iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Hunt: Showdown 1896 is the clearest match for players who want the tension of extraction play with a genuinely hostile horror atmosphere. Crytek describes Hunters confronting supernatural threats and rival Hunters, alone or with friends, in corrupted backwaters. That combination maps closely to the specific appeal many players seek when they search for “games like Marathon” and “extraction-shooter horror.”
The match has an important limit: Hunt uses a western supernatural setting, while Marathon is science fiction. Marathon also does not present horror in exactly the same way across every mode. Its Nightfall experience is deliberately slower, darker and more survival-horror-oriented than the regular Day Marsh format. Use the comparison below to decide whether you want horror to define every match or to appear as one part of a broader extraction game.
The short answer: start with Hunt: Showdown 1896
Among the games supported by current official information, Hunt: Showdown 1896 is the strongest recommendation for an extraction-shooter horror audience. Crytek’s description combines supernatural enemies with human opponents, and it explicitly supports playing alone or with friends. The official game page presents Hunters operating in corrupted backwaters, where the environment and other players are both sources of danger. That gives Hunt the two pressures that define this recommendation: surviving an eerie world and deciding when it is safe to leave with what you found.
Hunt is not a substitute for Marathon’s setting, movement, weapons or progression. The evidence does not establish that the two games share those systems, and their fictional worlds are fundamentally different. Choose Hunt because its supernatural threat model and player-versus-player tension overlap with the horror side of Marathon’s appeal, not because it is a science-fiction copy.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Question | Marathon | Hunt: Showdown 1896 |
|---|---|---|
| Core setting | Science-fiction world developed by Bungie | Supernatural, corrupted backwaters described by Crytek |
| Horror emphasis | Mode-sensitive; Bungie says Nightfall plays more like survival horror | Supernatural threats are part of the game’s central premise |
| Other-player pressure | Traditional PvPvE extraction structure, with additional modes and planned connections between PvE and PvP | Hunters face other Hunters as well as monsters |
| Solo or squad play | Not specified in the cited launch information | Crytek describes solo play or playing with friends |
| Availability established here | Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S at launch | Digital Steam listing |
Sources: Crytek’s official Hunt page, the Steam listing and Bungie’s launch announcement.
What “games like Marathon” means in this context
Marathon launched on March 5, 2026, for Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Bungie describes its design as a combination of world design, gameplay and discoverable narrative. That description matters because “similar” can mean several different things: an extraction structure, science-fiction atmosphere, environmental storytelling, competitive firefights, or a particular progression model. No single substitute should be assumed to match all of them.
For this article, the useful target is narrower: a game that creates extraction tension while making the environment itself frightening or uncanny. Extraction games generally ask you to weigh continued exploration against the risk of losing a run. Horror changes that calculation by making information scarce, threats harder to read and retreat psychologically difficult. A game can therefore resemble Marathon in tension without sharing its setting or exact combat feel.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteWhy Hunt is the best-supported horror-and-extraction fit
Supernatural enemies and human rivals share the same space
Crytek’s official description places Hunters against supernatural threats and other players. That is the essential overlap with extraction-shooter horror: you are not choosing between a combat game and a horror game at the menu. The hostile world and competing players can disrupt the same objective, force the same route change and punish the same mistake.
This combination also creates a different kind of uncertainty from a conventional player-versus-player shooter. A rival Hunter is not the only reason to hesitate before entering an area; the supernatural threat is part of the decision. You must read the situation rather than treating every danger as a predictable opponent controlled by another person.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
It supports solo play and playing with friends
Crytek says Hunters can operate alone or with friends. That makes Hunt a practical recommendation for two different Marathon audiences: players who prefer the concentration of a solo run and groups who want to divide scouting, fighting and extraction decisions. The official description does not establish a specific squad size or matchmaking rule, so those details should be checked in the current game client or store information before purchase.
The atmosphere is part of the premise, not an optional theme
The setting is described as corrupted backwaters, and supernatural threats are central to the official presentation. That gives Hunt a more consistently horror-oriented identity than a game where darkness appears only in one playlist or seasonal event. If your priority is dread, monsters and an oppressive environment in every session, Hunt is the safer choice.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWhere Hunt differs from Marathon
Western supernatural fiction versus science fiction
Marathon’s identity is science fictional; Hunt’s is built around supernatural danger in a western environment. The difference affects more than visual design. Science fiction tends to frame threats through technology, artificial systems and unfamiliar planets or stations, while Hunt’s premise uses corrupted wilderness and supernatural creatures. If you want the specific speculative-fiction texture of Marathon, Hunt will feel like a thematic alternative rather than a replacement.
