Sony has scheduled an exclusive PlayStation State of Play event dedicated entirely to IO Interactive`s upcoming James Bond title, 007 First Light.
This event is set for Wednesday, September 3, at 11 AM PT / 2 PM ET / 7 PM BST / 8 PM CEST. Viewers can expect over 30 minutes of new gameplay footage, including a walkthrough of James Bond`s initial mission as an MI6 recruit.
IO Interactive promises a diverse gameplay experience, featuring `high-speed car chases, on-foot stealth sequences, and intense shootouts.` Following the gameplay reveal, the developers will provide additional insights into the espionage mechanics.
The broadcast will be available on standard streaming platforms. Sony previously unveiled 007 First Light`s reveal trailer during its June State of Play, continuing its history of exclusive James Bond game reveals. This aligns with Sony`s long-standing connection to the James Bond franchise, despite Amazon MGM Studios now handling the film distribution.
Recent State of Play Events
The most recent State of Play, held in July, was dedicated to Ghost of Yotei. This upcoming September event will mark the fifth State of Play of 2025. A brief overview of previous events includes:
- February 2025 (general)
- April 2025 (Borderlands 4)
- June 2025 (general)
- July 2025 (Ghost of Yotei)
The September State of Play focusing on 007 First Light was anticipated due to earlier leaks. There are also rumors of a potential Nintendo Direct event on September 11 or 12.
About 007 First Light
Developed by IO Interactive, known for the Hitman series, 007 First Light stands out among the many James Bond video games, including classics like GoldenEye 007. It`s unique in being the first title to explore the iconic character`s origin story.
The game places players in the role of a 26-year-old James Bond during his time in the Royal Navy, before his recruitment into MI6 and eventual placement in the elite 00 section, showcasing his transformation into the legendary British superspy.
According to the press release, Bond`s global adventures will pit players against a mix of allies and adversaries, offering choices in how to approach challenges—whether through brute force, clever tactics, or charming persuasion.
The developer emphasized their dedication, stating, “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.”
This third-person action-adventure will include familiar characters such as M, Q, and Moneypenny, alongside new additions like John Greenway and the enigmatic Isola. IO Interactive also promises an entirely new lineup of villains.
IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak confirmed that 007 First Light is designed as the beginning of a new trilogy and will not adapt existing Bond films. This allows the studio to craft its unique interpretation of James Bond for the game.
Abrak expressed enthusiasm for creating an “original story” for the project, emphasizing that it`s “not a gamification of a movie” but rather the genesis of a potentially large trilogy. He highlighted the opportunity to build a “new Bond” from the ground up specifically for gamers, allowing them to “call their own and grow with” this younger iteration of the character.
While IO Interactive has yet to officially confirm the actor portraying James Bond in First Light, fans speculate that Irish actor Patrick Gibson, known for his roles in The Tudors, Shadow and Bone, and Tolkien, and most recently as a young Dexter Morgan in Original Sin, has been cast. His appearance certainly fits the role, though official confirmation is still pending.
007 First Light is slated for release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch 2, and PC platforms.