This action-adventure spy game tells the origin story of a 26-year-old James Bond, fresh out of the Navy and just beginning his MI6 career. Scheduled for release in 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2, 007 First Light promises heart-pounding action, stealth mechanics, and high-speed chases, setting the stage for Bond’s evolution into the world’s most famous secret agent.
What to Expect at State of Play
The showcase will air at 11 AM PT on September 3, 2025 (2 AM ET on September 4 in Vietnam), streamed live via PlayStation’s official YouTube and Twitch channels.
Players will see a full 30-minute gameplay segment highlighting Bond’s first mission as a rookie agent. After the gameplay reveal, IO Interactive developers will provide insights into the game’s espionage mechanics and cinematic approach.
What is 007 First Light?
First unveiled in 2020 under the codename Project 007 and officially titled 007 First Light in June 2025, the game marks the first Bond release since 007 Legends (2012). Unlike previous Bond games based on films or actors, First Light delivers an original origin story, with Bond fighting to earn the coveted “007” designation.
Powered by IO Interactive’s Glacier Engine, the game blends cinematic presentation with the studio’s expertise in stealth and player freedom, offering both explosive action and strategic espionage.
Gameplay Highlights
The September showcase will feature a deep dive into gameplay mechanics, including:
- High-speed chases across cars, boats, and exotic vehicles.
- Stealth tactics using disguises, gadgets, and infiltration techniques.
- Gunfights and hand-to-hand combat designed to feel cinematic yet responsive.
- Global exploration, from snowy mountain ranges to sunlit beaches.
After the gameplay, IO Interactive will share more about how they’re merging Hitman-style player freedom with the iconic flair of James Bond.
Story and Characters
007 First Light introduces an all-new Bond narrative, drawing inspiration from Ian Fleming’s novels but not directly adapting any single film or book.
Bond begins as a talented but rebellious naval aviator, recruited into MI6’s elite training program. His first mission pits him against a rogue MI6 agent and an international conspiracy threatening national security.
Familiar characters like M, Q, and Moneypenny return, alongside newcomers such as John Greenway (Bond’s mentor) and Isola, a mysterious figure tied to the central plot.
Players can choose their approach—whether brute force, silent infiltration, or even charm—to complete missions in multiple ways.
IO Interactive’s Approach
IO Interactive, fresh off the success of Hitman 3, began development in 2020. Unlike earlier Bond games, the team’s goal is to build a Bond made for gamers rather than replicating movie portrayals.
CEO Hakan Abrak describes the project as “progressing incredibly well,” with ambitions to make First Light the first chapter of a planned trilogy. Chief Creative Officer Christian Elverdam emphasizes that, like Hitman, players will be rewarded for creativity, but with distinctly Bond-like flair—cinematic set pieces, stylish combat, and espionage intrigue.
Platforms and Release
007 First Light is slated for 2026 on:
- PlayStation 5 (enhanced for PS5 Pro with PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution at 60 FPS in Quality Mode)
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC (via Steam and Epic Games Store)
- Nintendo Switch 2
While no exact release date has been confirmed, pre-release wishlists are now available. IO Interactive account holders will receive exclusive launch rewards: the “On Duty” outfit and “Gilded Wraith” weapon.
Community Reactions
The reveal trailer in June 2025, featuring music from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, was widely praised. Fans applauded the fresh narrative direction, though some compared Bond’s design to Nathan Drake (Uncharted).
Speculation suggests actor Patrick Gibson (Dexter: Original Sin) may provide Bond’s likeness or voice, but IO Interactive has yet to confirm. Many expect the September State of Play to reveal more about the cast and possibly a launch window.
Why 007 First Light Matters
The Bond franchise has a storied gaming history, with GoldenEye 007 (1997) revolutionizing first-person shooters. After years of dormancy, First Light is poised to revive the brand with IO Interactive’s proven stealth expertise.
For fans, it’s not just another action game—it’s a chance to redefine the spy genre in gaming.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming PlayStation State of Play on September 3, 2025 could be a turning point for 007 First Light. With an original Bond story, cinematic espionage gameplay, and IO Interactive at the helm, the title has the potential to become one of the most anticipated releases of 2026.
Whether you’re a lifelong Bond fan or new to the franchise, this is one reveal you won’t want to miss. Tune in on YouTube or Twitch to catch the 30 minutes of exclusive gameplay.
