🔗 Share this article

Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the announcement of a closed technical test scheduled to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous 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 spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already encountered its fair share of issues, the development team appears determined to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the game's development is moving forward again, 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 get an early look of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an public test. To gain access in the technical test — which runs from October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Join the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, applicants 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 notify selected participants and provide details of the next steps.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," the studio said. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for the game's full release, concentrating on the early player experience."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the game itself can be found on Marathon's help page. But for players who aren't selected for the test (or cannot participate), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the next thing on the schedule once the test is over.

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