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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a closed technical test scheduled to take place soon.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has experienced a bumpy development cycle. In October 2024, Bungie stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was re-revealed in April with a planned September release. However, after some playtests led to mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite the title has already seen its portion of issues, the development team appears determined to ensure Marathon doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as they just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. The studio is expanding access, enabling additional participants to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a private technical test, it's understandably limited access than, for example, an public test. To participate in the technical test — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Apply via the official website
• Reside in Europe or North America
• Own a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the Discord server

Application Process

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

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," Bungie stated. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for Marathon's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Additional Information

More info about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on Marathon's help page. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the state of the game 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 coming months after the private testing phase!" Bungie shared.