In an unexpected twist during a panel at the Emerald City Comic Con 2026, actor Ben Starr sparked conversation about the upcoming Bungie title Marathon, suggesting it could snag the coveted Game of the Year award. As first reported by Push Square, Starr humorously attributed this bold prediction to the significant presence of his co-star, Jennifer English, in the game’s voice cast.
Starr, known for his role in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, expressed confidence in Marathon’s potential to outperform heavyweights like Grand Theft Auto 6. During the panel, he mentioned a playful phenomenon circulating on Reddit dubbed the “Jennifer English Effect.” This notion humorously posits that English’s involvement in a project elevates its quality and relevance, a sentiment that resonated with fans and attendees alike.
The excitement surrounding Marathon stems not only from its star-studded cast but also from its return to the FPS genre, a hallmark for Bungie, the studio renowned for iconic titles like Halo and Destiny. With Marathon, Bungie aims to blend its rich narrative design with competitive multiplayer elements, creating a unique blend that appeals to both story-driven gamers and those seeking adrenaline-fueled matches.
Starr’s remarks sparked a lively discussion among fans, many of whom are eagerly anticipating the game’s release. The actor’s playful jab at GTA 6, a title already generating massive hype, showcases the kind of light-hearted banter that often characterizes gaming fandom. While Rockstar’s franchise has a storied legacy and an immense player base, the novelty of Marathon’s return after years of dormancy creates a fresh narrative for players to explore.
While how Marathon will perform against established titles like GTA 6, the fervor surrounding its development indicates it could carve out a significant niche in the landscape of narrative-driven games. With a well-crafted story, engaging characters, and robust gameplay mechanics, Marathon could indeed surprise players and critics alike.
As fans await more news from Bungie about Marathon, Starr’s predictions add to the anticipation. Whether or not the “Jennifer English Effect” holds true remains a playful speculation among fans, but it undeniably highlights the excitement surrounding this upcoming title.
Bungie has consistently pushed the envelope in storytelling and game design, and with Marathon, they could very well deliver another memorable experience for players. As the gaming world looks forward to the next installment of their multiplayer endeavors, Marathon’s unique blend of narrative and competition promises to be a noteworthy entry for 2026.
Image credit: Push Square
This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.
