Bungie clarifies that Marathon will not be “a Concord 2” following criticism on social media

The artistic director of the project responds to those who doubt the new shooter.

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Since its official reappearance and the confirmation of its release date, Marathon has become one of the most debated games of the moment. Part of the conversation on social media has not been exactly positive, with a sector of users insisting on comparing it to Concord, the failed FPS from Firewalk Studios, even going so far as to baptize it as “Concord 2”.

In response to this wave of comments, Bungie has decided to speak out. Specifically, Joseph Cross, the game’s artistic director during his time at the studio, has publicly responded to the criticism, making it clear that he does not share that negative vision of the game.

Bungie defends Marathon and trusts in its own identity

Joseph Cross acknowledges that he has not been directly involved in the game’s design or overall direction, as his work focused on the artistic and visual aspects. Nevertheless, he is convinced that the team has created something with its own identity and potential to connect with players.

As he explains, he doesn’t take the attacks personally, because he fully trusts in the work done and the creative value of the project. Cross emphasizes that, although he can’t control how the game will perform commercially or in terms of design, he can support the artistic result, which he is particularly proud of.

These statements come after months in which Bungie has continued to adjust and refine Marathon based on feedback from internal tests and player sessions, a process that, despite this, has not stopped the comparisons or premature criticism.

Marathon is scheduled to be released on March 5th, and before that date, players will be able to try it out through an open beta, an opportunity for the public to draw their own conclusions. On Xbox, interest is high, and this test will be crucial to determine if Bungie’s new project can distance itself from the labels that some are trying to impose on it prematurely.