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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's much-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a closed technical test set to run later this month.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, Bungie stated plans were to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was re-revealed in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing led to negative feedback, the studio announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though the title has already encountered its portion of issues, the development team appears determined to ensure their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as Bungie just revealed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. The developer is expanding access, enabling additional participants to get an early look of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private technical test, it's naturally more exclusive than, say, an open beta. To gain access in the technical test — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — participants must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Apply via the official website
• Reside in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox console, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

How to Apply

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the private trial, players must complete registration by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. PC users can also submit their application via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie stated. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's planned for the game's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the actual experience 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: The developer says a official announcement on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.