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Marathon, the studio's much-anticipated game, has made a reappearance with the news of a exclusive testing phase set to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, Bungie stated it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though the title has already seen its fair share of issues, the development team appears determined to ensure their project avoids Concord's fate. Now, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as they just revealed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on Marathon" since June of this year. The studio is expanding access, enabling more players to get an early look of the game via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, for example, an public test. To participate in the technical test — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must satisfy the following requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Reside in Europe or North America
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, applicants must submit their application by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. 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 contact players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," Bungie said. "That said, the current version is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for the game's final version, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Additional Information

Additional details about the private trial and the game itself can be located on Marathon's help page. But for individuals who don't qualify for the test (or don't have time), there's positive developments: The developer says a official announcement on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie announced.