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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the news of a closed technical test scheduled to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, the developer stated it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though Marathon has already encountered its portion of controversies, Bungie appears committed to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to gather feedback on the game" since this past summer. The studio is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an open beta. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to October 28th — players must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the technical test, 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 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 is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie said. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's planned for the game's final version, focused on the early player experience."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the game itself can be located on the game's help page. But for players who don't qualify for the trial (or don't have time), there's positive developments: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.