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

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has undergone a bumpy development cycle. In October 2024, Bungie announced plans were to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was re-revealed in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests resulted in mixed reactions, Bungie announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already encountered its fair share of issues, Bungie appears determined to make certain Marathon avoids Concord's fate. Currently, it seems the project's progress is moving forward again, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to gather feedback on Marathon" since this past summer. The studio is expanding access, enabling more players to catch a glimpse of the game via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, say, an public test. To gain access in the technical test — which runs from October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the listed requirements:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Reside in Europe or North America
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, players must submit their application 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 Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will contact selected participants and inform them of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, prox chat, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio said. "However, the Technical Test build is a work in progress 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 actual experience can be found on the game's help page. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.