(Image credit: IO Interactive)
007: First Light is shaking up expectations with its fresh approach from IO Interactive. While it may initially look like a deviation from their famed Hitman series, it also steers clear of being simply an Uncharted-style action game. Instead, it retains core elements that fans of IOI have come to love.
Speaking at the Summer Game Fest 2025, Jonathan Lacaille, director of the 007 series at IOI, shed light on what the game aims to deliver. When questioned about whether the new title would follow a linear, cinematic action style or embrace the signature systems-driven approach of their previous works, Lacaille remarked, “It’s neither.” He emphasized that IOI’s expertise compliments the 007 franchise well, stating, “We are leaning a lot on what IOI does best.”
This reassures longtime followers that the game will not stray too far from IOI’s distinctive gameplay style. However, Lacaille highlighted how new elements have been introduced to encapsulate the full spectrum of a Bond experience.
An intriguing challenge for the team was incorporating driving mechanics—a feature not present in Hitman games. Additionally, while gunplay plays a larger role, reflecting Bond’s iconic action sequences, Lacaille made clear that the game won’t devolve into a mere shootout, asserting that “we want to give the player a lot of tools to feel as smart as Bond in the game.”
After a noticeable period of radio silence, 007: First Light is set to make its debut next year across multiple platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X, Steam, and the Epic Game Store. The developers have crafted a James Bond origin story aimed at resonating with a “younger audience maybe than the Bond franchise is used to.”