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Marathon, Bungie's highly-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a closed technical test scheduled to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, the developer announced plans were to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. A period of silence followed, until the game was re-revealed in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing led to mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite the title has already encountered its portion of issues, the development team appears committed to make certain their project doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the game's development is moving forward again, as Bungie just revealed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. 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

Considering it's a private testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — participants must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

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 Steam starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. The developer will notify selected participants and inform them of the following procedures.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," the studio said. "However, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's intended for the game's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

Additional details about the private trial and the game itself can be located on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.