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Marathon, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the news of a closed technical test scheduled to begin in October.

A Challenging Path to Launch

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has experienced a tumultuous development cycle. In October 2024, Bungie announced it was aiming to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. A period of silence followed, until the game was re-revealed in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite Marathon has already seen its fair share of controversies, the development team appears committed to ensure their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as they just revealed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, allowing additional participants to get an early look of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an public test. To participate in the technical test — which runs from October 22nd to October 28th — participants must meet the listed requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Join their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the technical test, applicants must complete registration by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. PC users can also register via Steam starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify selected participants and inform them of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio stated. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a selection of what's planned for the game's full release, concentrating on the early player experience."

Further Details

More info about the technical test and the game itself can be located on Marathon's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.