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007 First Light is all about aura. It honors James Bond's legacy by bringing everything we love about him since the 1960's movies in the ultimate 007 videogame experience. Chases, shootings, explosions, plot twists, politics, charm, Bond Girls, guns, cars, boats, Q Technologies, Moneypenny, M, iconic characters, beautiful locations... All of that with great level design, combat and exploration. The name is Bond, James Bond.

After 30 years, ‘GoldenEye’ is finally retiring. With ‘007 First Light’, IO Interactive – the masterminds behind ‘Hitman’ – delivers the ultimate Bond experience that fans have been waiting for since the N64 classic.

007 First Light delivers on the promise of being the ultimate James Bond game by introducing a new version of the character that oozes charisma in every second on screen, alongside an excellent storyline supported by memorable side characters who help drive the narrative forward. The game also features an extremely creative level design that fully embraces its stealth and combat systems, making players truly feel like an MI6 spy.

007 First Light is, for me, an absolute masterpiece that shattered all pre-release anxieties and is, in fact, the greatest Bond video game of all time. IO Interactive masterfully balances explosive action with "Hitman"-inspired stealth, all brought to life by Patrick Gibson’s breathtaking, definitive performance as a young James Bond. Equal parts thrilling and cinematic, this incredible experience is a gorgeous love letter to the franchise and a sure-fire Game of the Year contender.

007 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.

007 First Light shines brightest when it leans into its hybrid identity. It doesn't try to be Hitman all the way, nor does it try to be a linear action game all the way. Instead, it constantly moves between both identities, creating a rhythm that feels distinct in modern action-adventure design.

007 First Light is, ultimately, a better game for the Bond nerd than I expected it would be. The team at IO Interactive clearly love the property and have done for it what Larian Studios did for Baldur’s Gate 3; provide a level of dedication to the source material that’s so fastidious that you might argue with a decision here or there, but it’s difficult to get too cynical about a game clearly made by genuine fans of the property.

With 007 First Light, IO Interactive demonstrates remarkable maturity in its first outing with the franchise, delivering one of the year's best action-adventure games as well as one of the finest portrayals of Bond across any medium.

The stealth masters behind Hitman go loud for this game about Bond's brilliant beginnings

First Light, as a title, has a dual meaning, too, since it’s not only an origin story for this rendition of James Bond, but also hopefully a new dawn for IOI’s ambitious interpretation of what a 007 game can be.

007 First Light features a slew of unforgettable moments, cinematic jaw-dropping scenes, amazingly smooth combat, and one heck of a story. With all this stacked up, 007 First Light it is a brilliant action adventure title, and my top pick for game of the year!

007 First Light might just be the best James Bond game ever. The way IOI has translated the Bond fantasy into a 14-hour globetrotting epic is masterful. It's a game full of spectacle, humour, action, and romance. Everything James Bond should be. New Bond owners Amazon must ensure this franchise continues.

As much as I love GoldenEye 007, it doesn't hold a candle to 007 First Light. IO Interactive perfectly captures the James Bond experience with cinematic flair.

007 First Light is the finest James Bond video game in nearly 30 years. Its cinematic single-player campaign is remarkable, offering a gripping, quintessentially Bond story, packaged together with some of the best action-adventure set pieces I've ever experienced. Whether you're a longtime Bond fan or a newcomer, 007 First Light is unmissable. Check Amazon Check Best Buy

007 First Light still maintains its advantage in a balanced game-style blend and the creation of the young Bond universe. Instead of competing with the films, it offers an alternate version of the main character.

007: First Light is not only the best 007 game ever made, but it also easily rivals the best games in the genre. IO Interactive delivers a special experience that honors the legacy of the greatest spy in entertainment history.

As stylish as the films themselves, 007 First Light is a brilliant depiction of Bond.

007 First Light is a strong new beginning for James Bond in games, combining a deep origin story, varied missions, stealth, action, excellent hand-to-hand combat, precise shooting, impressive visuals and classic Bond atmosphere. A few slower sections and the lack of a body-hiding mechanic are minor issues in an otherwise excellent spy adventure.

