007 First Light Gameplay Revealed in State of Play Showcase

IO Interactive has given the first extended look at 007 First Light, the long-awaited James Bond video game that marks the franchise’s return to the medium after more than a decade. Shown during a PlayStation State of Play presentation, the footage displayed the game’s dual focus on espionage-driven stealth and cinematic action, while also setting the tone for this version of the character — a younger Bond still finding his place within MI6.

The gameplay demonstration opened with Bond infiltrating a luxurious Slovakian hotel. Disguised as a chauffeur, he navigates a mission alongside other 00 agents. The early segment highlighted the emphasis on social stealth, where Bond blends into crowds, converses with guests, distracts guards, and uses environmental tricks to move undetected. These systems echo IOI’s Hitman legacy, allowing players to approach objectives in multiple ways, whether by sneaking through back entrances or pickpocketing items to progress.

We previously published excerpts from the developer's interview. Previous updates revealed how the Hitman series shaped 007: First Light and what to expect from it. A perfect complement to the gameplay already ahead.

As the mission escalated, the showcase transitioned into a full-speed car chase featuring Bond’s classic Aston Martin. This sequence led directly into a large-scale airstrip shootout, where the rogue agent 009 attempts to escape aboard a plane. Here, players saw Bond’s “License to Kill” mechanic, which permits lethal force when his life is in danger. It marked a contrast to the slower-paced infiltration, highlighting how the game shifts between open-ended stealth and guided action set pieces.

IO Interactive has stressed that gadgets will play a central role throughout 007 First Light. Bond’s Omega Q Watch acts as a key tool, highlighting interactive objects and analyzing his environment in a way reminiscent of detective vision systems from other games. Classic gadgetry is also featured, including smoke devices, lasers, darts that incapacitate guards, and hacking capabilities for security systems. The developers have emphasized that these tools will not be limited to scripted moments but will be integrated into regular gameplay.

Lead game designer Andreas Krogh explained how IOI approached the design of this Bond:

"007 First Light’s Bond is not the established veteran audiences know from the films. He is younger, less experienced, and still finding his footing as a 00 agent." — Andreas Krogh

This portrayal stands apart from most James Bond adaptations, where the character is typically shown as fully formed and already trusted with high-level assignments. In 007 First Light, Bond operates under stricter oversight and often works alongside senior agents. This narrative choice allows for a different type of progression, as players experience Bond earning his reputation rather than stepping into it fully realized.

The developers also highlighted how missions will alternate between what they call “core gameplay” and “guided gameplay.” The core segments provide player freedom to explore, manipulate NPCs, and solve infiltration challenges with multiple approaches. Guided gameplay sequences, such as car chases or large firefights, bring more structure and cinematic pacing. This blend aims to balance IOI’s sandbox design expertise with the cinematic expectations tied to the James Bond franchise.

007 First Light represents the first James Bond game since 2012’s 007 Legends, which was poorly received. With the success of the Hitman: World of Assassination trilogy, IO Interactive brings proven experience in crafting open-ended stealth environments, while the addition of action-heavy set pieces introduces the kind of spectacle long associated with Bond films.

The State of Play showcase suggested that IOI is working to balance both sides of the Bond experience: the methodical spy work that rewards patience and planning, and the explosive moments that deliver on the cinematic spectacle of the franchise. While a release date has not yet been set, the gameplay reveal positions 007 First Light as a significant return for James Bond in gaming.