007 First Light: IO Interactive’s Bold New Take on James Bond Launches in 2026

First look at IO Interactive’s James Bond game.

Kyle S

James Bond fans, it’s time to suit up IO Interactive, the masterminds behind Hitman, are stepping into the spy game with 007 First Light, an all-new James Bond adventure set to launch in 2026. Revealed during Sony’s June 2025 State of Play, this fresh origin story promises to dive into Bond’s early days before he earned his legendary “00” status.

A Different Kind of Bond Origin

Forget the polished super-spy you’ve seen on screen 007 First Light puts you in the shoes of a younger, rawer James Bond still learning the ropes. Tasked with tracking down a missing 009 agent, the game explores how Bond earns his place among MI6’s elite. IO Interactive is bringing their signature player-choice approach here, letting you tackle missions your way whether that’s creeping through shadows, engaging in high-octane firefights, or talking your way out of danger.

Gameplay That Feels Like Classic Bond Meets Hitman

The first trailer teased a stylish blend of stealth, action, and espionage. You’ll infiltrate enemy bases, interrogate targets, and engage in tense gunfights all across exotic locations. IO’s Glacier Engine is powering the experience, meaning expect detailed environments and smooth, cinematic gameplay that keeps you on your toes.

Plus, you’ll get explosive chase sequences, gadget-driven gameplay, and those high-stakes moments that make Bond, well, Bond.

What We’re Excited About

IO Interactive is known for giving players freedom and depth with their sandbox-style levels in Hitman, and it looks like 007 First Light will deliver something similar in the spy genre. The combination of stealth and action, with an emphasis on player choice, could make this one of the freshest Bond games in years.

The narrative focus on a younger Bond is also intriguing it feels like a new chapter not just for the character but for Bond games overall.

When and Where to Play

007 First Light will release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2 sometime in 2026. With IO Interactive’s pedigree, this could be the spy thriller we’ve been waiting for.

Final Thoughts

Bond fans and stealth action lovers alike should keep 007 First Light on their radar. IO Interactive has a proven track record with player freedom and tense gameplay, and this new take on James Bond looks ready to shake and maybe stir the genre up in all the right ways.