During Sony Interactive Entertainment’s State of Play event, the game “007 First Light” premiered its first gameplay trailer. Set for release in 2026, the game is being developed by IO Interactive, known for the Hitman franchise. The Danish developers have opted to take a different approach with this title, diverging from the James Bond we are familiar with. Instead of portraying the seasoned secret agent comfortable in a tuxedo, players will control a 26-year-old James Bond who has just left the Royal Navy, promising but undisciplined. He is recruited by MI6 during its period of reconstruction and joins the legendary 00 section, which was once renowned but is now outdated.
This outlines an untold origin story, unrelated to existing films, that is now taking shape. It presents a bold and original vision where we follow the initial steps of a vulnerable yet justice-driven (or vengeful?) James Bond, demonstrating remarkable field efficiency. Drawing from their experience with the HITMAN trilogy, IO Interactive promises an action-adventure game in third-person perspective, skillfully blending stealth, combat, and narrative choices. Players can choose how to progress: using Q’s gadgets, through double-meaning dialogues, or via brutal and precise neutralization. The story will take players around the globe to exotic environments characteristic of the Bond universe. Several familiar faces return – M, Q, Moneypenny – along with a new cast of characters, including John Greenway, James Bond’s mentor, and Isola, an enigmatic figure with unclear intentions.
In a passionate statement, Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, outlines the studio’s ambitions: “We are investing all our energy and passion for the franchise to create a cinematic adventure that pushes the boundaries of what a James Bond game can be.”
The message is clear: 007: First Light will not be just another licensed game, and IO Interactive aims to create a true foundational chapter. The game will be respectful of Bond’s legacy while being visionary in its staging and game structure. We’ll see if the ambitions match the studio’s expertise upon release, which is scheduled for 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, the recently announced Nintendo Switch 2, as well as on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.