IO Interactive, the developer behind the acclaimed Hitman series, is shifting from assassinations to espionage with its new game, 007: First Light. The title is a reimagined origin story that follows a less-than-refined Bond as he hunts down a rogue agent. During a closed-door briefing at Gamescom, the team showed off early gameplay that blends stealth, social interaction, and high-octane action.
Read: Study finds signs of accelerated aging in stem cells exposed to space
The demo began with Bond trying to infiltrate a mansion. Like in Hitman, the gameplay is a creative sandbox, allowing Bond to sneak around and use environmental distractions. The core difference, however, is the emphasis on social interaction. Bond can flirt with staff and bluff his way through areas, using his charisma to progress. This adds a new layer of gameplay that moves beyond just violence and stealth.
A key gadget is the Omega-branded Q Watch, which acts as the game’s HUD. It elegantly displays location markers, weapon selections, and gadgets, while also helping Bond analyse the environment for opportunities. IO Interactive says players will have a degree of freedom in how they approach missions, even if the demo only showed one path.
The demo then transitioned into a series of action set pieces, starting with an exciting car chase that felt reminiscent of the Uncharted series. Filled with destruction and near-misses, the chase highlights the more chaotic side of the game. However, it was clear that the chase’s progression was scripted, with Bond unable to catch his target until the game allowed it.
See also
The final segment showcased the gunplay as Bond stormed an airbase to pursue his target. It’s a mix of cover-based shooting and environmental tactics. A particularly memorable moment came after Bond made it onto a military transport plane. Using his Q Watch, he tilted the aircraft, sending enemies and cargo flying out the back.
007: First Light looks like it will cover all the classic James Bond movie beats. While another origin story might not be what some fans want, IO Interactive’s unique blend of stealth, social mechanics, and explosive action could make this a truly unique entry in the Bond video game franchise.
