🔗 Share this article

The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated game, has made a reappearance with the announcement of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to begin in October.

A Challenging Path to Launch

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, Bungie stated plans were to begin alpha testing during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though Marathon 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 appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as Bungie 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 get an early look 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, say, an open beta. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which runs from October 22nd to October 28th — players must satisfy the following requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, 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 online community

Application Process

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the technical test, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. Bungie will notify players who qualify and inform them of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, prox chat, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio stated. "However, the current version is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the early player experience."

Additional Information

More info about the technical test and the game itself can be found on the game's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the trial (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"We'll be sharing a public update on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" Bungie shared.