Bungie launches closed alpha testing of Marathon, one of the most talked about and controversial games right now
Yes, this is not a flashback from the 90s - the legendary shooter Marathon is back. Bungie has officially launched closed alpha testing of its new project, and if you thought it would be another Destiny clone, think again. It is not about space magic but about survival, sweat, and pixelated blood on iron walls.
Here's What We Know
Marathon is not just another PvP shooter. It's an action shooter in a sci-fi setting where players take on the role of cybernetic mercenaries known as Runners. Their task is to explore the dead planet Tau Seti IV, search for artefacts, gather resources, and, of course, get out alive. If you can.
The original Marathon was released back in 1994 as one of the first "shooters with a story". In the new release, Bungie decided to make a complete rebranding: the plot, atmosphere, and mechanics are all new, but it will continue the lore of the previous parts.
The alpha testing is closed and only for North America. Bungie confirmed that at this stage it wants to test the basic mechanics, balance, and reaction of a small group of selected players. Nevertheless, the studio has removed the NDA, so no one forbids sharing impressions and recording videos or streams.
The main bet is on the survival economy: every mission is a risk, every loot found is worth its weight in gold, because you can lose it when you leave. The player decides when to leave the mission. And don't forget: other Runners are not your friends.
Bungie promises that there will be more open testing in the future, but the dates have not yet been revealed.
And so far, the audience has not been very warm to the game, but maybe more impressions from the players themselves and their videos will change everything.
The alpha will last until 4 May on PC, Xbox Series, and PlayStation 5. The full release will take place on 23 September.
