After being caught in a plagiarism storm, "Marathon" was forced to undergo large-scale rework and was eventually postponed to 2026.Previously, Sony's financial report confirmed that this FPS is planned to be released in its fiscal year 2025, with the latest no later than March 31, 2026.However, this time may still be adjusted due to development progress.

Bungie is said to be preparing to conduct the largest test to date for Marathon for 30 days, with some invited players participating continuously.In addition, Sony also uses reward measures to stimulate players' participation, promising that any player who plays for one hour a day during the test will receive a gift card worth $500.

According to The Game Post, Sony has sent emails to some players, inviting them to participate in a remote Marathon 30-day test, from September 8 to October 7, 2025.Bungie will collect feedback through daily and weekly questionnaires during the test period.

Bungie wrote in the email: "We sincerely invite you to join the 30-day user research plan of Marathon!"

Participants who can play for at least one hour a day between 3:00 and 7:00 PM Pacific Time and 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM on weekends will be eligible for a gift card reward worth $500.If only partial tests are completed, you can only receive limited rewards.

After the test is completed, participants will receive a $500 gift card (the type can be selected by themselves) to thank them for their valuable time and feedback.

Despite this, many players still believe that this reward measure looks more like a "desperate move" that Bungie had to take after the severe decline in community enthusiasm.