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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a exclusive testing phase set to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a bumpy development cycle. Last fall, Bungie stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite Marathon has already encountered its fair share of issues, Bungie appears determined to ensure their project avoids Concord's fate. Now, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as they just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. The developer is expanding access, enabling more players to get an early look of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a closed technical test, it's naturally more exclusive than, for example, an open beta. To participate in the technical test — which takes place between October 22nd to October 28th — players must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, applicants must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also submit their application via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will notify players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," the studio stated. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for Marathon's final version, focused on the early player experience."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the game itself can be located on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: Bungie says a public update on the state of the game is the following item 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 Closed Technical Test!" Bungie announced.