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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, 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 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, Bungie stated plans were to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was re-revealed in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing led to negative feedback, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite the title has already seen its portion of controversies, the development team appears committed to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as Bungie just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing additional participants to get an early look of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed technical test, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the technical test — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the listed pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox console, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, players must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by October 26th. The developer will notify selected participants and provide details of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie said. "However, the current version 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."

Additional Information

Additional details about the private trial and the actual experience can be found on Marathon's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the test (or cannot participate), there's still good news: The developer says a official announcement on the state of the game is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a public update on the game's progress in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.