The Developer's Challenged Action Game Marathon Is Gaining Momentum

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

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has experienced a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, Bungie announced it was aiming to begin alpha testing during the coming year. 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 revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already seen its portion of controversies, the development team appears determined to ensure Marathon avoids Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing additional participants to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a private testing phase, it's naturally more exclusive than, say, an public test. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Reside in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the private trial, players must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via Steam starting on October 13th, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"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, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," Bungie stated. "However, the Technical Test build 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."

Additional Information

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be found on the game's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a public update on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.