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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the announcement of a closed technical test set to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. In October 2024, the developer stated plans were to start Alpha tests 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 resulted in mixed reactions, Bungie revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite the title has already encountered its fair share of controversies, the development team appears committed to ensure Marathon avoids the same outcome as other games. Now, it appears the game's development is moving forward again, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to gather feedback on the game" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling more players to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private technical test, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an public test. To gain access in the technical test — which takes place between October 22nd to October 28th — participants must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:

• Apply via the official website
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, applicants must submit their application by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Players on Windows PC can also register via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. Bungie will notify selected participants 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, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," the studio stated. "However, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's intended for the game's final version, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on Marathon's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or cannot participate), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the state of the game is the following item on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.