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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has resurfaced with the news of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to run later this month.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed 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 project was re-revealed in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests led to negative feedback, the studio revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though the title has already seen its portion of controversies, Bungie appears determined to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Now, it seems the game's development is moving forward again, as they just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to gather feedback on Marathon" since this past summer. The studio is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, for example, an public test. To gain access in the technical test — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — players must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via their platform
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox console, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the Discord server

Application Process

Registration is currently available, and to be eligible for the technical test, applicants must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via Steam starting on October 13th, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will notify 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 multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," the studio stated. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's full release, focused on the early player experience."

Additional Information

Additional details about the technical test and the game itself can be located on Marathon's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: The developer says a public update on the state of the game is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio shared.