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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, Bungie's highly-anticipated project, has made a reappearance with the announcement of a closed technical test set to take place soon.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, Marathon has experienced a bumpy creation process. Last fall, Bungie announced plans were to start Alpha tests sometime in 2025. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in April with a planned September release. However, following initial testing led to mixed reactions, the studio announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite Marathon has already encountered its portion of issues, the development team appears committed to make certain their project doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the project's progress is moving forward again, as Bungie just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since June of this year. The studio is opening the doors a bit wider, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the game via an forthcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Given the fact that it's a private technical test, it's understandably limited access than, say, an public test. To gain access in the exclusive trial — which takes place between Oct. 22 at 10 a.m. PDT to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — players must satisfy the listed requirements:

• Submit an application via the official website
• Reside in Europe or North America
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or Windows PC (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Sign an NDA via the Discord server

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be considered for the technical test, applicants must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with Steam applications due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. Bungie will contact players who qualify and provide details of the next steps.

"This represents a crucial milestone for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and more," the studio said. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a selection of what's planned for Marathon's full release, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the technical test and the game itself 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 public update on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the test is over.

"There will be a public update on Marathon's development in the near future after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie announced.