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Marathon, the studio's much-anticipated project, has reared its head again with the announcement of a closed technical test set to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous creation process. Last fall, the developer announced plans were to start Alpha tests during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, after some playtests led to mixed reactions, the studio announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite the title has already encountered its fair share of controversies, Bungie appears determined to ensure their project doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it seems the game's development is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The studio is expanding access, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — participants must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, applicants must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also submit their application via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will contact selected participants and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio said. "However, the current version is a development build and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on the game's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (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 schedule once the trial concludes.

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