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

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has experienced a bumpy development cycle. In October 2024, the developer announced plans were to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing led to negative feedback, Bungie revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already encountered its fair share of issues, the development team appears committed to ensure Marathon doesn't suffer Concord's fate. 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 the game" 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 forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, for example, an public test. To participate in the exclusive trial — which runs from October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must meet the listed requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Join the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also register via Steam starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. Bungie will notify players who qualify and provide details of the next steps.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and more," Bungie said. "However, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a selection of what's planned 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 the game's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the test (or don't have time), there's positive developments: The developer says a public update on the project's status is the following item on the schedule once the trial concludes.

"There will be a public update on the game's progress in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.