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The upcoming sci-fi extraction shooter, the studio's highly-anticipated game, has made a reappearance with the announcement of a exclusive testing phase scheduled to begin in October.

A Rocky Development Journey

First announced during the 2023 gaming showcase, the game has undergone a bumpy development cycle. Last fall, the developer stated it was aiming to start Alpha tests during the coming year. This was followed by quiet months, until the project was showcased again in spring with a Sept. 23 launch date. However, after some playtests resulted in negative feedback, the studio announced in June that it was delaying Marathon indefinitely.

Steering Clear of Controversy

Despite the title has already encountered its portion of controversies, the development team appears determined to make certain Marathon doesn't suffer Concord's fate. Currently, it appears the game's development is finally getting back on track, as they just disclosed that it has conducted multiple private tests to collect player input on Marathon" since this past summer. The studio is expanding access, allowing more players to catch a glimpse of the experience via an upcoming "closed technical test."

Exclusive Testing Information

Considering it's a private testing phase, it's naturally limited access than, say, an open beta. To participate 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:

• Apply via the official website
• Live in supported regions
• Have access to a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X or S, or compatible computer (system requirements include an compatible CPU, supported graphics card, and 8GB RAM)
• Participate in the official Discord server
• Complete confidentiality agreement via the online community

Application Process

Registration is currently available, and to be considered for the private trial, players must submit their application by the October 16th deadline. PC users can also submit their application 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. Bungie will contact selected participants and inform them of the next steps.

"This is an important checkpoint for us as we evaluate enhancements since Marathon's Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, proximity communication, re-tuned combat pacing, individual matchmaking, enhanced narrative elements, and additional features," Bungie stated. "That said, the Technical Test build is a development build and will only include a portion of what's planned for Marathon's final version, concentrating on the initial gameplay moments."

Further Details

More info about the private trial and the actual experience can be located on Marathon's support section. But for players who don't qualify for the trial (or cannot participate), there's positive developments: Bungie says a official announcement on the project's status is the following item on the agenda once the trial concludes.

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