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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has reared its head again with the announcement of a closed technical test scheduled to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

Initially revealed during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has experienced a bumpy creation process. In October 2024, the developer announced plans were to start Alpha tests during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the game was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, after some playtests resulted in mixed reactions, the studio revealed during summer that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though the title has already encountered its fair share of controversies, the development team appears determined to make certain their project avoids the same outcome as other games. Currently, it seems the game's development is moving forward again, as Bungie just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on the game" since this past summer. The developer is expanding access, allowing additional participants to get an early look of the experience via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a closed testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To gain access in the technical test — which runs from October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — participants must meet the following pre-requisites:

• Submit an application via their platform
• Reside in Europe or North America
• Own a PlayStation 5, Xbox console, or compatible computer (system requirements include an Intel Core i5-6600 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the online community

How to Apply

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, players 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 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 is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, several character options, prox chat, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and more," Bungie stated. "That said, the Technical Test build 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."

Additional Information

More info about the technical test and the game itself can be located on the game's help page. But for individuals who don't qualify for the trial (or cannot participate), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the state of the game is the following item on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a public update on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" The studio announced.