Marathon’s Closed Alpha Leaks: Visual Improvements and New Additions Revealed

Bungie’s highly anticipated sci-fi extraction shooter, Marathon, has been making waves with its recent closed alpha test. Although the test was initially under NDA, Bungie has since lifted the agreement, allowing players to share their feedback and footage online.

Visual Improvements and New Additions

Leaks from the closed alpha test have shown significant visual improvements, including refined lighting, materials, and geometry to improve outdoor visuals. Character models have also received attention, with weekly meetings dedicated to improving model quality and materials. Additionally, new maps are on the horizon, including arenas such as Outpost and UESC Marathon.

Bungie’s Approach to Closed Alpha Testing

Bungie has defined the closed alpha test as a “true closed technical test of Marathon,” meaning players will be playing an incomplete version of the game. The primary goal is to test technical capabilities and the moment-to-moment gameplay loop. By lifting the NDA, Bungie is allowing players to share their thoughts, feedback, and footage, providing valuable insights into the game’s development.

The Road to Launch

The closed alpha test ran from April23,2025, to May4,2025, and provided a curated, limited slice of systems and content. With the NDA lifted, players can now share their experiences online, including streaming. The feedback and footage shared during this period will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final product.

Marathon’s Development Journey

Marathon has been through a bit of a rollercoaster since its announcement, with mixed feedback during the early stages of development. However, the recent closed alpha test has shown promising signs, with visual improvements and new additions being well-received.

Key Takeaways

• Bungie has lifted the NDA for the Marathon closed alpha test, allowing players to share their feedback and footage online.
• Leaks have shown significant visual improvements, including refined lighting, materials, and geometry.
• Character models have received attention, with weekly meetings dedicated to improving model quality and materials.
• New maps are on the horizon, including arenas such as Outpost and UESC Marathon.
• The closed alpha test provided a curated, limited slice of systems and content, and ran from April23,2025, to May4,2025.
• The feedback and footage shared during this period will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final product.