007 First Light is the best James Bond game ever – brilliantly written, superbly acted and brimming with that unique atmosphere we’ve come to expect from stories about Agent 007. IO Interactive has combined its own experience from Hitman with a cinematic adventure in the style of Uncharted, throwing in gadgets, spectacular missions, interesting characters and a very well-crafted story of the young Bond. Not everything works perfectly, as the game sometimes holds your hand (a bit too tightly!), but ultimately it’s a brilliant start to a new era of 007 in gaming.

007 First Light is not only the best James Bond video game to date, but also one of the greatest action-adventure titles of this generation, full of jaw-dropping action sequences, a compelling narrative, and superb acting.

In a year where major releases often arrive broken or soulless, 007 First Light stands out for doing the basics extraordinarily well: telling a good story, introducing characters that matter, and leaving the player wanting more. If this is the beginning of a new era for Bond in games, the future looks very promising.

007 First Light is a top-tier game both Bond fans and stealth action gamers will love. It has all the hallmarks of a great Bond film with some of the best stealth action gameplay in the industry. I’m excited to see one of my favorite franchises in the hands of a studio that loves it as much as I do. 007 First Light is worthy of the Bond legacy and easily one of the best games of the year.

"A Modern Bond Redefinition" 007 First Light delivers a powerful reimagining of the James Bond identity by seamlessly blending cinematic storytelling with fluid gameplay that relies on stealth, combat, and Bond's iconic gadgets. The experience is cohesive and polished visually, sound, and mechanically, successfully providing a compelling origin story. Despite some pacing issues and a less-than-punishable QTE system, it remains a well-rounded and high-production-value espionage game.

By deftly combining its stealth-sim expertise from the Hitman franchise with big-budget, blockbuster sensibilities, IO Interactive has crafted a stellar action espionage romp. Most of all, it's a reverence for the source material, and a willingness to tell new Bond stories, that elevates 007 First Light to greatness.

007 First Light perfectly captures the wit, charm, and skillset of the legendary spy, all whilst offering a special gameplay experience that’ll keep players enthralled from start to end. Between the brilliant level design, the perfect blend of stealth and action, and the gorgeous presentation, this really does live up to the cherished legacy of Bond in gaming, making it a must play for both those who love their cinematic adventures or those who just want to experience the best 007 video game experience since Goldeneye.

Were a lot of those purchases made by cult fans of the 007 series? Perhaps, but were they treated to a master craft of a title? 100%. Stealth, ingenuity, and the ability to use your surroundings to your own benefit are the backbone of this title. We will all get the same result in the end, but how you get there can differ in so many ways, which gives the title its longevity. To quote from the Goldfinger movie, this title is “Shocking, Positively Shocking”, in a good way!

007 First Light isn’t just a great Bond game – it’s one of the best action-adventure games released this decade. Witnessing the birth of the 007 legend through Bond’s eyes from the beginning is a tale that was long overdue for a video game adaptation, and IO Interactive has pulled it off flawlessly. Tie this origin story in with gameplay systems that prioritize the precision and creativity that 007 is known for, and you have what amounts to one of the best iterations of James Bond that we have seen in recent memory.

After 14 years away, 007 First Light doesn’t just bring James Bond back in style, it reminds us why he belongs in the gaming space in the first place.

James Bond 007 First Light is a huge surprise from IO Interactive. Far from being just a Hitman clone in disguise, the game establishes its own identity with rich gameplay, smart stealth mechanics, and explosive action. Despite disappointing driving sequences and the lack of English voice acting, the game manages to keep players engaged from start to finish thanks to its atmosphere, visuals, and great freedom of approach. An essential adventure for James Bond fans.

007 First Light is a confident, cinematic, mechanically varied and genuinely exciting Bond game that respects the franchise without being trapped by it. Most importantly, it made me believe in this new Bond. By the time he earns the number, it feels deserved. IO Interactive has built a modern 007 origin story that captures the fantasy, updates the stakes, and gives the character room to grow. This is one of the best games of the year, one of the best Bond games ever made, and easily one of my favorite PS5 experiences in a long time.

IO Interactive’s long-awaited James Bond origin story isn’t just the best 007 game ever made. It's one of the finest action games of the generation.

Bond is back and he's in fine form. 007 First Light is an excellent stealth game, and a brilliant James Bond game, offering up the best 007 experience in franchise history.

007 First Light is a game that presents us with a different kind of James Bond, treated with the weight, charm, and complexity that Ian Fleming's character deserves.

