Bungie Ditches Proximity Chat in Marathon to Combat Toxicity: Here’s Why!

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In simpler terms, the forthcoming multiplayer game by Bungie, titled “Marathon“, won’t have a specific feature due to concerns about fostering harmful behavior or negativity.

At the 2023 PlayStation presentation, Bungie’s reboot of Marathon was initially teased, but it wasn’t until April 13, 2025, that players were given a live demonstration of the game. This forthcoming shooter allows you to assume the role of “Runners,” essentially humans who have traded their biological bodies for advanced cybernetic capabilities.

In this game, the main emphasis is on multiplayer and player-versus-player (PvP) action. You and your team will be required to gather various types of loot, accomplish tasks, and traverse a tough environment where other players or hostile AI opponents can eliminate you unexpectedly at any given moment.

Given this scenario, it’s understandable that some might consider a nearby chat function as a logical addition. After all, numerous comparable games include this feature to enhance realism. Yet, the developers have clarified that Marathon will not incorporate this specific feature.

Marathon won’t have proximity chat as devs want to create a “safe space”

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According to an interview with PC Gamer, game director Joe Ziegler stated that while they don’t oppose the concept of proximity chat, their main concern is ensuring they create a secure and comfortable environment for players within this interactive space.

If you’ve dabbled in games using close-range communication features, chances are you’ve already experienced the charm and potential pitfalls they offer.

In some games, you might find yourself entertained by the funniest comments from players. However, it’s important to note that this same feature can lead to unpleasant situations very rapidly if players decide to bully or belittle others through it. Such instances are not uncommon in games where such a feature is available.

Concerning the potential issues with close-range chatting, he mentioned that there’s currently no ideal solution in sight. But, rest assured, once the team finds a way to address these concerns, proximity chat won’t necessarily be banned altogether.

Due to our commitment to maintaining an environment free from harassment and harmful actions among players, it seems premature for us to integrate proximity chat before we’ve found a suitable solution,” he clarified.

As a fellow enthusiast, I must admit that the absence of real-time chat during gameplay has been somewhat of a letdown for many of us. However, here’s some exciting news to tide us over! Marathon is set to debut its Alpha playtest soon. This early access opportunity allows us to immerse ourselves in the game before its official release on September 24, 2025. Let’s seize this chance to explore and contribute to shaping the final product together!

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2025-04-14 09:48