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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the announcement of a closed technical test scheduled to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has experienced a bumpy creation process. Last fall, the developer announced plans were to begin alpha testing during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, the studio announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already encountered its fair share of controversies, the development team appears committed to make certain their project avoids Concord's fate. Now, it seems the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, enabling additional participants to get an early look 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 more exclusive than, say, an open beta. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — players must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in supported regions
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

How to Apply

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 the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact selected participants and provide details of the next steps.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, prox chat, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," the studio said. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for the game's final version, concentrating on the early player experience."

Additional Information

More info about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on the game's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the next thing on the schedule once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a public update on the game's progress in the near future after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio announced.