Bungie Drops Marathon Trademark

Bungie has abandoned its Marathon trademark after a dispute with Traxxas.

Bungie Dropped Marathon Trademark Amid Legal Opposition from Traxxas

Bungie has officially abandoned its trademark application for "Traxus" after ongoing legal opposition from RC car manufacturer Traxxas. The trademark application was filed in May 2023, linked to an upcoming installment in their Marathon series. However, Traxxas filed a formal objection in October 2024, arguing that the name was too similar to its own brand and could mislead consumers, particularly since both brands included clothing in their trademark applications. Following months of negotiations and endorsement for settlement from both parties, Bungie filed a notice of express abandonment on July 14, 2025. The next day, the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board confirmed the conclusion of the matter. Bungie's allusions to the Marathon series continue with other trademark efforts, though several have also been abandoned recently without any public disputes. Meanwhile, development on the game itself has faced delays, with no new release date provided as Bungie continues its playtesting under strict confidentiality.

The abandonment of Bungie's "Traxus" trademark indicates the complexities of trademark law in the gaming industry, especially when fan-favorite names collide with established products from unrelated sectors. As Bungie navigates these legal waters, the company demonstrates the challenges it faces when trying to secure and protect its intellectual property. The ongoing delays in the release of Marathon add another layer of complication, raising concerns among fans about the future of the franchise. This case serves as a reminder of how intertwined and vulnerable the gaming development process can be to external pressures, particularly from established brands.

Highlights

The situation reflects broader trends in trademark disputes impacting game development timelines.