The gaming world recently buzzed with the announcement of Bungie's Marathon launching on March 5, 2026, accompanied by a visually striking official PlayStation 5 DualSense controller. While the controller itself is undeniably gorgeous, matching Marathon's neon-soaked aesthetic, our immediate take at In Game News is that this reveal underscores a frustrating double standard and a significant missed opportunity for another visually arresting title: Embark Studios' ARC Raiders.
The Marathon DualSense: A Glimmer, But Not Without Shadows
Sony has confirmed the Marathon DualSense will drop alongside the game, priced at $84.99/£74.99. A slick video showcasing its design is already making the rounds on the official PlayStation YouTube channel. We've seen many official DualSense controllers for first-party blockbusters over the years, and even a few for high-profile third-party titles like Fortnite. These premium accessories consistently command a hefty price tag, a cost often inflated further by the perennial issue of scalpers who gobble them up before genuine fans even have a chance.
This controller, like many before it, will be a coveted item. Yet, it also reminds us of the persistent challenges in acquiring such limited-edition gear at MSRP, a problem that Sony, despite its vast resources, has struggled to mitigate effectively. Our experience tells us this cycle will repeat, leaving many legitimate fans in the lurch.
ARC Raiders: Deserving Its Own Aesthetic Statement
Now, let's talk about ARC Raiders. This title, released on October 30, 2025, has already established itself as a frontrunner for one of 2026's most popular multiplayer experiences. Its visuals are nothing short of stunning – a unique "NASApunk" style that we'd argue outshines even Starfield's attempts, all while being anchored to a genuinely compelling game experience. From the intricate machine designs to the blistering UI colors, ARC Raiders is a treat for the eyes, something its critics clearly recognize:
- OpenCritic Reviews: 9.5 /10
- Top Critic Average: 87 /100
- Critics Recommended: 93%
This is a game begging for a physical manifestation of its aesthetic, a controller that fans could proudly display and utilize. The lack of an official ARC Raiders DualSense isn't just an oversight; it’s a glaring omission that impacts both player immersion and collectible value. It's a missed opportunity to deepen the connection between a highly-rated game and its dedicated community.
The Elephant in the Room: Ownership and Incentive
The primary difference, as our analysis shows, boils down to ownership. Sony owns Bungie, so making a substantial marketing splash with a Marathon DualSense is a no-brainer. ARC Raiders, conversely, is a multiplatform title from the independent Embark Studios. This independent status significantly reduces Sony's direct incentive to invest in a branded controller. This isn't just about a peripheral; it reflects a broader industry trend where first-party titles, or those from acquired studios, receive preferential treatment in marketing and merchandising.
We've observed this pattern for decades. While understandable from a pure business perspective, it often leaves critically acclaimed independent titles in the cold, despite their massive fan appeal and creative merit. It's a pragmatic reality, but one that ultimately shortchanges dedicated players and potentially limits the reach of otherwise deserving games, especially when a strong partnership could be forged.
Our Stance: A Call for Broader Recognition
We believe that outstanding visual design and critical success, regardless of studio ownership, should be celebrated with the kind of premium merchandise that truly resonates with the gaming community. An ARC Raiders DualSense would be a guaranteed seller, a testament to its unique art direction, and a boon for players eager to deepen their connection to its world. For now, fans will have to contend with the eye-catching colors and patterns of the Marathon DualSense – assuming they can even snag one before the aftermarket vultures descend.
The question isn't *if* an ARC Raiders controller would be popular, but why the market seems unwilling to facilitate it. It's a missed opportunity not just for hardware sales, but for building broader brand loyalty and rewarding genuine artistic innovation in the indie space. It’s high time platform holders recognized that quality and community engagement aren't exclusive to their owned IP.