In the middle of 2025, Bungie ran several alpha tests for Marathon, their upcoming shooter game, and even launched an ARG to get players excited for its originally planned release date for this year. However, Bungie announced that it had been delayed so that they could work out existing issues, and stated that a new release date would be announced in the fall.
We’re basically in the fall now, and with Marathon getting a closed technical test, this could be a sign that Bungie may almost be ready to announce the game’s new release date. Before that, though, Bungie states that this test is an “important checkpoint” for the game, as Bungie is planning on using it to test the improvements they’ve made since the last alpha.
“This is an important checkpoint for us as we test our improvements since Alpha, including three maps, five runner shells, prox chat, re-tuned combat pacing, solo queue, deeper environmental storytelling, and more. 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, focused on the early player experience.”
In addition to that, players will need to sign up for the closed technical test on Bungie’s website. Applications are open now, and will close on Oct. 16, at 4 p.m. Pacific Time. The test itself will run from Oct. 22 to 28. Even if you had previously participated in the alpha, you’ll still need to sign up for the technical test for a chance to get in. Players will also need to sign NDAs to participate, and no streaming or recording will be allowed.
Bungie had come under fire a few months ago when artist Antireal took to Twitter/X to point out that her own art had been plagiarized and used within Marathon‘s assets without her permission. Bungie responded and apologized, though fans were quick to point out that this was far from the first time that the studio had stolen art in their games.
Marathon does not have a release date, but it is planned for a console and PC release.
