🔗 Share this article

Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the announcement of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy development cycle. In October 2024, the developer announced it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, after some playtests led to mixed reactions, the studio announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though Marathon has already encountered its fair share of controversies, the development team appears committed to make certain their project avoids Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since June of this year. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing additional participants to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a closed technical test, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the listed requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Join their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, players must complete registration by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact players who qualify and inform them of the next steps.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, prox chat, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie stated. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's final version, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the actual experience can be found on Marathon's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: Bungie says a official announcement on the state of the game is the next thing on the schedule once the trial concludes.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the near future after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie shared.