- Publisher: Io Interactive
- Release Date: May 27, 2026
- Also On: PC, PlayStation 5
Buy Now
| Buy on |
|
- Critic score
- Publication
- By date
-
May 26, 2026In the end, IO’s take on James Bond was actually more like Hitman than I expected, but that’s not to say it’s simply Hitman by another name. As someone who has loved that series for nearly 25 years, it’s fascinating to see IO apply everything it’s learned. 007: First Light wisely repurposes what works in both universes but isn’t afraid to reimagine or ditch those parts that don’t. Though some aspects of the game do hinder the pacing, so much else feels authentic and riveting. As Hollywood seems uncertain about where to take Bond next, IO Interactive’s debut effort is supremely confident. “James Bond will return,” the movies always like to say. If and when IO’s Bond returns, it’ll have a great first act to follow.
-
Jun 1, 2026007 First Light sets a new benchmark for James Bond games and is an impressive achievement for IO Interactive, which successfully moves beyond its traditional formula to deliver a thrilling spy adventure. With spectacular action, clever gadgets, a strong technical execution, and an engaging story, it stands as a very polished AAA experience that appeals far beyond Bond fans.
-
Jun 1, 2026007 First Light delivers a massive, bombastic action-adventure that blends elements of IOI’s Hitman series with Uncharted. Its depiction of Bond balances being fresh while maintaining all the required characteristics, and it’s sold incredibly well by Gibson’s performance. This Bond’s first adventure is a worthwhile, satisfying, and creative outing from start to finish. All I can ask for now is even more silver screen-worthy adventures in the future.
-
May 29, 2026The overarching story is reasonably satisfying, but some of the twists and turns were a little on the predictable side. But what’s interesting is that I enjoyed seeing them play out anyway, because the writing and the performances sell every moment incredibly well...All these are minor quibbles, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this game to any Bond fan. If you want a globe-trotting adventure with truly bombastic action, plus a great cast and soundtrack, you should absolutely check this out. It's well worth a binge.
-
May 26, 2026007 First Light delivers a strong Bond origin story with solid stealth, gadget use, and plenty of spy-thriller energy. While performance issues and clunky melee combat hold it back, the story, level design, and replayability help it stand out. It is not perfect, but it is easily one of the strongest James Bond games in years.
-
May 28, 2026007 First Light is a triumph. It has a legitimate claim to the best James Bond game ever, managing to reboot the series whilst cherishing what makes it so special. It’s the start of a new era for Bond, which will leave you shaken, not stirred.
-
May 26, 2026007: First Light is not only one of the best stealth-action games we've had in years, but it's also the best James Bond game we've had in decades. IO Interactive was the perfect choice to develop a Bond game in the modern era, deftly weaving its dynamic stealth gameplay expertise with cinematic vigor wholly appropriate for an authentic James Bond experience. A triumph.
-
May 26, 2026007 First Light is a love letter to Bond fans and quite easily the best Bond game in nearly 30 years. With the Hitman DNA coupled with IO’s explosive take on Bond, First Light is frighteningly good and an absolutely wild ride worthy of your time.
-
Jun 23, 2026My time overall with the charismatic James Bond was a very well written spy story that will have you guessing who the bad guys are and who are the good guys for many hours. The cinematics are outstanding and visually the game looks amazing albeit with a few glitches here and there. The gadgets were fun to use but could have had more variety. The driving sequences could have been tighter, and the combat could use a tweak. But for the most part as a first installment in a long time for this storied spy master, I think it hits its target. Hopefully they will continue and grow this franchise in the future.