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

A Challenging Path to Launch

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has experienced a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, the developer stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the game was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already seen its portion of controversies, the development team appears committed to ensure their project avoids Concord's fate. Now, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing more players to get an early look of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an open beta. To participate in the technical test — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — participants must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Join the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, applicants must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also submit their application via Steam starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify players who qualify and inform them of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio stated. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for the game's final version, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."

Additional Information

Additional details about the private trial and the actual experience can be located on the game's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the following item 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 shared.