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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, the studio's much-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a exclusive testing phase set to take place soon.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, Marathon has experienced a tumultuous creation process. In October 2024, the developer announced plans were to begin alpha testing during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was re-revealed in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests led to mixed reactions, Bungie announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already encountered its portion of controversies, Bungie appears committed to ensure Marathon avoids 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 run "several closed playtests to gather feedback on the game" since this past summer. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing additional participants to get an early look of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

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

• Apply via the official website
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, players must submit their application by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Players on Windows PC can also register via the digital platform starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify selected participants and inform them of the following procedures.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, prox chat, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio stated. "However, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the game itself can be found on Marathon's help page. But for individuals who aren't selected for the test (or cannot participate), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the agenda once the trial concludes.

"We'll be sharing a public update on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.