IO Interactive Provides First Glimpse of 007 First Light

It has been a long time since the last 007 video game, 007 Legends, which was released in 2012. However, IO Interactive intends to fill this gap with 007 First Light. Following the initial gameplay presentation, it is clear that a new action highlight is on the horizon for 2026.

Following the announcement that IO Interactive, the Danish company behind the Hitman games, was working on a James Bond game, there was little news about the project. However, the first gameplay presentation has now taken place, including in a State of Play edition dedicated solely to the game. IO Interactive has demonstrated that the game is more than just Hitman with a James Bond veneer; it is something unique that builds on the strengths of Hitman while expanding upon them with more action and the typical elements of the 007 franchise.

In the section of the game presented, we see a young, inexperienced, and rather quick-witted James Bond who is initially tasked with observing and waiting while other agents carry out a mission. Annoyed at being sidelined, he becomes active when he spots suspicious activity at the sealed-off castle. Here, the developers presented free exploration of sandbox-like maps: James Bond must find a way to enter the sealed-off area of the castle to reach his target. He mingles with the party guests and uses his tools to scout the area for ways to enter the building, despite the heavy security presence. The method he uses to get in is up to him, though direct confrontation is unlikely to be effective. Bond therefore sneaks through the area, steals a lighter and sets fire to some leaves in a wheelbarrow. This distracts the security guards, allowing Bond to climb into the building through an open window. The house's employees and guests notice him, but he defuses the situation with a flippant remark. Bond then moves among the guests, searching for improvised objects, and discovers the target. These game elements, presented in highly detailed, contemporary graphics, bear some resemblance to the Hitman series, but have been tailored to the world of James Bond and his gadgets.

IO Interactive: "Instinct is a signature gameplay feature in 007 First Light, giving players a versatile resource to turn the tide in any situation. Bond can use his instincts to lure enemies into vulnerable positions, bluff his way out of suspicion when discovered, or sharpen his focus for greater precision and power in combat. This mechanic captures Bond’s quick thinking and adaptability, allowing players to respond to changing circumstances with style and control."

Next is a car chase in which Bond pursues the fugitive off-road; here, the player takes the wheel. When the fugitive attempts to escape in an aeroplane at an airfield, James Bond switches to heavy weapons, and IO Interactive sets off a veritable fireworks display of action in both close and long-range combat. Bond shoots his way through henchmen, throws empty guns at his opponents and clings onto the aeroplane as it takes off, managing to board it just in time. Once on board, he hacks into the flight controls, changing the angle of the aircraft and shifting the cargo. This allows him to use the environment as a puzzle or weapon. Once again, IO Interactive impressively demonstrates the strengths of its physics engine here. Admittedly, only one mission was shown in fragments, but it looks like IO Interactive is giving their James Bond game their all, especially in terms of the interactivity of the locations. Overall, the game made a powerful impression and captured the essence of the original.

Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive: "With 007 First Light, we're building a wholly original James Bond experience from the ground up, one that blends the sharp tension of espionage with the bold spectacle the franchise is known for. The gameplay is rooted in our signature approach to immersive design, combining stealth, action, and creativity in a way that feels uniquely tailored to Bond."

Patrick Gibson (Dexter: Original Sin, The OA) announced the ensemble cast of voice and motion capture actors for 007 First Light, confirming that he will portray James Bond in the game. Classic 007 characters, such as M (Priyanga Burford), Q (Alastair Mackenzie), and Miss Moneypenny (Kiera Lester), will also feature, alongside new ones, including Bond's mentor, John Greenway (Lennie James - Fear the Walking Dead, Save Me), and Miss Roth (Noemie Nakai).

007 First Light will be available for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and for PC for $69.99, €69.99, £59.99 (SRP). Players who pre-order any edition of 007 First Light will get upgraded to the 007 First Light – Deluxe Edition for free. The Deluxe Edition Upgrade includes a 24-hour Early Access, four item skins, a weapon skin, as well as four Outfits. 007 First Light – Deluxe Edition will be available at launch for PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and for PC for $79.99, €79.99, £69.99 (SRP). 007 First Light - Specialist Edition will be offered exclusively on Amazon.com, featuring a unique packaging for the game's case, as well as an exclusive original outfit for Bond, the Classic Tux, for even more flair. 007 First Light - Legacy Edition will be available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC for $299.99, €299,99, £259.99 (SRP). It includes the full game, the Deluxe Edition content, an Exclusive Golden Gun weapon skin, the Obsidian Gold Suit outfit, a Golden Gun Figurine with Stand & Secret Compartment, a Certificate of Authenticity, and a Steel Case with Magnet.