A new era of James Bond is on the horizon.
IO Interactive, the acclaimed studio behind the Hitman franchise, has officially unveiled 007 First Light — a third-person, story-driven action-adventure game that reimagines the origin of the world’s most iconic spy. Set to release in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and the next-gen Nintendo Switch 2, the game offers fans a fresh take on the Bond universe, separate from any existing film canon.
Meet the Youngest Bond Ever
007 First Light introduces players to a 26-year-old James Bond — younger, rawer, and still evolving into the suave secret agent we know. Before the tuxedos and martinis, this Bond is a Navy aircrewman whose daring heroism propels him into MI6’s elite training program. The game chronicles his transformation from rookie operative to skilled spy, navigating a dangerous world filled with betrayal, gadgets, and high-stakes espionage.
“This is Bond as you’ve never seen him before,” said IO Interactive in its State of Play announcement. “He’s sharp, sometimes reckless, and still learning when to fight, when to bluff, and when to vanish.”
Star Power: Lennie James Joins the Cast
Hollywood actor Lennie James, best known for The Walking Dead and Save Me, takes on the role of John Greenway — Bond’s MI6 mentor. Greenway plays a pivotal role in shaping the young agent’s moral compass and tactical edge. The game also features reimagined versions of iconic characters like M, Q, and Moneypenny.
A Cinematic, Choice-Driven Experience
Built using IO’s proprietary Glacier engine, 007 First Light promises visually stunning gameplay across diverse locations — from icy peaks to sun-soaked coastlines. Players can expect a mix of stealth, high-octane combat, disguise mechanics reminiscent of Hitman, and Bond’s signature gadgets.
According to developers, gameplay will allow players to choose how they approach challenges: with brute force, stealth, or charm — giving gamers agency to define their own version of Bond.
Enhanced for Next-Gen, with PlayStation 5 Pro Optimization
On PlayStation 5, the game will support 60 FPS in Quality Mode and leverage PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) for improved performance and visuals. Players can wishlist 007 First Light now, with more gameplay reveals expected later in 2025.
A Standalone Story with Franchise Ambitions
This isn’t a movie tie-in. IO Interactive has emphasized that 007 First Light tells a completely original story developed in partnership with Amazon MGM Studios. Studio CEO Hakan Abrak recently suggested this may be the beginning of a full James Bond trilogy — offering fans a longer, deeper dive into the secret agent’s world.
For fans of the Bond franchise and modern action-adventure gaming, 007 First Light marks a thrilling new beginning.
Release Date: 2026
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2
Developed by: IO Interactive