Good news for people who like numbers and small victories. Bungie announced on social media that ranked play in Marathon starts on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The mode is part of season one and is still being shaped, so developers are asking players for clear feedback to help polish things.

How Ranked Play works

The core idea is simple. Players earn points by hitting score targets set by a special item called the Holotag. Score enough, and you climb the ladder.

  • Progress through six ranks, from Bronze up to Pinnacle.
  • Each rank is split into three tiers to make climbs feel earned.
  • At season end you get rewards based on your highest rank reached, so you keep your progress.
  • Some rewards are exclusive to Ranked play, so this is the place to be if you want unique cosmetics.

Rewards and requirements

Season one rewards include gun styles and titles. To join Ranked matches you must be at Runner Level 25. Matches run on weekends only, and each weekend switches the active zone.

Weekend zones

  • Perimeter
  • Dire Marsh
  • Outpost

This first weekend starts on Perimeter. The matchmaking will align crew sizes so you can either play with a team or take on opposing players solo.

Why your feedback matters

Bungie has made it clear this mode is still in development. That means your reports, opinions, and bug finds are not just noise. They help shape how the mode behaves and what features come next. If you play, consider sending concrete feedback about balance, matchmaking, and any technical problems you run into.

We will keep an eye on developments and report any major updates. If you plan to jump in this weekend, good luck and try not to be too salty when the Holotag disagrees with you.