IO Interactive’s 007 First Light delivers high-stakes spectacle ahead of film franchise uncertainty
Developed by the studio behind the Hitman series, the title explores themes of artificial intelligence and corporate control while offering a distinct departure from cinematic canon.
IO Interactive has released 007 First Light, an origin story video game for the James Bond franchise, launching on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox on May 27, 2026. A version for the Nintendo Switch 2 is currently in development. The title utilises the Glacier engine, the same technology powering the Hitman series, to create ultrarealistic environments with dynamic physics and breakable objects. The narrative follows Bond as a British soldier in Iceland before his recruitment into MI6’s reinstated “00” program.
The game features voice performances from Lennie James as Greenway, Bond’s trainer, and Lenny Kravitz as Bawma. While the reviewer noted similarities to Daniel Craig’s portrayal of the character, the game stands apart from the film canon. The plot explores themes including double agents, the rise of artificial intelligence, and corporate control of humanity.
Gameplay combines action-oriented combat with stealth elements, allowing players to carry up to three devices per mission. These tools include a laser watch and nausea darts, which directly impact how players approach situations in the field. The reviewer described the game as one of their "favorite action games in years," praising its spectacle and mission variety.
Missions take place across diverse locations, including underground London nightclubs, a Slovakian castle, and a fictional Mauritanian city. The reviewer noted a lack of disguise mechanics compared to Hitman, with stealth serving as the primary method of approach rather than a mandatory requirement. There is no insta-fail state for stealth, though the reviewer found the checkpointing system to be occasionally frustrating.
With the future of the James Bond film franchise described as "up in the air" at the time of publication, First Light arrives at a significant moment for the brand. The game offers a self-contained experience that leans into the enduring elements of the espionage genre, distinct from any official movie continuity.
