IO Interactive, the acclaimed developer behind the Hitman series, is currently engaged in the creation of a new fantasy IP and the highly anticipated 007: First Light. This James Bond game, previously known by its working title Project 007, recently saw a significant unveiling of new details during the September 2025 PlayStation State of Play event, including its release date, cast, story, and more.
Announced in November 2020, 007: First Light is set to tell an origin story for the iconic secret agent, James Bond, with the ambitious goal of potentially launching a brand-new trilogy.
Release Date and Preorder Information
007: First Light is officially scheduled for release on March 27, 2026. Preorders are currently available, offering several editions:
- The $70 standard edition comes with an automatic upgrade to the deluxe edition, providing 24-hour early access and various in-game bonuses.
- For dedicated collectors, a premium $300 collector`s edition is also offered, which includes a replica Golden Gun.
Meet the Cast of 007: First Light
During a September announcement, IO Interactive officially revealed that Irish actor Patrick Gibson will portray James Bond, confirming rumors that had circulated for months. The full voice cast for the game is as follows:
- Patrick Gibson as James Bond
- Priyanga Burford as M
- Alastair Mackenzie as Q
- Kiera Lester as Miss Moneypenny
- Lennie James as Bond’s mentor, John Greenway
- Noemie Nakai as Miss Roth
Trailers: A First Look at Gameplay
The initial trailer for 007: First Light debuted during Summer Game Fest, followed by a more comprehensive gameplay trailer presented in September at a PlayStation State of Play event. Both trailers provide exciting glimpses into the game`s world.
Available Platforms
007: First Light will be broadly accessible, launching on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC.
Story, Setting, and Characters
007: First Light plunges players into the early life of James Bond, portraying him at 26 years old during his service in the Royal Navy, before he became the legendary British superspy. His journey begins with recruitment into MI6 and ultimately its elite 00 section.
The game`s press release stated, “Bond`s adventures will take players all around the globe, coming face to face with allies and foes (or in some cases, both), while choosing how they overcome obstacles and challenges, whether it be with brute force, cunning guile, or charming wit.”
The developers have emphasized their dedication: “We`re pouring our energy and passion for the franchise into creating a cinematic adventure that pushes the boundaries of what a James Bond game can be, while telling a fresh, new story.”
In addition to Bond, players will encounter familiar characters such as M, Q, and Moneypenny. The game also introduces new figures like Bond`s mentor, John Greenway, and a mysterious character named Isola, alongside a fresh cast of villains. IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak has confirmed that First Light will not be based on any existing Bond movies. Instead, the developers are creating an original narrative, intended as the foundation for a new trilogy. This approach allows the studio to craft a unique iteration of James Bond specifically for gamers, one that players can “call their own and grow with.”
Gameplay Philosophy: More Than Just Shooting
While the James Bond films are renowned for their high-octane action and intense gunfights, IO Interactive assures that 007: First Light will offer a more diverse gameplay experience. CEO Hakan Abrak clarified, “We don`t want to make a game where it`s only about shooting and running.”
He further explained that the game aims to fully deliver the Bond fantasy, enabling players to “traverse in social spaces and speak to people and figure out in creative ways how to solve the obstacles in front of him.” Although the game draws on insights from Hitman: World of Assassination, Abrak stressed that James Bond will provide a distinctly different experience.
Powered by Glacier Engine and Hints of Multiplayer
007: First Light is being developed using IO Interactive`s proprietary Glacier engine, recognized for its robust capabilities in creating detailed environments and sophisticated stealth mechanics. A past job advertisement for a multiplayer programmer, previously associated with Project 007, suggests the potential inclusion of a multiplayer mode, though this feature remains unconfirmed.
Behind the Development: IO Interactive
The game is currently in “active development” across IO Interactive`s studios located in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Malmo, Sweden. Hakan Abrak conveyed strong confidence in the project, stating, “Creating an original Bond game is a monumental undertaking and I truly believe that IO Interactive, working closely with our creative partners at EON and MGM, can deliver something extremely special for our players and communities.”
Robert Marick, former MGM boss, praised IO Interactive`s mastery in “crafting living, breathing worlds of immersive storytelling,” highlighting their commitment to bringing a fresh perspective to the legendary franchise for a global audience of gamers. (It should be noted that Marick left MGM after the game`s initial announcement.)
The James Bond Franchise Shakeup
A significant shift in the broader James Bond franchise is the acquisition of Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson`s ownership by Amazon MGM Studios, granting them full control over creative decisions. Broccoli and Wilson had been the primary custodians of the Bond films for nearly six decades. The precise impact of this change on IO Interactive`s game is yet unknown.
A Look Back at James Bond Games
The history of James Bond in video games is extensive and varied. Iconic titles include Rare`s 1997 GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo 64. Electronic Arts developed several Bond games, such as Agent Under Fire and Nightfire, while Activision published titles like Quantum of Solace and Blood Stone. The last major console Bond game was 2012`s 007 Legends, though Cypher 007 was released for mobile in 2023.
The Next James Bond Film
Work is underway on the 26th James Bond movie, with David Heyman (Harry Potter) and Amy Pascal (Spider-Man) attached as producers. Amazon MGM Studios will produce the film, but crucial details such as casting (Aaron Taylor-Johnson was previously rumored as a front-runner), director, or release date have not yet been announced. A Wall Street Journal report from December 2024 indicated past disagreements between Broccoli/Wilson and Amazon executives regarding the series` future, which may have caused project delays. With Broccoli and Wilson no longer at the helm, there is speculation that Amazon might expedite development for Bond 26.