Kinda Funny Games Daily: Marathon Launches September, Isn't Free-To-Play – Episode Summary

Date Released: April 14, 2025
Hosts: Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Tim Gettys, Blessing Adeoye Jr.
Episode Title: Marathon Launches September, Isn't Free-To-Play

1. Greg's Chicago Adventure & The "Hate Mail" Briefcase

Timestamp: [00:00] - [02:13]

The episode kicks off with Greg Miller sharing his recent trip to Chicago, where he and Tim Gettys engaged with hundreds of fans during late-night meet and greets. Greg introduced the “stars in the bank” briefcase, a playful centerpiece for collecting fan messages, humorously dubbed "hate mail" about Tim. Greg chuckles, saying, “Everyone came up with creative stuff” ([01:20]). Among the amusing submissions were a friendship bracelet and a chapstick for Tim, highlighting the lighthearted nature of the interactions. Tim adds, “Ran from it” ([01:16]), setting a jovial tone for the episode.

2. Marathon Launch: A Premium Extraction Shooter by Bungie

Timestamp: [03:09] - [36:17]

a. Game Overview and Release Details
Marathon, Bungie’s latest title, is set to launch on September 23rd across PlayStation 5, Steam, and Xbox Series X/S. Described as an extraction shooter, the game involves players forming crews of three to scavenge the remnants of the lost Tao Senti 4 colony. Greg explains, “In Marathon, players work together... facing AI security forces and rival teams” ([13:02]).

b. Pricing Controversy: Why Marathon Isn't Free-to-Play
A significant portion of the discussion centers on Bungie’s decision to make Marathon a premium game rather than free-to-play (F2P). Bungie’s director, Joe Ziggler, articulated on the Friends Per Second podcast, “We are committed to delivering on Seasons Past without increasing the box price” ([16:25]). It’s reported that Bungie is considering a $40 price tag, aligning Marathon with titles like Helldivers 2.

Tim voices concerns, stating, “Everyone has their own definition of what is the right price” ([15:41]). He draws parallels to the failed live service model of Concord, emphasizing skepticism about Marathon’s success given the current gaming landscape dominated by free-to-play models.

c. Community Reactions and Host Perspectives
Listeners expressed mixed feelings, reflected in super chats. For instance, Alex Frazier commented, “Your Pokemon gonna lose those stars. Tim,” while Flying Penguins voiced, “Charging a box price for shooter with three maps... I hope Bungie changes that” ([21:01]). Tim responds thoughtfully, acknowledging the challenges, “It’s so complicated” ([26:16]).

Greg and Tim delve into comparisons with other games like Destiny and Tarkov, debating whether Marathon can carve out its niche. Tim remarks, “I do think Marathon has a lot of promise” but remains cautious about its ability to compete against established titles.

3. PlayStation 5 Price Increases Amid Economic Turmoil

Timestamp: [42:11] - [48:59]

Sony has announced price hikes for the PlayStation 5 in Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Greg reads from Polygon’s Michael McWhorter, stating, “In Europe, the price of the PlayStation 5 Edition is now 499.99 Euros” ([44:20]). The increase is attributed to “a backdrop of challenging economic environment including high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates” ([44:20]).

Tim expresses frustration, saying, “We're just in such tumultuous times that it almost feels silly to speculate” ([44:20]). The hosts discuss the broader implications of rising console prices, with Greg highlighting concerns over consumer affordability and market stability.

4. Mythic Quest Cancellation by Apple TV+

Timestamp: [50:45] - [56:45]

Apple TV+ has decided to cancel "Mythic Quest" after four seasons, despite the show not being initially conceived as a series finale. Greg shares the official statement, thanking fans and the cast ([50:45]). Tim voices his disappointment, noting, “I loved this show... season four was awesome because of... amazing characters” ([52:14]).

They discuss the show's strengths, particularly its authentic portrayal of video game culture and character development, comparing it to acclaimed comedies like "Community" and "The Office." Tim praises the spin-off, "Side Quest," for its creative storytelling and connection to the main series ([54:43]).

5. New Respawn Star Wars Game Announcement

Timestamp: [57:25] - [63:24]

Respawn Entertainment has announced a new Star Wars title, a single-player, turn-based tactics game developed in collaboration with Bit Reactor. Greg reads the announcement details, mentioning, “First look at Star Wars Celebration on April 19” ([57:25]). Tim reacts enthusiastically, although he notes it aligns with a genre he’s less familiar with, hoping it captures the essence of Star Wars effectively.

The hosts discuss expectations, with Greg highlighting Respawn’s reputation and Tim expressing cautious optimism: “I think Respawn at the very least have proven that they have really smart takes on the world of Star Wars” ([58:17]).

6. Additional News Highlights

Timestamp: [60:11] - [67:24]

a. Minecraft Movie Screenings Disruptions
Victoria Kennedy reports that cinemas are urging viewers to keep popcorn intact during Minecraft movie screenings due to disruptive behaviors, including instances of launching popcorn and even bringing live chickens into theaters ([60:11]).

b. PAX East Keynote Announcement
Greg announces his role as the keynote speaker for PAX East, where he will be interviewed by Ben Starr in a unique format, flipping the traditional host-interviewee roles ([67:01]). Tim expresses excitement about the upcoming event and Greg’s participation.

7. Listener Super Chats & Interactions

Timestamp: [70:00] - End

Throughout the episode, listeners engage via super chats, sharing their opinions and humorously interacting with the hosts. Notable mentions include:

• Nick Metzger ([21:01]): Critiques the pricing model, hoping Bungie reconsiders.
• Bryce ([42:11]): Sends a humorous “hate mail” card referencing Tim’s role.
• Jessica Hinkle ([62:02]): Congratulates Greg on his Chicago trip attire.
• Will ([66:33]): Thanks the hosts for brightening his day and mentions a potential meet and greet.
• Na ([68:38]): Clarifies that pricing confusion was due to GameSpot’s mislabeling, not Bungie’s statements.

These interactions add a layer of community engagement, reflecting both support and playful banter among the fanbase.

8. Conclusion & Upcoming Segments

Timestamp: [70:12] - End

Greg and Tim wrap up by teasing upcoming content, including a deep dive into Marathon with Paris Lilly and a screencast review of "The Last of Us" Season 2 premiere. They encourage listeners to join their live streams on YouTube and Twitch, and to support the show through memberships for an ad-free experience.

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Miller at [13:02]: “In Marathon, players work together... facing AI security forces and rival teams.”
• Joe Ziggler, Marathon Director, at [16:25]: “We are committed to delivering on Seasons Past without increasing the box price.”
• Tim Gettys at [22:17]: “Yeah, this seems like a little more rough for this to be coming out now.”
• Listener Nick Metzger at [21:01]: “Charging a box price for shooter with three maps... I hope Bungie changes that.”
• Greg Miller at [65:37]: “...you have become the loser to Greg.”

Final Thoughts:

This episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily offers an in-depth analysis of Bungie’s upcoming launch of Marathon, deliberating its positioning in a market saturated with free-to-play models. The hosts balance technical insights with humor, enriched by active community participation. Additionally, the discussion touches on broader industry trends, such as rising console prices and the cancellation of beloved shows like Mythic Quest. For listeners seeking comprehensive video game news with a blend of expert opinions and entertaining banter, this episode serves as a valuable resource.