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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has resurfaced with the announcement of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to begin in October.

A Challenging Path to Launch

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous development cycle. Last fall, the developer stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests 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 resulted in mixed reactions, Bungie announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already seen its fair share of issues, the development team appears committed to ensure their project doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Now, it appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as they just revealed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The studio is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling additional participants to catch a glimpse of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a closed technical test, it's naturally limited access than, for example, an public test. To participate in the technical test — which runs from October 22nd to October 28th — players must meet the listed requirements:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via Steam starting on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. PDT, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. The developer will notify players who qualify and provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio said. "However, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the early player experience."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the actual experience can be located on Marathon's support section. But for individuals who don't qualify for the test (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: Bungie says a official announcement on the state of the game is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.

"We'll be sharing a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the near future after the private testing phase!" Bungie announced.