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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the announcement of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. In October 2024, the developer stated plans were to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing resulted in mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Despite Marathon has already encountered its fair share of issues, the development team appears committed to ensure their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as they just revealed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The studio is expanding access, allowing more players to get an early look of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a private testing phase, it's understandably more exclusive than, for example, an open beta. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must satisfy the following requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Join their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, applicants must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. Players on Windows PC can also register via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer 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 multiple locations, several character options, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie stated. "That said, the current version is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's planned for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who aren't selected for the test (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: Bungie says a official announcement on the state of the game is the next thing on the schedule once the trial concludes.

"We'll be sharing a public update on the game's progress in the near future after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie announced.