007: First Light is a More Ambitious Project Following Hitman’s Model

Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, describes 007: First Light as a project built upon the pillars of the recent Hitman trilogy, but a larger investment effort, more expensive and ambitious, that will follow the same example of these games in post-launch support. In a recent conversation discussing the budgets of the recent Hitman trilogy, Abrak stated that 007: First Light might eventually receive a sequel, with IO Interactive’s CEO teasing potential sequels for 007 First Light similar to the Hitman trilogy. The game development process of 007 First Light follows the “The Brick System”, which involves recycling assets for efficiency and quick turnaround. This approach helped significantly reduce the development cost of the latest Hitman trilogy, as seen with Mindseye being the only game that IO Interactive has missed since going independent. Abrak says that 007: First Light is IO Interactive’s most significant investment project to date, with a focus on longevity. The team already envisions utilizing new challenges in improved stealth gameplay, action, advanced technology and features, seamless combat at long and short distances, smoother movement, and car driving elements from 007: First Light in any potential sequel, should one be developed. If there will be a sequel to 007 First Light, it might follow the same strategy as the Hitman games in building subsequent sequels. The CEO suggests that they are mindful about growing with their culture instead of pursuing multiple projects at once, which helped them survive tough times within the industry following the pandemic and recent layoffs. Abrak says that the experience supporting Hitman games over the long term has enabled the sale of over 25 million units of this trilogy, so they will do the same with 007: First Light, expanding the single-player experience with “desirable free content.”

Sophie Laurent’s latest piece, “007 First Light: First Gameplay Trailer Unveils James Bond’s Youth,” published on June 6, 2025, offers an exciting glimpse into the upcoming action-adventure game that delves into a young James Bond’s early days in MI6. This groundbreaking title, set to release in 2026 and developed by IO Interactive, promises a fresh take on the beloved spy genre with its third-person perspective gameplay and engaging narrative. Dive into the first gameplay trailer unveiled during Sony’s State of Play event and explore how this ambitious project aims to redefine James Bond games for the next generation. Check it out 007 First Light: First Gameplay Trailer Unveils James Bond’s Youth.