Do not assume identical movement, weapons or progression
The cited descriptions do not establish that Hunt shares Marathon’s movement model, weapon handling, inventory rules or progression structure. Those systems strongly influence whether an extraction game feels fast, tactical, arcade-like or methodical. Treat Hunt as a match for the horror-and-risk profile only. Anyone choosing primarily on movement tech or loadout progression should wait for a direct, current feature comparison from the developers.
Different objective language
Marathon is described by Bungie as a PvPvE extraction game with world design, gameplay and discoverable narrative working together. Crytek’s Hunt description centers on Hunters, supernatural threats and other Hunters. The two games may produce similar tension while asking you to understand objectives differently. Do not buy Hunt expecting Marathon’s exact mission structure or narrative delivery.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Marathon’s horror is mode-sensitive
Marathon should not be treated as a conventional horror game in every match. Bungie’s May 27, 2026 Season 2 announcement describes Nightfall as slower-paced than Day Marsh, with slightly fewer players, additional environmental challenges and navigation through darkness and threats. Bungie says it “plays more like a survival horror experience.” That wording is important: the horror emphasis belongs particularly to Nightfall rather than automatically describing the entire game.
Nightfall changes the comparison with Hunt. If you enjoy Marathon’s standard extraction loop but want more environmental pressure, darkness and deliberate pacing, Nightfall may provide that mood without leaving Marathon’s science-fiction setting. If you want supernatural horror to be the baseline of every session, Hunt remains the clearer recommendation because Crytek makes those threats part of the game’s central identity.
Use the mode distinction when choosing
- Choose Hunt when monsters and a corrupted environment are the main reason you want an alternative.
- Stay with Marathon and try Nightfall when you want slower navigation and survival-horror tension inside Bungie’s science-fiction world.
- Do not generalize Nightfall to every Marathon mode. Bungie’s description specifically contrasts it with Day Marsh.
The Nightfall description is an official mode characterization, not a claim that every match will feel equally frightening. Map knowledge, group composition and personal tolerance for darkness will still shape the experience.
Marathon’s announced future affects the comparison
Bungie’s September 2026 development update said an October 6 update would reset progression and refresh rewards. The same update described a plan for a permanent PvE experience beyond traditional PvPvE extraction gameplay. Those statements are plans and announcements, not a guarantee that every planned feature will arrive exactly as described.
Bungie’s Future of Marathon roadmap also describes plans to connect PvE, PvP and PvEvP experiences, deepen progression, add narrative and enemies, and introduce a new zone. Because roadmap items can change, verify the current state before making a purchase decision based on a future mode. The underlying point for this comparison is that Marathon is expanding beyond a single fixed extraction format, so a player’s preferred experience may change as Bungie adds or revises modes.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Read the full development announcement at Bungie’s Nightfall and Symbiosis update, and the mode-specific discussion in Welcome to Season 2. These are the appropriate references for checking whether Nightfall, progression resets or the permanent PvE plan still match the version you are considering.
Compare the games by the pressure you actually want
| If your priority is… | Better starting point | Reason | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supernatural horror in the core premise | Hunt: Showdown 1896 | Crytek describes supernatural threats as a central danger alongside other Hunters | Its setting is western supernatural fiction, not science fiction |
| Science-fiction world and Bungie’s narrative design | Marathon | Bungie built the game around world design, gameplay and discoverable narrative | Horror intensity varies by mode |
| Slower, darker survival-horror pacing | Marathon Nightfall | Bungie says Nightfall is slower than Day Marsh and includes darkness and environmental threats | Nightfall is a specific mode, not a description of all Marathon play |
| Playing alone or with friends in a horror setting | Hunt: Showdown 1896 | Crytek explicitly describes solo and friend-based play | Exact team-size details are not established here |
| Future PvE expansion beyond traditional extraction PvPvE | Marathon, subject to updates | Bungie has announced a plan for a permanent PvE experience | The announcement is forward-looking; check delivery status |
A practical decision path before you buy
- Decide whether setting or mood comes first. Choose Marathon if its science-fiction world is non-negotiable. Choose Hunt if supernatural horror and corrupted backwaters matter more than genre continuity.
