Exploring the Art Direction of Bungie’s Nu-Marathon Game

Joseph Cross, the former franchise art director of Marathon, parted ways with Bungie in December, just after the announcement of a March 2026 release window for the reboot of the sci-fi shooter Destiny. In a recent interview, Cross shed light on his experience working on the game amidst various challenges such as delays, layoffs, plagiarism accusations, and financial issues stemming from Destiny 2.

The art direction of the new Marathon game has garnered praise, with many acknowledging it as the standout feature despite the controversies. Cross himself admires the artistic style of the game, likening it to “expensive cybernetic ice cream” from an otherworldly IKEA. He emphasizes the importance of the art direction in creating intrigue and setting the game apart through innovative designs.

Reflecting on the risk involved in adopting a simplified art style for the game, Cross expresses his confidence in the unique visual approach. He highlights the focus on production art and product design principles in shaping the game’s aesthetics, aiming to evoke a sense of novelty and anticipation among players.

While acknowledging the challenges faced during the development process, Cross emphasizes the need for the art direction to push boundaries and offer a fresh perspective to the familiar shooter genre. He underscores the role of art in generating interest and enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Discussing the game’s narrative and design choices, Cross acknowledges the reliance on established mechanics but stresses the importance of presenting them in a compelling and innovative manner. He credits the art direction for infusing newness into the game world and elevating its visual appeal.

Despite the familiarity of the shooter genre, Cross believes that nu-Marathon has the potential to captivate players with its stunning visuals and immersive gameplay. As the game’s launch date approaches, the anticipation for its impact on the gaming community continues to grow.