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

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy creation process. In October 2024, Bungie announced it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing led to mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite Marathon has already seen its portion of issues, Bungie appears determined to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it seems the project's progress is moving forward again, as Bungie just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since June of this year. 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."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a closed testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which runs from October 22nd to October 28th — players must meet the following requirements:

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

How to Apply

Registration is currently available, and to be eligible for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. Bungie will contact selected participants and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and more," Bungie said. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for the game's final version, concentrating on the early player experience."

Additional Information

Additional details about the private trial and the game itself can be found on the game's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the test (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: Bungie says a public update on the state of the game is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.

"There will be a public update on Marathon's development in the near future after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie shared.