Despite live-action Bond’s reported toils, 007: First Light dev says working with Amazon MGM has actually been “surprisingly straightforward”

IO Interactive, the Danish studio behind the Hitman franchise, has unveiled its new James Bond game, 007: First Light, through hands-on preview sessions. The game is an origin story following Bond as a young Navy Airman before his induction into the secret service, marking the first Bond game in 14 years.

Multiple gaming outlets spent three hours with the game, describing a hybrid gameplay experience that blends stealth, social spycraft, gadgets, and action—combining elements from Hitman’s assassination sandbox mechanics with more linear, narrative-driven design. Critics responded positively, with some calling it a potential Game of the Year contender and possibly the best Bond game ever made. The game’s environments are impressively rendered with compelling mission design, though some outlets noted Bond’s characterization as younger and more idealistic than his typical portrayal.

Despite reported challenges surrounding the James Bond license at owner Amazon MGM, IO Interactive has reported that collaboration with the license holder has been “surprisingly straightforward.” The developer confirmed that no generative AI was used in creating the game, despite the story exploring themes of artificial intelligence and defense companies. IO Interactive, which self-published following its buyback from Square Enix, appears positioned to deliver one of 2026’s most anticipated releases.

Despite live-action Bond’s reported toils, 007: First Light dev says working with Amazon MGM has actually been “surprisingly straightforward”

Sources