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Marathon, the studio's much-anticipated project, has resurfaced with the announcement of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a tumultuous creation process. Last fall, the developer stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the project was showcased again in spring with a planned September release. However, following initial testing led to mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already seen its fair share of issues, Bungie appears committed to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as they just disclosed that it has run "several closed playtests to collect player input on the game" since June of this year. The developer is opening the doors a bit wider, enabling more players to get an early look of the game via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an public test. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which runs from October 22nd to October 28th — players must satisfy the listed pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Live in Europe or North America
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Sign an NDA via the Discord server

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the private trial, applicants must complete registration by the October 16th deadline. 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 provide details of the following procedures.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we test our improvements since Marathon's Alpha, including multiple locations, several character options, prox chat, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more," 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 initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the technical test and the game itself can be found on the game's support section. But for individuals who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: The developer says a official announcement on the state of the game is the following item on the schedule once the test is over.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the private testing phase!" The studio announced.