentum and showcase the game's current state before its March release. I do believe this test is a critical step for the game's launch. Season 1, which arrives with the full game, will introduce two additional zones, the Outpost and Cryo Archive, as well as a ranked mode and the full progression trees for all six factions.