The Developer's Troubled Action Game Marathon Shows Signs of Life
Marathon, the studio's much-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the news of a closed technical test set to run later this month.
A Challenging Path to Launch
Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, Bungie stated 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 seen its fair share of controversies, Bungie appears committed to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Now, it appears the project's progress is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, enabling additional participants to get an early look of the game via an forthcoming "closed technical test."
Technical Test Details
Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate in the technical test — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — participants must meet the listed pre-requisites:
- Apply via the official website
- Reside in supported regions
- Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
- Join 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 Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Players on Windows PC can also submit their application via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.
"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio stated. "That said, the Technical Test build is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for the game's final version, concentrating on the early player experience."
Additional Information
More info about the technical test and the game itself can be located on the game's help page. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (or cannot participate), there's still good news: The developer says a public update on the state of the game is the next thing on the agenda once the test is over.
"We'll be sharing a public update on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.