#preview 2026
2 article(s)
007 First Light: IO Interactive Reinvents Bond Before Launch — Our Hands-On
IO Interactive has dropped the first playable footage of 007 First Light, and it's a surprise: the studio behind the World of Assassination trilogy isn't just recycling its Hitman formula. This new entry attempts to build a credible origin story for James Bond, balancing surgical infiltration with unrestrained action. After several hours with the game, here's what stands out — and what still gives us pause.
007 First Light: IO Interactive Reveals Its Assassin Sandbox — And It's Ambitious
IO Interactive isn't recycling its Hitman playbook: 007 First Light shapes up as a complete overhaul of the spy sandbox, with gameplay mechanics built around a young, impulsive Bond—still learning the ropes. Infiltration, hand-to-hand combat, gadgets, freedom of approach—everything seems in place. But between a polished trailer and a game that delivers on its promises, there's a gap only launch day will close. A close look at what IO is showing, and what it's still holding back.