Marathon's Closed Alpha Test | Major Changes Ahead for Players
Edited By
Dominic Crown
Developers behind Marathon extended a warm thank you to players who joined its community or signed up for the Alpha. A significant decision to remove the NDA from this Closed Alpha Test is set to create waves as feedback becomes open and accessible from April 23.
What's New in the Alpha?
Following the Alpha reveal, developers confirmed that this test focuses on testing technical capabilities and gameplay loops. Players will experience an incomplete version of the game, emphasizing enhanced community feedback.
"We plan to break stuff."
This aligns with their goal to engage with players about various in-game elements, including:
Weapons and gunplay
Maps and survival mechanics
Build crafting and Runners’ kits
Early-game progression, including factions and contracts
PvP and PvE engagements
Not Everything's Included
Despite the excitement, developers reminded players that the Alpha does not represent the finished game. Key exclusions include:
Complete visuals and UI
All Runners and zones
Final weapons and progression systems
Fully implemented narrative elements
Community Reactions
Sentiment in community boards fluctuates. A few players shared how Alpha gameplay didn’t seem too punishing, with one noting, "Wipes aren't uber punishing since getting to blue gear is easy." Another lamented, "This just isn’t for me," indicating mixed opinions.
Main Themes from Player Comments
Player Experience: Many are eager to test the game, citing thrilling elements reminiscent of past gameplay experiences.
Feedback Readiness: Users are excited to share their observations, especially regarding gameplay mechanics.
Concerns about Limitation: Some players express doubts about the lack of complete features, suggesting it might impact overall enjoyment.
Key Highlights
🟢 Community feedback actively encouraged despite testing limitations.
⛔ Developers emphasize the lack of finished content and mechanics.
🎮 Excitement builds as gameplay comparisons to earlier titles emerge.
In the spirit of transparency, the team will present Q+As and streams next week, creating a chance to engage and discuss further. As players gear up to jump into the Closed Alpha, many wonder: Will the feedback pave the way for enhancements before the final launch later this year?