Bungie's Challenged Action Game Marathon Is Making a Comeback

Marathon, Bungie's much-anticipated project, has resurfaced with the news of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to take place soon.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy creation process. Last fall, Bungie announced it was aiming to begin alpha testing sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was re-revealed in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, following initial testing led to mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite the title has already encountered its portion of issues, Bungie appears committed to ensure Marathon doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it seems the game's development is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to gather feedback on Marathon" since June of this year. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling additional participants to get an early look of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a private technical test, it's naturally 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 — participants must satisfy the following requirements:

• Apply via the official website
• Reside 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)
• Join their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, applicants must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will contact selected participants and provide details of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," Bungie said. "That said, the current version is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for the game's full release, focused on the early player experience."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be found on the game's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the test (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status 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 near future after the private testing phase!" Bungie announced.