Bungie has officially revealed the highly anticipated gameplay for Marathon for the first time. At a recent showcase, the studio provided extensive insights into the game's features and showcased creators playing live. Fans are buzzing with excitement as the release date for Marathon has been announced: September 23, 2025. Interestingly, this date coincides with the release of Borderlands 4, which raises eyebrows among gamers. However, it appears Bungie strategically chose this date to navigate around the launch of GTA 6, given that Take-Two also publishes Borderlands.
In addition to the full release date, Bungie has also shared details about the upcoming Closed Alpha, set to run from April 23 to May 4. This is an exciting opportunity for players eager to experience Marathon ahead of its official launch. Currently, keys are being distributed, and sign-ups are live. If you haven't secured a key yet, here's how to sign up:
Enter the command /alpha in any of our Discord channels. You will receive a private message in that channel. Follow the instructions provided in the message, including a unique sign-up link. If selected, expect an email from marathonthegame@info.bungie.net. We recommend adding this email to your contacts to avoid it landing in spam (codes will be sent out a few days before launch).It's important to remember that the sign-up process is Discord-based, enhancing the community’s engagement with the game.
While the excitement around the Closed Alpha is palpable, there are some restrictions to bear in mind. The playtest is shrouded under a strict NDA, prohibiting any streaming or sharing of gameplay content. Additionally, receiving a priority code does not guarantee access; it merely increases your chances of being selected.
This North American Technical Test may have limited functionality and slower matchmaking for players outside of North America. Moreover, PlayStation codes are region-locked to North and South America. Participants will receive two friend codes for priority access, but again, this does not assure entry into the playtest.
Given the proximity of the Closed Alpha to the official launch, many are left curious about the decision to implement a North American-centric, NDA-protected alpha test. It raises questions about the potential for an open alpha or beta phase before the full release. While it’s possible that Bungie has plans for additional testing, the current model leaves some fans pondering why an open test wasn’t conducted from the start.
As players gear up to try their luck with the Closed Alpha, it’s essential to keep in mind that access may be limited, and sharing any details about the gameplay is off the table. For those who are not selected, patience will be key as they await more open opportunities to experience Marathon.
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