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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has made a reappearance with the announcement of a closed technical test set to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, Bungie announced it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the game was showcased again in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests led to negative feedback, the studio announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though Marathon has already encountered its portion of controversies, the development team appears committed to ensure their project doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Now, it seems the game's development is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, allowing additional participants to catch a glimpse of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a private testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, for example, an public test. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which runs from 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 the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with Steam applications due by October 26th. Bungie will contact selected participants and inform them of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint 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 stated. "That said, the Technical Test build 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."

Additional Information

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

"We'll be sharing a public update on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio shared.