The next major James Bond adventure arrives in 2026, with Hitman developed by Hitman creator IO Interactive, this upcoming third-person stealth-action title is set to redefine what a James Bond game can be, offering a fresh origin story that steps away from movie adaptations and embraces an entirely original vision of the world’s most famous spy.

Initially announced as Project 007, the game was officially named and given a detailed presentation at Gamescom 2025. Since that event, trailers, casting announcements, and gameplay information have consistently heightened anticipation. With the launch just months away, here is a comprehensive overview of 007 First Light, covering its release date, storyline, gameplay mechanics, cast, available platforms, and pre-order editions.

What Is 007 First Light?

007 First Light is a brand-new stealth-action adventure built from the ground up by IO Interactive. Rather than retelling a familiar Bond film, the studio is crafting the first-ever interactive James Bond origin story, focusing on how Bond earns his legendary 00 status.

Drawing heavily from IO Interactive’s mastery of stealth design while expanding into cinematic action, the game blends spycraft, gadgets, hand-to-hand combat, gunplay, and globe-trotting set pieces into a modern Bond fantasy.

007 First Light Release Date and Platforms

Release date: May 27, 2026

Originally planned for March, the game was delayed slightly to allow additional polish and refinement. When it launches, 007 First Light will be available on:

• PlayStation 5

• Xbox Series X/S

• PC (Steam and Epic Games Store)

• Nintendo Switch 2

IO Interactive has confirmed that the game is designed as a major multiplatform release, with performance optimized for current-generation hardware.

An Original Bond Story, Not a Movie Tie-In

Unlike earlier 007 games, First Light presents a completely original story inspired by Ian Fleming's novels instead of being based on a specific film.

Players step into the role of a 26-year-old James Bond, long before the tuxedos, martinis, and iconic catchphrases. Orphaned at a young age and shaped by discipline, rebellion, and instinct, this younger Bond is recruited into MI6 after a pivotal incident during his military service.

The story follows his journey through the 00 program as he learns what it truly means to hold a “license to kill.” IO Interactive has described this version of Bond as more raw, more relatable, and still discovering the charm and confidence fans associate with the character.

Familiar Faces and a Star-Studded Cast

IO Interactive has assembled an impressive cast to bring its new Bond universe to life:

• Patrick Gibson stars as James Bond, providing both voice and likeness

• Lenny Kravitz plays Bawma, a charismatic and dangerous black-market kingpin

• Priyanga Burford as M

• Alastair Mackenzie as Q

• Kiera Lester as Miss Moneypenny

• Lennie James as Bond’s mentor, John Greenway

• Gemma Chan as Dr. Selina Tan

• Noémie Nakai as DGSE agent Miss Roth

Significantly, Bond is an entirely original "digital Bond," not based on any past film actor, granting IO Interactive full creative freedom.

007 First Light Gameplay: Location, Stealth, Action, and Spycraft Combined

At its core, 007 First Light is a third-person action-adventure game that focuses heavily on stealth. Players can choose how they complete missions, whether by moving quietly or taking a more direct approach, with the game rewarding smart thinking and creative play.

Key Locations in 007 First Light:

• Kensington, England: Attend a high-profile corporate gala at one of London’s most famous museums. Blend in with the crowd, enjoy some champagne, admire the art, and plan your next move as Bond.

• Slovakia: Take on your first field mission at the Grand Carpathian Hotel during a global chess tournament. The beautiful High Tatra Mountains, with forests, lakes, and classic architecture, set the stage for an exciting spy adventure.

  
  

More locations will be revealed as the game’s release approaches.

Key Gameplay Features:

• Stealth and sneaking inspired by Hitman, but with more action and excitement

• Spy skills like listening to conversations, spotting clues in the environment, and stealing items from guards

• Instinct system that helps Bond handle tense moments or slow things down during fights

• Useful gadgets such as hacking tools, scanners, and laser cutters

• Smooth combat that blends shooting with hand-to-hand fighting

• Exciting car chases and big, cinematic action moments

IO Interactive gives players plenty of freedom, allowing missions to be completed in different ways while keeping the story moving at a steady pace.

007 First Light Trailers and Visual Style

The first trailers show a worldwide adventure with beautiful locations, exciting action scenes, and quieter spy moments. Players will visit places ranging from fancy events to secret labs and hidden bases, mixing big action with smart, tactical gameplay.

Visually, 007 First Light feels like a modern Bond movie brought to life. It combines the stylish look of the films with IO Interactive’s detailed level design, making each location feel cinematic while still being fun to play.

007 First Light Pre-Orders and Special Editions

Pre-orders for 007 First Light are now live across all platforms.

Editions Available:

• Standard Edition – Includes 24-hour early access

• Specialist Edition – Bonus outfits, weapon skins, and gadgets

• Legacy Edition – Includes all digital bonuses plus a Golden Gun figurine, steelbook case, and exclusive cosmetic items

All digital pre-orders grant early access and exclusive cosmetic rewards.

PC System Requirements

For 007 First Light, the minimum PC requirements will let you play the game at 1080p with around 30 FPS, using a mid-range processor, a GTX 1660–level graphics card, 16GB RAM, and Windows 10 or 11.

The recommended requirements are meant for a smoother and more stable experience, with better visuals and higher frame rates, requiring a stronger CPU, a more powerful GPU like the RTX 3060 Ti, and 32GB RAM.

Why 007 First Light Matters

With no new James Bond movie coming soon, 007 First Light feels like the biggest step forward for the series in years. IO Interactive isn’t just creating another licensed game—it’s laying the groundwork for a new future for James Bond in gaming.

If it succeeds, 007 First Light could be the start of a long-running Bond game series, similar to what the studio achieved with Hitman.