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Marathon, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has reared its head again with the news of a exclusive testing phase set to run later this month.

A Challenging Path to Launch

Initially revealed during the 2023 PlayStation Showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy creation process. Last fall, Bungie stated it was aiming to begin alpha testing during the coming year. A period of silence followed, until the game was re-revealed in April with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, the studio revealed during summer that it was postponing the game's launch.

Avoiding Past Mistakes

Though Marathon has already encountered its portion of issues, Bungie appears committed to make certain their project doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it seems the project's progress 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 studio is expanding access, enabling additional participants to get an early look of the game via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Given the fact that it's a closed testing phase, it's understandably limited access than, say, an public test. To participate in the exclusive trial — which runs from Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to October 28th — players must meet the listed pre-requisites:

• Apply via their platform
• Reside in supported regions
• Have access to a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by October 26th. 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 Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and additional features," Bungie said. "That said, the Technical Test build is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what's intended for Marathon's full release, focused on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

Additional details about the technical test and the game itself can be located on the game's support section. But for players who aren't selected for the trial (or don't have time), there's still good news: Bungie says a public update on the project's status is the next thing on the schedule once the test is over.

"There will be a comprehensive report on the game's progress in the near future after the private testing phase!" The studio shared.