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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, the studio's much-anticipated project, has resurfaced 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 undergone a tumultuous creation process. Last fall, the developer announced it was aiming to begin alpha testing during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was re-revealed in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests resulted in mixed reactions, the studio announced in June that it was postponing the game's launch.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Though the title has already seen its fair share of controversies, the development team appears determined to make certain their project doesn't suffer the same outcome as other games. Now, it seems 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 June of this year. The studio is expanding access, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Technical Test Details

Considering it's a private technical test, it's understandably more exclusive than, say, an public test. To participate in the exclusive trial — which takes place between October 22nd to Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. PDT — participants must meet the following requirements:

• Apply via their platform
• Live in supported regions
• Own a PS5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (minimum PC specs include an compatible CPU, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU, and sufficient memory)
• Participate in their community platform
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

Application Process

Applications are open now, and to be eligible for the private trial, applicants must complete registration by Oct. 16 at 4 p.m. PDT. Players on Windows PC can also register via the digital platform starting on October 13th, with digital platform registrations due by Oct. 26 at 4 p.m. PDT. The developer will notify selected participants and inform them of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since the game's Alpha, including multiple locations, five runner shells, proximity communication, adjusted gameplay rhythm, solo queue, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," the studio said. "That said, the Technical Test build is a work in progress and will only include a selection of what's intended for the game's final version, concentrating on the early player experience."

Additional Information

More info about the private trial and the game itself can be found on Marathon's help page. But for players 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 next thing on the schedule once the trial concludes.

"There will be a comprehensive report on Marathon's development in the coming months after the Closed Technical Test!" Bungie shared.