IO Interactive, known for the Hitman series, is actively developing 007: First Light. This project, previously codenamed `Project 007,` was revealed with significant new details—including its release date, cast, and narrative—during the September 2025 PlayStation State of Play event.
First Light, first announced in November 2020, is designed as an origin story for James Bond, with ambitions to launch a new trilogy of games.
Release Date for 007 First Light
The game is scheduled for release on March 27, 2026, preceding GTA 6 by approximately two months.
Pre-order Information
Pre-orders for 007 First Light are currently available. Opting for the $70 standard edition automatically upgrades players to the deluxe edition, offering 24-hour early access and exclusive in-game content. A collector`s edition, priced at $300, includes a replica Golden Gun.
Meet the Cast: Who Plays James Bond?
During the September 3 Nintendo Direct, IO Interactive officially confirmed Irish actor Patrick Gibson as James Bond, a role long rumored. The full cast includes:
- 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 for 007 First Light
The initial trailer for 007 First Light premiered during Summer Game Fest, followed by an extended gameplay trailer released in September during a PlayStation State of Play event. Both are available to view below.
Available Platforms
007 First Light will be released on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC.
Story, Setting, and Characters
007 First Light immerses players in the early life of James Bond, portraying him at 26 years old as a Royal Navy officer before his iconic transformation into the British superspy. The narrative follows his recruitment into MI6 and eventual ascent to the elite 00 section.
According to the game`s press release, Bond`s global adventures will challenge players to confront allies and adversaries, offering choices on how to navigate obstacles—be it through brute force, clever strategy, or captivating charm.
The developer stated, “We are dedicating our passion to the franchise to deliver a cinematic adventure that redefines the James Bond game experience while presenting an entirely new story.”
This third-person action-adventure title will reintroduce familiar faces such as M, Q, and Moneypenny, alongside new characters like John Greenway, Bond`s mentor, and the enigmatic Isola. IO Interactive also promises an entirely new rogue`s gallery of villains.
IO Interactive plans for the game to initiate a new trilogy. CEO Hakan Abrak informed IGN that First Light will not adapt existing Bond films, but rather allow the developer to craft a unique interpretation of James Bond.
Abrak expressed enthusiasm for the project`s original narrative: “What`s exciting is creating an original story, not merely a game adaptation of a film. This is the genesis of a story, potentially for a major future trilogy. Crucially, it`s a new Bond, designed from the ground up for gamers—a young Bond that players can truly embrace and evolve with, while respecting the franchise`s rich tradition.”
Beyond Gunplay: Diverse Gameplay
While James Bond films are synonymous with intense action and extensive gun combat, First Light aims to offer more than just shooting.
IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak recently stated their ambition to avoid creating a game solely focused on “shooting and running.”
He elaborated that the game aims to fulfill the fantasy of Bond navigating social environments, engaging in dialogue, and creatively resolving challenges. Abrak noted that while the team leveraged insights from Hitman: World of Assassination, the James Bond experience will be distinctly different.
Game Engine and Potential Multiplayer
007 First Light is being developed on IO Interactive`s proprietary Glacier engine. The studio`s recruitment for a multiplayer programmer, combined with past job listings seeking multiplayer expertise for Project 007, hints at—but does not confirm—the inclusion of multiplayer features in the new James Bond game.
Development Team
First Light is currently under active development across IO Interactive`s studios in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Malmo, Sweden.
Abrak commented on the ambitious nature of the project: “Developing an original Bond game is a monumental task, and I am confident that IO Interactive, in collaboration with EON and MGM, will deliver something truly exceptional for our players. Our dedicated team is eager to apply their creativity to the iconic James Bond universe and create the most ambitious game in our studio`s history.”
Robert Marick, former MGM boss, previously stated, “We aim to introduce a fresh perspective on this legendary franchise to global gamers and Bond fans. IO Interactive excels at building immersive worlds with compelling storytelling.” Marick departed MGM following the game`s announcement.
Changes in James Bond Franchise Leadership
A significant question surrounding First Light is how the project might be impacted by the transition of creative control from long-time James Bond custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson to Amazon MGM Studios.
Broccoli and Wilson had overseen the James Bond franchise for nearly six decades, inheriting stewardship from their father, Cubby Broccoli. Their influence spanned all aspects of the franchise, including casting the iconic spy and contributing to game development, as evidenced by Broccoli`s known concerns regarding the GoldenEye game for Wii.
Legacy of James Bond Games
Over the years, numerous companies have developed James Bond video games. Rare`s 1997 GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo 64 remains a standout title. Electronic Arts also contributed with games like Agent Under Fire, Nightfire, and Rogue Agent. Activision later published titles such as 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 Future of James Bond Films
The 26th James Bond film is currently in development, with David Heyman (Harry Potter) and Amy Pascal (Spider-Man) confirmed as producers for Amazon MGM Studios. Key details, including the crucial casting of James Bond—with Aaron Taylor-Johnson previously rumored as a front-runner—remain unannounced, as do the director and release date.
A December 2024 Wall Street Journal report indicated that Broccoli and Wilson had disagreements with Amazon executives regarding the franchise`s direction, leading to production delays. With their departure, speculation suggests Amazon MGM Studios may now accelerate plans for Bond 26.