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Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the announcement of a closed technical test set to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has experienced a bumpy creation process. In October 2024, Bungie announced it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already encountered its fair share of issues, the development team appears committed to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the game's development is moving forward again, as they just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The studio is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling additional participants to catch a glimpse of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed technical test, it's understandably limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the technical test — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — participants must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Live in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact selected participants and inform them of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," the studio said. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for Marathon's final version, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Additional Information

More info about the private trial and the game itself can be found on the game's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the schedule once the trial concludes.

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