Bungie is finally back with Marathon — its first all-new IP since Destiny 2 launched in 2017. But if the name sounds familiar, you’re not imagining things. The original Marathon series from the ‘90s earned cult status for its storytelling and gameplay — but this reboot is no remake. Instead, Bungie is diving into the fast-growing world of extraction shooters, and the hype is real. 🔥
From the new cinematic trailer to details about the closed alpha and release date, here’s everything you need to know about Bungie’s next big thing.
🗓️ Key Dates: Alpha Test & Full Release
📌 Closed Alpha Test:
- Start: April 23, 2025
- End: May 4, 2025
📌 Full Release:
- Launch Date: September 23, 2025
The two-week alpha marks a major development milestone, offering select players an early look at gameplay, systems, and mechanics — and a chance to help shape the game before its official launch.
🌎 Who Can Join the Alpha Test?
Closed alpha access is limited to players who:
- Are 18 years or older
- Reside in the United States or Canada
Why the limitation? Bungie is testing network performance regionally and gradually expanding as development continues. Players outside of NA can expect additional testing waves down the line, so stay tuned.
✅ How to Join the Marathon Alpha Test (Step-by-Step)
If you’re eligible, here’s how you can apply for the Marathon alpha:
- Join the Official Discord
👉 https://discord.com/invite/marathonthegame - Access the #alpha_access Channel
Browse the left-hand menu in Discord to find and enter this specific channel. - Use the Command
Type:/alpha
Send the command in the chat box. - Wait for Bungie’s Invite
If selected, you’ll receive an alpha invite and access code via email before the test begins. - Activate Your Code on Bungie.net
Use the access code to unlock your test build. - Play Starting April 23!
🛑 Reminder: Alpha participants will need to sign an NDA — meaning no screenshots, videos, or leaks. Yes, even if it’s super cool. 🤐
🕹️ Supported Platforms (Yes, It’s Multi-Platform!)
Whether you’re a PC purist or a console warrior, Marathon has you covered. The alpha and full game will be available on:
- 🖥️ PC (Windows)
- 🎮 PlayStation 5
- 🕹️ Xbox Series X/S
Cross-platform testing is included in the alpha — Bungie’s clearly going for wide accessibility from day one.
🔫 What Is Marathon About?
In true extraction shooter fashion, Marathon pits players against AI and each other in high-stakes raids across dangerous maps. Your goal? Collect valuable loot and make it out alive. Every run could end in glory — or a brutal loss of everything you grabbed.
With its PvPvE setup and loot-driven tension, Marathon is shaping up to be Bungie’s most competitive title yet — and a serious rival to genre giants like Escape from Tarkov or Dark and Darker.
💭 Final Thoughts: A New Era for Bungie?
The announcement of Marathon‘s alpha and full release signals a bold step forward. With a fresh genre, slick visuals, and Bungie’s signature polish, Marathon might just redefine what the studio is known for post-Destiny.
💥 Mark your calendars for April 23 — and if you’re eligible, don’t miss your shot to enter the Marathon alpha early!
