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Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the news of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to run later this month.

A Challenging Path to Launch

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has experienced a tumultuous development cycle. In October 2024, the developer stated plans were to begin alpha testing during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the game was re-revealed in April with a planned September release. However, after some playtests resulted in mixed reactions, Bungie announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite the title has already encountered its portion of issues, the development team appears committed to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Currently, it seems the game's development is moving forward again, as Bungie just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to gather feedback on Marathon" since June of this year. The developer is expanding access, enabling more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's understandably more exclusive than, for example, an public test. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — players must meet the listed pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Join the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, applicants must complete registration 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 October 26th. Bungie will contact selected participants and provide details of the next steps.

"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, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and more," Bungie stated. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's final version, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Additional Information

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be found on Marathon's help page. But for players who aren't selected for the test (or don't have time), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the state of the game is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio announced.