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Marathon, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has resurfaced with the news of a closed technical test scheduled to take place soon.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. In October 2024, the developer stated it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in mixed reactions, Bungie announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though Marathon has already seen its portion of issues, Bungie appears committed to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Now, it seems the game's development is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's naturally more exclusive than, for example, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — participants must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Join the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Registration is currently available, and to be eligible for the private trial, applicants must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also submit their application via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, prox chat, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio said. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's planned for the game's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the technical test and the game itself can be located on Marathon's help page. But for individuals who don't qualify for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"There will be a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio shared.