Bungie's extraction shooter Marathon has officially launched, giving players their first real look at how its microtransaction system operates and, most importantly, what everything actually costs.
The $40 game employs multiple monetization methods, featuring a premium battle pass alongside direct purchases for cosmetic items like character skins. As Bungie previously indicated before release, only cosmetic items are available for purchase—nothing that affects gameplay mechanics.
Despite this, some players have expressed disappointment with Marathon's pricing structure, criticizing both the cost of individual skins and Bungie's digital sales approach.
Right from launch day, Marathon offers $15 cosmetic bundles (requiring 1,500 Lux, the game's premium currency). These packs typically include a runner skin, weapon skin, decorative trinket, player banner, and profile picture. Individual runner skins sell separately for approximately $12 worth of Lux.
This pricing has frustrated some players who argue that a $40 premium game shouldn't adopt monetization strategies similar to free-to-play titles like Fortnite or Apex Legends. Others aren't surprised, noting that cosmetic items in other premium games—such as recent Call of Duty releases—often carry even higher price tags.
However, the real controversy centers around Lux currency denominations. A runner skin costs 1,120 Lux, but the store doesn't offer that exact amount. Instead, players must spend $10 for 1,100 Lux (leaving them 20 short), then purchase another $5 bundle for 500 Lux—effectively matching the $15 bundle price through this roundabout method.
This practice is common across the gaming industry, encouraging players to spend more than intended while leaving leftover currency that may prompt additional purchases. Franchises like Call of Duty and FIFA use similar systems, and now Marathon has joined them.
Player reactions have been mixed. "I'm tired of these Bungie scummy tactics," one fan commented. "Even if I love the game, this store and season pass in 2026 is a shame."
Another player observed: "Dude I look at the shop to find that if you spend $10 you'll get 1,100 coins or LUX but these people set every character price to 1,120, so you'll have to spend another five dollars. I hate this type of greed. I love the game but this is shallow."
A third added: "Yea that's dumb af. And after spending $15 you'll have 1,600 Lux so might as well get the entire bundle for 1,500. (Is what Bungie probably wants you to do) at that point why even sell the skin separately."
Meanwhile, many players defend Marathon's approach, noting that only cosmetics are sold and no purchases are necessary for competitive play. Some Destiny 2 veterans find the system entirely predictable given Bungie's history.
Interestingly, the monetization debate hasn't dampened overall enthusiasm for the game. At publication time, Marathon maintained a 'Very Positive' user review rating on Steam.
Additional details worth noting: Marathon Reward Passes don't expire, allowing players to purchase previous seasons' passes if missed. Rewards are unlocked using Silk currency earned through gameplay, while the Codex system offers both earnable and purchasable cosmetics.
For more Marathon coverage, including developer insights on design elements and difficulty balancing, check out IGN's ongoing review coverage.
