Sign up for the Marathon shooter stress test

The release date of the new online action game from Bungie is getting closer, which means that the developers are increasingly inviting gamers to various preparatory tests. From February 26 to March 2, a server stress test for Marathon will take place — regular users who have submitted an application and created an account on the project's website can participate. In addition to exclusive access to content, test participants will receive many prizes that can be used in the final version of the game when it releases on the 5th of next month.

In case you forgot, «Marathon» is an extraction shooter in a science-fiction setting. Heroes create their robotic copies (called runners) and travel to a distant colony in the Tau Ceti system, where contact with thousands of settlers was lost. To find answers to questions, runners will have to fight against other corporate mercenaries, as well as enemies controlled by artificial intelligence, then extract loot from the map and deliver artifacts to the client. Those who sign up for the server test will get access to the introductory mission, as well as two zones — «Perimeter» and «Creepy Swamp». The first is a forested area on the outskirts of the colony, and the second is the former agricultural lands of the settlers.

Additionally, contracts from five factions will be available: CyberAcme, NuCaloric, Traxus, MIDA, and Arachne. Each client gives their own rewards for success, and the corporations also provide separate character progression paths. Testers will have access to six character classes, solo and team matches. As a reward for completing the initial mission, you'll receive a cache with implants, shell cores, weapon mods, and a couple of guns. If you manage to level up your runner to level 10, you can get an enhanced set of the same items, and at level 30, you'll also unlock a luxury-class backpack. Gamers will be able to receive all prizes on March 5 — the day of the game's release.