IO Interactive, the creators of Hitman, bring James Bond back to video games with 007 First Light, a wholly original story featuring a younger version of the iconic superspy. At a time when the next cinematic Bond remains uncertain, this game proves more entertaining and authentic than recent movies.
An Authentic Bond Experience
The game is not tied to film continuity but draws heavily from it, including music, intro sequences, and relationships between Bond, M, Q, and Moneypenny. Patrick Gibson delivers a superb performance as a cocky, overconfident Bond, yet sympathetic and human. The game explores his first kill and emotional reactions, making him feel more real than in most films.
Gameplay: Hitman DNA with Bond Flair
First Light is a third-person action game with small open-world levels. Objectives are rarely spoon-fed, encouraging experimentation. For example, infiltrating a VIP room offers multiple solutions: sneaking through vents, posing as a waiter, or bluffing your way in. Stealth is slick, using a Q-watch to hack machinery, disorient enemies, or laser open padlocks. You cannot move bodies, but the system remains enjoyable.
Melee combat uses a color-coded dodge and counter system, feeling physical and destructible. Gunplay is solid, with a standout shootout in a museum gallery bathed in blood-red light. Vehicle sections, including a bin lorry chase through Kensington, are surprisingly fun and cinematic.
Story and Pacing
The narrative keeps Bond's orphan background vague but focuses on character interactions. The game criticizes AI as a major plot point. While the main villain is underused, the script is good, with Bond delivering one-liners like 'Happily single.' The pacing can be languid, with casual wandering and puzzle-solving even late in the story.
Technical Performance
Facial animation is excellent. We experienced two crashes but no graphical bugs, only questionable enemy AI. The main technical issue is long load times after death, reminiscent of the PS1 era.
Verdict
007 First Light is not a reskinned Hitman but an ambitious, cinematic action adventure. It balances dialogue, exploration, and action seamlessly, with minimal cut scenes. For Bond fans, it is a dream come true, packed with subtle references. IO Interactive has created an exceptional piece of interactive entertainment that deserves industry influence.
Score: 9/10
Formats: PC (previewed), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2
Price: £59.99
Publisher: IO Interactive
Developer: IO Interactive
Release Date: 26th May 2026 (Q3 2006 for Switch 2)
Age Rating: 16
