Why is there a queue in Marathon? Server Slam login queue explained

It’s always a bummer when you sit down to game and the internet powers that be prevent you from doing so.

Server queues are one of these complications that could arise when trying to connect to an online-only game, like PvPvE extraction shooter Marathon. Launching a game and getting stuck in line like you’re waiting for a burger at the hot new restaurant in town is not fun, but sometimes it’s completely necessary for the health of the game’s servers.

With all of that in mind, here’s what we know about the login queue in Marathon and why it’s happening.

Why is there a queue to play Marathon?

If you’re seeing a login queue in Marathon, it’s likely due to the fact that many people are trying to log in and play the game at the same time. This is expected to happen during or after server maintenance, or after a new update drops and excitement to log in is high when the servers open up again.

The first taste of server queues or problems is expected to happen during the Marathon Server Slam open beta test, which runs from Thursday, Feb. 26 at 12pm CT to Monday, March 2 at 12pm CT.

“The Server Slam is a technical stress test,” Bungie said. “We are turning everything on worldwide, inviting as many of you in as we can, and then watching the systems closely as you do what you do best: log in, crew up, infil, exfil, log out, repeat.”

Because of the technical test nature of the server slam, Bungie also warned to expect login queues (especially during “peak hours”), server disconnects and error codes, and that the game may need to be brought down for server maintenance on short notice.

Marathon – Login services ‘currently being throttled’

During the 2025 closed alpha test, many players were met with a message that said, “due to increased traffic, login services to Marathon are currently being throttled.” It asked players to “please stay on this screen until login services stabilize and you are logged into Marathon.” The issue eventually stabilized.

If you’re seeing a login queue in Marathon, the only thing you can do is wait for it to finish. Once your spot in line comes up, you can hopefully get into the game and play it with no issue. However, if server issues pop up, you may face an error code or disconnect and have to start the queue all over again.

Bungie has had similar server login queue for Destiny 2 for many years, so we expect the situation to be similar in Marathon. If you get a queue, wait for your turn and hopefully you can play without problems shortly.

To keep up to date with the latest info on Marathon and its servers, be sure to follow official social media accounts like @MarathonDevTeam or @BNGServerStatus on Twitter/X.

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One of the early contracts in Marathon requires you to scan the FTL Array at any USEC Radio Tower, and the task can be slightly tricky.

This is likely going to be your first contract where the game doesn’t tell you where you need to be. The task is actually rather simple once you know where you need to reach and be. This guide will simplify the process and allow you to get all the applicable rewards.

How to locate the FTL Array in Marathon

The first task is to receive and keep the contract active. As of writing, only a contract can be kept active at any given time. Once done, start a run. Ideally, I am finding it easier to complete contracts with teammates rather than going solo.

You begin on the Perimeter map since it’s part of the contract. Once the run begins, head to the Station location. While there can be more towers located in other parts of the map, the Station POI was the nearest one for me when I was about to complete this contract.

The Station is pretty easy to locate, but the same can’t be said about the FTL Array on the USEC Radio Tower. If you’re close to the tower, you’ll find the quest icon (yellow colored) appearing on your screen. The tower can be found about E 100 on the overhead compass. However, I have marked the exact location on the image below to make it easier for you. The location isn’t random, and you’ll always find the FTL Array at this location.

How to scan the FTL Array in Marathon

Once you’ve located the tower, use one of the attached ladders to climb up. Look for a blue-colored terminal, and it will have an interactable FTL Comms Chip on it. If you’re this close to the tower, you can simply follow the icon as well.

Interact with the FTL Array and complete the scan, and this will complete your contract. Once you end your run, you’ll be able to redeem all the applicable rewards as allotted by the contract.

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