PlayStation Studios head Hermen Hulst acknowledges “varied” feedback from closed alpha but “that’s why you do this testing.”
After controversy regarding the unauthorized use of an independent artist’s assets, Bungie has been relatively quiet about Marathon. A new trailer was allegedly for June alongside pre-orders opening, but marketing plans were seemingly shelved. While a delay is possible, Sony remains excited about the game, doom and gloom aside.
In the latest Fireside Chat, PlayStation Studios head Hermen Hulst commented on feedback from the closed alpha, calling it “varied.” However, the company wants to give it the “optimal chance” at success when the launch rolls around.
“For Marathon, it’s our goal to release a very bold, very innovative and deeply engaging title. It’s going to be the first new Bungie title in over a decade, so we are really excited for that release,” said Hulst. “Going through the test cycle, we’re monitoring the Closed Alpha that the team have just gone through. We’re taking all the lessons learned, and we’re using the capabilities we’ve built to understand how audiences are engaging with the title.
“Some of that feedback, frankly, has been varied. But that’s super useful; that’s why you do this testing. When launch comes, we’re going to give the title the optimal chance at success. This cycle of test, iterate, test again, it’s such a key component of the live service success, both leading up to launch but also throughout the life of the game.”
Of course, when the next beta could occur is anyone’s guess. Bungie is reportedly working on a public test roadmap, but there are still several unknowns (including the price). At the very least, it could open pre-orders at Gamescom in August, especially with the extraction shooter launching the month after. How much of a chance it will receive remains to be seen, especially with success allegedly hinging on a spot among the top five best-selling games of 2025 for the United States.
Marathon launches on September 23rd for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC.
