Joseph Cross, art director for Bungie's upcoming shooter Marathonleaves just a few months before the game's release. Cross's departure came just after the game was finally announced on March 2026 releaseafter indefinite delay caused by unsatisfactory feedback from players about the alpha tests of the shooter.
Cross's departure from Bungie was heralded by an update to his LinkedIn and social accounts, and he confirmed it. My city that it was his choice to leave. “I’m very proud of this project and what the team has achieved over the last six years,” he said, reflecting on his departure.
After years of working on Destiny as lead concept artist, Cross returned to Bungie in 2020 to help shape Marathon's visual style. The extraction shooter looks set to be one of Bungie's most visually unique games, with a bold aesthetic. named Cross as “graphic realism”.
Marathon's unique art style became the subject of controversy earlier this year when Antireal graphic artist accuses Bungie of stealing arttagging Bungie and Joseph Cross in a post on X. Bungie said the stolen assets belonged to an artist who is no longer with the studio. Antireal has since stated that problem solved to her satisfaction.
Cross announced his departure by Xreaffirming his pride in his work at the Marathon. “Getting support of this magnitude for something extraordinary is rare, and Bungie's art team is the best in the business. I will enjoy the game as a fan along with all of you.”
Marathon will release in March 2026 for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. The game will cost $40 at launch, the same as its popular competitor Arc Raiders.
