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Sony CFO provides key updates on Marathon

Sony CFO Lin Tao confirms that Marathon is expected to release by March 2026.

August 7, 2025 at 08:37 AM
blur Sony CFO says Marathon is expected to release before March, and Bungie’s independence is ‘getting lighter’

Sony's chief financial officer gives updates on Marathon and Bungie’s integration into PlayStation.

Sony CFO confirms Marathon expected to launch by March 2026

Sony's chief financial officer, Lin Tao, has announced that the game Marathon is expected to launch by the end of March 2026. During a recent Q&A following the company’s financial results, Tao expressed confidence that the game’s development issues would be resolved in time for a release. The CFO clarified that while there is no formal commitment yet, the aim is to provide a more concrete timeline in the autumn. Regarding Bungie, Tao indicated that the studio's independence is decreasing, as Sony is moving towards a full integration of Bungie into PlayStation Studios. This structural reform has prompted a shift in how the studio operates, with management becoming more aligned with Sony’s overall strategy. Marathon had initially been set for a September release, but was delayed due to development hurdles, prompting the company to emphasize a commitment to quality over speed.

Key Takeaways

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Marathon is estimated to launch by March 2026.
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No official commitment has yet been made regarding the release date.
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Bungie's integration into PlayStation Studios is progressing.
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Sony aims for quality in development over rapid release.
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Fans have shown strong reactions to the game's delay.
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Management of Bungie is shifting towards a more integrated role at Sony.

"We are now doing modifications in development and, based on the progress, we believe we can communicate when we can launch Marathon."

This quote shows Sony's commitment to resolving current development issues and emphasizes the importance of quality.

"Independence is getting lighter, and Bungie is shifting into a role which is becoming more part of PlayStation Studios."

This highlights the ongoing integration of Bungie into Sony's structure.

"If this launch is cancelled we’d need to do the revision of the valuation, however as of now this is not expected."

Tao's statement reassures stakeholders that a cancellation is not anticipated, reflecting confidence in the project.

"Through every comment and real-time conversation on social media, your voice has been strong and clear."

This quote from Bungie underscores the importance of community feedback in game development decisions.

Tao’s statements reflect a significant moment for Sony as it navigates the balance between creativity and corporate strategy. The focus on integrating Bungie more closely into PlayStation raises questions about the future of studio autonomy in the gaming industry. While the confidence shown in the release of Marathon is promising, it is essential to consider potential backlash from fans who expect transparency and accountability. The gaming community often reacts strongly to delays, and Sony's handling of this process could have lasting implications on its reputation.

Highlights

  • Confidence in quality over speed is crucial for game releases.
  • Marathon's launch could redefine user expectations for PlayStation.
  • Bungie's future within Sony reflects industry trends.
  • Transparency from developers is vital for community trust.

Concerns about Bungie's integration and potential backlash

The shift towards a closer management of Bungie may alienate fans who value studio independence, risking public reaction if not handled transparently.

Sony's approach to Bungie's management reveals a new era in game studio relationships.

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