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Marathon, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the news of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has experienced a tumultuous creation process. Last fall, Bungie stated plans were to start Alpha tests during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests led to negative feedback, Bungie announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though Marathon has already seen its fair share of controversies, the development team appears committed to make certain their project doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it seems the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to gather feedback on Marathon" since June of this year. The studio is expanding access, enabling more players to get an early look of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a closed technical test, it's understandably limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to October 28th — participants must meet the following requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Join their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

How to Apply

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the private trial, applicants must complete registration by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will contact selected participants and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio stated. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the early player experience."

Further Details

Additional details about the private trial and the actual experience can be found on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio shared.