The Developer's Troubled Shooter Marathon Is Making a Comeback
Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the news of a closed technical test set to take place soon.
A Rocky Development Journey
Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy development cycle. In October 2024, Bungie stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was re-revealed in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing resulted in negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.
Steering Clear of Controversy
Though Marathon has already seen its fair share of controversies, Bungie appears committed to ensure Marathon avoids Concord's fate. Currently, it seems the game's development is moving forward again, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling additional participants to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."
Exclusive Testing Information
Given the fact that it's a private technical test, it's understandably limited access than, say, an public test. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to October 28th — players must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:
- Apply via their platform
- Live in supported regions
- Own a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
- Join the official Discord server
- Sign an NDA via the Discord server
Application Process
Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the technical test, players must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will notify players who qualify and inform them of the next steps.
"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, prox chat, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," the studio said. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for Marathon's final version, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."
Further Details
More info about the private trial and the actual experience can be found on the game's help page. But for individuals who don't qualify for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: The developer says a official announcement on the project's status is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.
"We'll be sharing a public update on the game's progress in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.
