007 First Light

007 First Light marks IO Interactive's bold entry into the Bond universe, delivering a single-player espionage action-adventure that chronicles James Bond's earliest days in the Secret Intelligence Service. Set before he earns his 00 status, the game follows a young, resourceful, and occasionally reckless MI6 recruit through a global training programme that tests his instincts, intellect, and survival. With a campaign spanning 12 missions across five international locations, 007 First Light blends social stealth, gadget-driven combat, and cinematic storytelling into a package that feels unmistakably Bond — and unmistakably IO Interactive.

Story — The making of a Double-O

The narrative of 007 First Light begins in London, where Bond enters MI6's rigorous selection programme. Players experience formative moments that shape the man who would become 007: from his first encounter with M at Thames House to a high-stakes mission in Monaco that exposes a mole within the service. The story draws on Bond's literary origins while weaving in original characters and conflicts that give IO Interactive creative freedom to explore untold chapters of Bond's early career. Key allies include M, Moneypenny, and Q, each portrayed with fresh interpretations that ground the fantastical spy world in something approaching realism.

Gameplay — Stealth, combat, and player choice

007 First Light offers a dual-path approach to every mission: stealth or combat. Each approach is fully supported with dedicated tools and mechanical depth. The stealth path relies on disguises, environmental hiding, silent takedowns, and gadget usage to ghost through restricted areas without raising alarms. The combat path delivers fluid third-person shooting with a cover system reminiscent of IO Interactive's tactical pedigree, supported by five weapon categories and a suite of Bond-appropriate gadgets. Missions are replayable, and the game tracks both approaches separately, awarding Ghost rating for perfect stealth completions and Fighter rating for combat mastery.

Stealth mechanics — Social espionage at its finest

IO Interactive brings its signature social stealth philosophy from the Hitman series into 007 First Light. Each mission features three to five obtainable disguises — civilian staff, security guards, technicians, and VIP escorts — that grant access to restricted zones. Suspicion builds based on behaviour: sprinting near guards, entering clearly off-limits rooms, or brandishing a weapon in a disguise context. The visibility indicator tracks light exposure and enemy line of sight, rewarding players who stay in shadows and use environmental cover. The visor scan (RB/R1) highlights intel pickups, safe locations, and interactive environmental elements, making it an essential tool for both stealth and exploration.

Gadgets and gear

No Bond game would be complete without gadgets, and 007 First Light delivers with a curated arsenal that upgrades throughout the campaign. The smartwatch scanner marks enemies through walls, the explosive pen functions as a remote-detonated charge, the grapple hook opens vertical flanking routes, and the EMP charge disables electronics and armoured foes. Weapon loadouts span pistols, SMGs, assault rifles, shotguns, and sniper rifles, each with unlockable variants earned through mission completion and collectible hunting. Safes hidden across every mission contain rare blueprints, cosmetics, and lore documents that enrich the world.