- Decide whether you want horror in every session. Hunt is the more reliable fit for a horror-first brief. In Marathon, start with Nightfall when you specifically want survival-horror pacing.
- Decide how you will play. Hunt’s official description supports solo play and playing with friends. For Marathon, rely on the current platform and mode information rather than assuming the same group options.
- Check the live mode state. Marathon’s progression, rewards and planned PvE direction are changing. Review Bungie’s latest announcements before committing to a long-term progression goal.
- Buy on the platform you actually use. Bungie’s launch announcement lists Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S for Marathon. Hunt has a digital Steam listing at its store page; regional pricing, editions and availability can vary.
How to judge other “games like Marathon” claims
Search results often label any competitive shooter as a Marathon alternative. A more useful test is to score each candidate against four separate questions instead of accepting a generic genre tag.
1. Is the extraction risk real?
Look for an explicit reason to leave with what you earned and a meaningful cost for staying too long. A game with rounds and respawns may be competitive, but that alone does not establish extraction tension.
2. Are environmental threats consequential?
Horror extraction depends on more than a dark color palette. Check whether monsters, hazards, darkness or navigation problems can alter a route and compete with human opponents for your attention. Hunt passes this test through Crytek’s description of supernatural threats and other Hunters. Nightfall passes it through Bungie’s description of environmental challenges and darkness.
Recommended Free Tools
3. Can the intended group play the way it wants?
Verify solo support and friend-based play from an official source. Do not infer team rules from screenshots, trailers or a genre label.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
4. Is the comparison about current content or a roadmap?
Separate features available in the version you can play from plans for later seasons. Bungie’s permanent PvE experience and roadmap additions are explicitly future-facing, so they should influence expectations rather than be treated as delivered features.
| Evidence to verify | Why it matters | What is established here |
|---|---|---|
| Official description of threats | Confirms whether horror is structural or cosmetic | Hunt: supernatural threats and other Hunters; Marathon Nightfall: darkness and environmental threats |
| Extraction or PvPvE framing | Distinguishes extraction tension from ordinary round-based combat | Bungie describes Marathon’s traditional PvPvE extraction gameplay; the editorial match identifies Hunt as the closest supported fit |
| Solo and co-op language | Prevents recommending a game that does not fit your group | Crytek explicitly supports solo play or playing with friends for Hunt |
| Current platform listing | Confirms where you can legally obtain the game | Marathon launch platforms are Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S; Hunt has a Steam listing |
| Roadmap status | Prevents buying on an undelivered promise | Marathon’s permanent PvE experience and future additions are announced plans |
Why this list does not name a second substitute
A long list would be less useful if the additional entries were not supported by current, relevant official information. The available evidence establishes Hunt as the clearest horror-and-extraction recommendation, but it does not substantiate a second game strongly enough to present it as an equally researched choice. That is why this guide focuses on the real decision: Hunt for supernatural extraction horror, or Marathon Nightfall for a darker mode inside Marathon’s science-fiction framework.
This narrower recommendation also avoids a common mistake in “games like” articles: treating shared labels as proof of shared experience. A title can be an extraction shooter without being frightening, or a horror game without creating extraction risk. The useful overlap is the combination of environmental threat, rival players and the pressure to decide when to leave.
Platform and availability notes
Marathon’s launch announcement confirms Steam, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S as launch platforms on March 5, 2026. It does not establish every current edition, regional restriction or later platform change, so check the platform storefront before purchase.
Hunt: Showdown 1896 has a digital listing on Steam. The available information does not establish current Amazon inventory, a physical edition, regional stock or any particular retailer program. Use the official Crytek page and Steam listing for the current product and platform details.
Verdict
Pick Hunt: Showdown 1896 when your defining requirement is extraction tension wrapped in supernatural horror, whether you play alone or with friends. Pick Marathon when its science-fiction world and Bungie’s evolving narrative systems matter most, then use Nightfall when you want the slower, darker survival-horror interpretation. They overlap in pressure and atmosphere, but Hunt is the more direct answer to the specific “extraction-shooter horror” request.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
