Bond’s beginnings explored in new game as IO Interactive reimagines the origin of 007.
Copenhagen-based studio IO Interactive has revealed 007 First Light, a new game that gives Bond fans their first look at a young, untested James Bond before he earned his licence to kill.
The developers behind the Hitman franchise are bringing their cinematic stealth-action expertise to a wholly original take on the Bond origin story. Announced during Sony’s PlayStation State of Play, the game will arrive in 2026 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store.
007 First Light drops players into the boots of a 26-year-old Bond—then a rebellious Royal Navy air crewman—just as he’s recruited into MI6. From there, his rise through the newly resurrected 00 section begins. While Fleming never charted Bond’s early years in any detail, IO Interactive’s version presents a fresh entry point that aims to stay true to the essence of the character, while expanding the world he inhabits.
Unlike previous titles such as GoldenEye 007 or Everything or Nothing, this game will not follow the events of the novels or films, but instead offers an entirely standalone story. IO promises that players will navigate a global trail of espionage through multiple play styles—whether relying on blunt force, sharp wit or silent finesse. Familiar characters like M, Q and Moneypenny will make appearances, alongside newcomers like Bond’s mentor John Greenway and the enigmatic Isola.
For those who’ve long speculated about Bond’s transition from naval officer to secret agent, 007 First Light could offer the most comprehensive account to date—even if it’s not canonical in the strictest sense. The presence of customisable gadgetry from Q, relationship choices, and moral dilemmas hints at a game that goes beyond gunplay.
Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, described the project as “a cinematic adventure that pushes the boundaries of what a James Bond game can be”. Given IO’s track record of blending stealth, style and narrative in Hitman, expectations will be high.
The announcement also reinforces a recent shift in the Bond universe—telling new stories across different media without being tethered to existing timelines. It’s an approach similar to James Bond: Origin, the comic book series by Dynamite that imagined Bond’s teenage years during World War II. However, 007 First Light pivots into the modern day, possibly resetting the clock for a new generation of Bond fans.
Players can wishlist the game now and sign up for an IOI account to receive an exclusive in-game item at launch.
