The world got its first real glimpse of the new James Bond during PlayStation’s June State of Play, where IO Interactive officially revealed 007: First Light. The cinematic announcement trailer introduced a bold new vision for the legendary spy—a fresh origin story built entirely from the ground up. Stylish, intense, and full of intrigue, this new chapter redefines what it means to be Bond.
A Young Hero on the Brink of Transformation
007: First Light casts players as a 26-year-old James Bond, far removed from the polished secret agent we know. When a daring act of heroism earns him an invitation to the recently reinstated 00-Section, the story kicks into gear. Bond is still a Royal Navy airman, instinctive and courageous—but unrefined.
His first major mission is to help stop MI6’s own 009, a former operative gone rogue. But when the mission ends in tragedy, Bond finds himself caught in a web of conspiracy that reaches deep into the core of the British government. With only his instincts and the reluctant guidance of Greenway, a seasoned MI6 mentor, Bond begins the difficult transformation into the spy the world will one day know as 007.
The narrative, developed in close collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, is a completely standalone Bond story—unconnected to any existing films or novels. Alongside new characters, familiar faces like M, Q, and Moneypenny also return in reimagined roles for this origin tale.
And for the literary purists out there: this Bond finally bears the vertical scar on his right cheek, just as described in Ian Fleming’s original Casino Royale novel.
A New Bond Story by the Makers of Hitman
007: First Light was originally announced back in 2020, immediately capturing the attention of Bond fans worldwide. From the very beginning, IO Interactive made it clear that this would not be a traditional adaptation, but rather an original origin story exploring how Bond became 007.
Behind the project is IO Interactive, the acclaimed Danish studio best known for the Hitman franchise. With over 25 years of experience designing stealth-based, open-ended missions, IOI is bringing its signature approach to the world of Bond. This isn’t a retelling—it’s a reinvention. A chance to craft a cinematic spy thriller from the ground up, focused on what makes Bond human before he becomes a legend.
Espionage, Your Way
Gameplay in 007: First Light blends action, stealth, and choice across visually stunning global locations, from snow-covered mountains to sunlit coastal hideouts. Players can tailor their approach to each mission:
- Go in loud, using fists or firepower.
- Infiltrate with stealth and misdirection.
- Deploy cutting-edge gadgets to deceive, manipulate, or escape.
Cinematic vehicle sequences and dramatic set-pieces will complement the gameplay, giving players the feel of starring in their own Bond film.
And for those who crave replayability, missions can be played again with custom Modifiers—a feature veteran Hitmanfans will instantly recognize. These gameplay-altering elements provide new challenges and encourage creative experimentation with each playthrough.
Release, Platforms, and PS5 Pro Enhancements
007: First Light is set to launch in 2026 and will be available on:
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC
- Nintendo Switch 2
The game will also be enhanced for PlayStation 5 Pro, supporting Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) and offering 60 FPS in Quality Mode—ensuring smoother, sharper gameplay on the upgraded console.
No Time To Dub?
According to listings on platforms like Steam, First Light will most likely include English voice acting only. Most other regions are expected to receive subtitles instead.
That’s a shame. While the original Bond novels were written in English, it was the films—dubbed for global audiences—that truly turned James Bond into a worldwide pop culture icon.
Releasing the game without localized voice-overs could alienate many long-time fans. Especially those who grew up with dubbed Bond films and expect a cinematic experience—not something that feels limited to English-speaking players.
The Mission Begins
007: First Light reimagines the Bond legacy for a new generation—before the license to kill, before the tuxedos and martinis. It’s the story of how a bold young soldier becomes the most famous secret agent in the world.
You can wishlist the game now and expect new details about story, characters, and gameplay later this year.
As a longtime Bond fan, I’m honestly thrilled we finally got a trailer. There had been rumors for weeks—about Bond’s Navy past, about a rogue agent and a more personal betrayal—and even speculation that the game would be set in the 1950s or ’60s.
I’ll admit: I would’ve loved a full vintage-style Bond adventure, something in the spirit of From Russia with Love, complete with retro charm and delightfully quirky gadgets. But in the end, I genuinely welcome this younger, modernized Bond and the bold new direction IO Interactive is taking. It’s a fresh start—and one that holds enormous potential.
Stay tuned to ExpectingMrBond.com for deep dives, trailer analysis, and everything 007: First Light.
