The Developer's Challenged Action Game Project Marathon Is Gaining Momentum
Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the announcement of a closed technical test scheduled to take place soon.
A Challenging Path to Launch
Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy creation process. In October 2024, the developer announced plans were to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.
Steering Clear of Controversy
Despite the title has already encountered its portion of controversies, Bungie appears determined to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Now, it seems the project's progress 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 developer is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."
Technical Test Details
Given the fact that it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally more exclusive 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 — participants must meet the listed requirements:
- Submit an application via the official website
- Live in Europe or North America
- Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, 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 online community
Application Process
Registration is currently available, and to be eligible for the technical test, players must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also submit their application via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by October 26th. Bungie will contact selected participants and provide details of the next steps.
"This is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio stated. "However, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for the game's full release, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."
Additional Information
More info about the private trial and the actual experience can be found on the game's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the state of the game is the next thing on the schedule 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!" Bungie announced.
