007 First Lightis the next James Bond game in development by IO Interactive, the studio most famous for its long-running and popular stealth-based series,Hitman.The upcoming entry is currently set for a 2026 release, but no firm window has yet been given. Of note,007 First Lightwill mark the first time a new iteration of the character is making their debut in a video game rather than on the silver screen.
007 First Lightwill delve into the origin story of the titular MI agent. After gaining attention by performing a heroic act while serving as a Naval airman, a young James Bond is recruited into MI6’s training program, starting his path to becoming the master spy that audiences know and love. Thisnew James Bond,though, isn’t based specifically on any actors' versions from the movies thus far, such as, for example,GoldenEye 007. Still, the presentation and characteristics in ways do resemble the Bond seen in recent films, and if IO is attempting to have it both ways, this might create some hurdles.
Though IO has not divulged theactor portraying Bond inFirst Light, speculation suggests it may be Patrick Gibson, known forDexter: Original Sin.
007 First Light Attempting to Channel ‘Two Kinds’ of Bond Could Put it in Danger of Disappointing Fans on Both Sides of the Aisle
Daniel Craig’s James Bond Was More Shaken Than Stirred
The international secret agent was most recently portrayed on the big screen by Daniel Craig. Through five films, this version was a bit more on the rough-and-tumble side compared to prior outings like those by Pierce Brosnan or Timothy Dalton.
Craig’s James Bondproved highly popular with many fans, and his turn was also praised for taking the character in more of a high-stakes direction than had been done before.
Bond’s nature has always been more than a little on the dangerous side, of course, and based on other elements IO has provided about007 First Light, it seems to be aiming to incorporate this alongside the classic suave and sophisticated mannerisms that were sometimes downplayed in recent films in favor of a more physical approach. If the game ends up feeling like too much or not enough of one or the other, it could risk dulling the edge of the intent and experience.
The upcoming entry has been stated to place a heavier emphasis on the espionage angle, rather than being mostly nonstop shooting action. This makes a good deal of sense, as a core part of Bond’s character is also social engineering and improvisational talents, along with his high-tech gadgets and killer instincts, which are sure to come into play viaIO’s masterfulHitmangameplay.
The above issue may come into play if the physicality and fighting style of the character brings to mind Daniel Craig’s more brutal approach, but then this demeanor changes noticeably or is inconsistent across gameplay or cutscenes. It might end up imparting a sense of whiplash, as the character displays traits of both at various times, but in an uneven manner that doesn’t fully commit to either approach.
At the same time, IO has been open about the opportunity to present a fresh take on Bond, and particularly his early story.007 First Lighthas some great material to work with, and theHitmandevelopertaking the reins for a game starring one of the most recognized fictional figures holds a lot of excellent potential that could pay off well, so long as it can strike the right balance and not feel like a less interesting mishmash of versions of prior Bonds. Hopefully, the studio will deliver a great title that does Bond justice while being highly satisfying to play, no matter how the character takes shape.
