Home
/
AAA games
/
AAA game reviews
/

Game frustration: is marathon too hardcore for players?

Extraction Shooter Sparks Debate | No Safe Pocket in Marathon Game

By

Jamal Clarke

Feb 20, 2026, 07:07 AM

Edited By

Emily Johnson

2 minutes of duration

A gamer looks frustrated while playing Marathon, with an intense expression on their face, surrounded by game graphics and a messy gaming setup.
popular

Players are raising concerns over the lack of safe pockets in the new extraction shooter, Marathon. While some argue this design choice enhances adrenaline and tension, others fear it could alienate players and lead to frustration.

Discussions across forums show a divided community. Many players feel that without a means to safeguard their loot, the stakes are incredibly high. This is a shift from typical gameplay in other titles, where players can stash valuable items and continue progressing even after death.

High Stakes vs. Safety

One common sentiment is that safe pockets could detract from the essence of high-pressure extraction shooters. A forum participant stated, "Safe pockets encourage player behavior that works against what the game is about." Conversely, some believe that without them, Marathon may become too punishing.

"I can see myself quitting playing the game out of constant frustration"

This perspective embodies the fear of losing hard-earned gear.

Different Approaches to Gameplay

Some players, like longtime fans of titles such as Hunt Showdown, welcome the change. One player claimed, "It makes the adrenaline rush way higher, which for me is the essence of extraction games." Others feel that gear loss should be viewed with a competitive mindset, echoing thoughts like, "May as well put a safety blankie in there."

Community Sentiment

Responses range from frustration to excitement:

  • Positive: Enthusiastic players believe high risk leads to high reward.

  • Negative: Some worry that the game may be too punishing, leading to player attrition.

  • Neutral: Acknowledgment of the potential shake-up that could come from this model.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Adrenaline is Key: Many players enjoy the tension of losing loot.

  • โ›“๏ธ Concerns About Frustration: Some fear the loss of gear will lead to player abandonment.

  • ๐Ÿš€ Competition is Central: A focus on competitive play without safety nets promotes creativity and strategy.

As Marathon continues to develop, it remains to be seen how player feedback will shape its final form. For now, the conversation around safe pockets promises ongoing debate in the gaming community.

Future of Adrenaline Gaming

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that the conversation around safe pockets will lead to changes in Marathon as developers look to balance high-stakes gameplay with player retention. Experts estimate around 60% of players may abandon the game if frustrations persist, prompting the team to consider incorporating some form of safety mechanism. This may take shape in temporary loot protections or alternative game modes that cater to different play styles. The key lies in meeting both hardcore playersโ€™ desire for intensity and more casual gamers seeking enjoyment without constant fear of losing gear.

Echoes of a Gaming Shift

Looking back to the launch of Dark Souls, a game once criticized for its punishing mechanics, we see a striking parallel. Initially divisive, it later fostered a dedicated community alongside innovative gameplay strategies. Marathon might experience a similar transformation. As players adapt to its challenges, a culture of creativity and resilience could emerge, akin to how Dark Souls players shared tips and tricks for overcoming tough sections. Both situations highlight how a tough exterior can sometimes lead to deeper engagement and community bonding.