Bungie’s Marathon reboot is finally here, and while most gamers will want to jump right into the brutal extraction shooters, those enamored with the game’s “graphical retrofuturism” aesthetic might want to look into the amazing Collector’s Edition.
Ahead of the game’s launch on March 5th (aka today), we were lucky enough to receive the complete physical Collector’s Edition. These are our full, unfiltered thoughts on the thing… which is bigger than your average collector’s edition and goes the extra mile with its attention to detail.
I’m not usually a big fan of collector’s editions; they’re usually overpriced just because an ok-ish figure or statuette is included, and the other included goodies rarely make up for the high price tag. Out of the box, my first impression of the Marathon Collector’s Edition was “wow, this feels nice”.
Picture 1 of 4
The box itself is quite an event, thanks to “premium hexagon packaging,” which is layered (like an onion). When you peel off the first layer, you get a “deeper” look at the Thief Runner Shell in the middle of this edition. Each of these “skins” is filled with neat visual details and text snippets that seem lifted right out of the game’s story.
In Marathon’s distant future (which serves as a sequel of sorts to the original sci-fi single-player shooters), augmented humans with cybernetic bodies infiltrate the decaying remains of the lost Tau Ceti IV colony to acquire valuable technology while battling droid forces and other ruthless player factions. It’s an alien world full of mystery, but when it comes to human presence, the art direction is a mix of “retro cool” and modern technology, often evoking the look of 3D printed models. The edgy but clean aesthetic covers the Runners’ bodies and most of the gadgets and weapons, and this CE’s hexagonal box follows that style.
“Shells” are essentially the models/classes players will have access to (with more set to arrive via free updates in the future), so it makes sense that the art-covered box itself opens as what we understand as a shell, which gradually reveals the thief’s body layers and even their insides. It’s a fantastic aesthetic choice that means the box – and not just the contents – is a core part of the collection.
Picture 1 of 6
There is one lenticular poster which also acts as one of the aforementioned teams. It works so well as part of the package that I actually felt bad about removing it to access the rest of the goodies. It looks good on its own.
At this point six art postcards are revealedwhere each gives us a good insight into the game’s launch day shell with high-resolution screenshots printed on cardboard. These are no different from those you find in other premium editions. Perhaps more special is “silkworm miniature” and iron-on embroidered patch which is ideal for giving your bag or jacket a stylish glow.
The main event is of course 1/6th Scale Thief Statue with LED light. I don’t know exactly how heavy I expected it to be, but it was heavier than that. You can use this thing as a blunt weapon in a hurry, which is always a reassuring sign of quality in a collectible.
Picture 1 of 9
A closer look at the figure’s painted details also reveals satisfactory quality control, with close-ups that stand up to scrutiny. Thief’s design is undeniably amazing, and while I personally wish alternate CEs with other shells were made as well, this is one of those figures that won’t make it to storage. I just have to find a place to display it properly.
The biggest negative I can think of is the lack of a wall adapter to turn on the statue’s LED lights. You get one USB-A to USB-C 1 meter cable which you can just connect to the PC or any adapter/charger you have lying around, but not including one inside a $170/$229 (depending on whether you get the game code or codeless version) the collector’s edition feels a bit cheap.
Some might also criticize the LED lights as being too subtle, but I prefer this calmer approach to lighting the swampy base of the statue (including the fallen Runner) as opposed to the neon-infused ornaments cyberpunk diehards might prefer. It’s a nice contrast when you look at the rest of the pack, which is filled with strong lime green tones, dazzling whites and sharp art. You can simply turn it on and leave it on overnight to give any shelf or table a delicate, spooky look.
As someone who usually ignores collector’s editions, Marathon seems like a thoughtfully designed and crafted one that’s perfect for anyone in a strong sci-fi setting with enough free “credits” to spend on nerdy decorations. It’s obviously not for everyone, and most players will just pick up the regular version of the game. Still, this isn’t just a regular figure surrounded by cheap clutter, and even if an online extraction shooter isn’t your jam, I’d be surprised if this CE didn’t grab your attention.
The Collector’s Edition will be available through Bungie’s own store while supplies last. The version that includes the game code costs $229but there is also a codeless version available for $170 (if you already have the game). The digital rewards also include bonus in-game cosmetics.
Marathon launches today (March 5), on PC via Steam, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.
Our writer was sent a copy of the Marathon Collector’s Edition by UberStrategist PR on behalf of Bungie.
