Bungie’s Marathon: Addressing Concerns and Embracing Innovation
Marathon’s Initial Reception
Bungie recently showcased early footage of its upcoming first-person extraction shooter, Marathon, during a live stream. However, the reception on social media and platforms like Reddit has been mixed, with many expressing skepticism about the game’s potential. Some observers have drawn parallels to Concord, a hero shooter that Sony closed down shortly after its launch, raising concerns about Marathon’s fate.
A Call for Support
In light of the skepticism, a former developer from Concord, who goes by the username MrSpug on Reddit, shared a heartfelt message on the Marathon subreddit. He urged players to remain open-minded about Bungie’s new project, emphasizing that the challenges faced by their past title should not overshadow the hard work being put into Marathon.
Reflections on Concord’s Failures
The developer reflected on Concord’s shortcomings, admitting that it “failed to inspire players.” He described the experience as gut-wrenching, noting the sense of disappointment felt within the development team when their project was criticized online. “Our messages were heard loud and clear,” he stated, conveying the emotional toll of a project that didn’t meet expectations.
Sympathy for Bungie’s Team
Despite the failure of Concord, MrSpug expressed his understanding and empathy towards the developers at Bungie. He acknowledged the considerable effort they have invested in creating Marathon and praised their courage to innovate in a highly competitive gaming genre.
Comparing Concord and Marathon
While it’s important to note that Concord and Marathon are different types of games, the common link of being under the Sony umbrella has led to speculation about their paths. One of the key criticisms directed at Marathon during the stream was its pricing model, particularly the decision to not adopt a free-to-play model. Bungie has indicated that Marathon will be priced lower than the standard new game, likely around $40 upon its release in September—a factor that has led to further comparisons with Concord.
Concerns About Potential Failures
The discussion surrounding Marathon has raised questions about its viability. MrSpug highlighted his concern over the premature labeling of the game as a failure even before it has been released. He expressed frustration that players might dismiss Marathon solely based on the history of Concord, emphasizing the need for gamers to approach new titles with an open mind.
The Importance of Giving Games a Chance
In closing, the former developer from Concord emphasized the importance of supporting new gaming endeavors. “I really didn’t want to draw attention to myself,” he remarked, but felt compelled to advocate for the developers at Bungie. The gaming community’s support can be vital for the success of innovative titles like Marathon, which aim to carve out a unique space in the competitive gaming landscape.
