At today’s PlayStation State of Play, IO Interactive unveiled the first extended look at 007: First Light gameplay. For many, this was the chance to finally see James Bond in action – a mission that had previously only been shown behind closed doors at Gamescom.
The reveal follows Bond’s very first assignment as an MI6 recruit: the pursuit of the rogue Agent 009 through the Slovakian mountains. We see him behind the wheel of a limousine, infiltrating the lavish Grand Carpathian hotel, and eventually launching into a furious car chase across the countryside. The mission escalates until Bond finds himself clinging to a cargo plane in a set piece that feels straight out of a classic Bond opening – equal parts spectacle and danger.
Compared to the Gamescom demo, today’s reveal was almost identical in scope – with one notable exception. The stylish mission briefing, delivered by Moneypenny and filled with dossiers, floorplans, and IOI’s signature cinematic flair, was not included here. The focus instead was on Bond’s fieldwork: sneaking past guards, improvising with gadgets like the Shockwave Camera, and holding his own in a high-speed pursuit.
What stands out most is the tone: Bond isn’t yet the suave 007 we know from the films. He’s still a recruit, learning the rules, finding his instincts, and navigating tense dynamics with fellow agents and unexpected allies. IOI is clearly taking its time to let us witness his growth – and that patience may be what sets First Light apart from anything that came before.
Did you catch the State of Play reveal? What moment struck you most – the infiltration at the hotel, the roaring chase in the yellow Aston Martin, or Bond’s daring leap onto the cargo plane in pursuit of 009?
