Ahead of its release next month, Bungie is looking to do some server stress-testing for Marathon, and anyone who joins in will get some digital goodies for their efforts. The studio–which is owned by Sony–has also revealed rewards for Xbox gamers, which are unique for testers on the Microsoft platform. For the open beta test, Xbox Series X|S owners will receive two stylish weapon charms that can be equipped in the full game, if they decide to purchase it.
While these charms don’t offer any gameplay bonuses, they do look quite fashionable. The Emerald Clutch Weapon Charm and Emerald Catch Weapon Charm add some emerald flair to your weapons, and while it hasn’t been confirmed, they look very Minecraft-inspired in their design. Bungie hasn’t revealed the rewards for Marathon players on PC yet, but they’ll likely also be a set of weapon charms. Here’s a closer look at them:
In comparison, PS Plus subscribers who play the Marathon beta will receive weapon charms based on Sony games like Ghost of Yotei, Death Stranding 2, and Helldivers 2. If you’re interested in taking part, the Marathon Open Beta kicks off on February 26 and runs through March 2, ending just days before the full game launches on March 5. With its release date drawing closer, Bungie and Sony have begun to reveal more details on Marathon, including the soul music composed for the game and Bungie’s plans to combat cheaters.
The studio is taking a no-nonsense approach to would-be cheaters, as anyone caught will be permabanned from Marathon. “No network or security model can guarantee perfection,” Bungie said in a statement. “But we are committed to protecting the Marathon competitive experience and ensuring everyone has their fair chance at exfiltrating with a backpack full of sweet loot.”
