The Developer's Troubled Shooter Project Marathon Is Making a Comeback

Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has experienced a bumpy creation process. Last fall, Bungie stated it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. A period of silence followed, until the game was re-revealed in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests led to mixed reactions, Bungie revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though the title has already encountered its portion of controversies, Bungie appears determined to ensure their project avoids Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to gather feedback on the game" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, allowing additional participants to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "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 exclusive trial — which runs from October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the listed requirements:

• Submit an application via their platform
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Join the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the technical test, players must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. Bungie will notify selected participants and inform them of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio stated. "However, the current version is a development build and will only include a selection of what's planned for the game's full release, focused on the early player experience."

Additional Information

Additional details about the technical test and the game itself can be located on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the trial (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.