Centering on James Bond's origin story, 007 First Light blends action and stealth elements with flawless pacing, delivering that long-awaited, glorious return to the franchise. With its impactful melee combat mechanics, cleverly designed spy gadgets, and stellar acting performances, it places the player directly in the lead role of a breathtaking blockbuster movie.

For well over two decades, IO Interactive have become synonymous with their Hitman series. Since 2000, the Danish studio has released twelve games, w...

007: First Light is one of the most addictive video games in recent memory. Its narrative, character development, and gameplay are so expertly crafted that they immerse you completely in the world of espionage. I believe it is safe to say that this is the best game not only in the 007 franchise but in the entire espionage genre to date. Despite a few technical shortcomings, it shines brightly by blending elements borrowed from other franchises.

007 First Light brings James Bond back to gaming in an innovative story that celebrates the character's legacy, alongside franchise-best gameplay.

The James Bond saga could hardly have ended up in better hands. IO Interactive has crafted an adventure that perfectly captures the spirit of the 007 movies with an engaging story, stunning settings, and gameplay that's polished in every detail.

With superb writing, top-notch acting, beautiful cinematography, and expressive gameplay, 007 First Light is as sleek as it is engaging.

007 First Light is a superb adventure game that does so much more than simply coast on the popularity of its franchise.

IO Interactive feels like they've found a new home in the James Bond franchise. 007 First Light is a blast, with a tense and enthralling narrative that punches way higher and harder than anyone could have expected.

007 First Light is an excellent James Bond game: varied gameplay with intelligent approach options, a story worthy of the character's films, beautiful graphics, and great technical performance. The TacSim mode is a great way to increase the title's longevity. Although the campaign features many slow-paced moments with secondary characters and combat animations that repeat frequently, it's an adventure that deserves to be checked out by any 007 fan or action game enthusiast in general.

007 First Light is an exquisite taste of slick spy action and blockbuster storytelling, and is fully what a Bond game should be, but rarely is.

With a great cast of characters, tons of imagination, and just the right amount of player agency and replayability, there is a delightful playground full of gadgetry and spycraft that players will want to return to again and again. A confident return for the Double-O program, and - sorry Goldeneye - this is, without a doubt, the best James Bond game ever made.

007: First Light is a brilliant example of the potential that still exists in well-made single-player action games. Not a single cent of the considerable budget has been wasted – we’ve been treated to a superb, immersive spectacle that blurs the line between engaging gameplay and an interactive film. The somewhat drawn-out ending or a few simplified mechanics do nothing to spoil the overall impression, as it’s been a long time since I played a game where individual scenes and moments stuck so firmly in my memory.

007 First Light finally delivers a modern Bond game that understands the character beyond the action scenes. Combining stealth, spycraft, cinematic storytelling, and IO Interactive’s design strengths, this is easily the best James Bond game in decades.

Demonstrably obsessed with bringing the Bond fantasy to life in a way no one has ever managed before, 007 First Light is the best Bond game I’ve ever played.

007 First Light is a great stealth-action experience packaged into a very strong exploration of Bond's early days that's both as charming and as intriguing as we hoped it would be. Its missions are set in maps that take you all around the world, and are always brimming with possibilities as you make your way around them. This one's definitely among our favorites this year, and for good reason.

Not only an extremely authentic Bond adaptation but a masterful action adventure in its own right, that manages an impressive balance of storytelling and cinematic spectacle.

007 First Light understands that Bond isn’t just gadgets and gunfights. There’s a lot of charm and chaos, and an abundance of improvisation under pressure.

007 First Light has everything you could want from a Bond game: fist fights, shootouts, epic set-pieces, car chases, subterfuge, and more. There are some minor issues, such as the game's cover system being a little finicky at times, but on the whole this is a must-play for Bond fans as well as those who simply enjoy a good action game.

That is precisely why, after years away from the world of video games, First Light feels like more than the return of a famous name. It is an attempt to rediscover the essence of James Bond: a man who chooses to pursue the impossible precisely because everyone else believes it cannot be done.

With 007 First Light, IO Interactive has pulled off a true tour de force. The studio doesn’t just deliver a decent adaptation of the James Bond universe. The game crafts an experience that perfectly captures what has made the character so popular for so many years. Between its excellent storyline, charismatic characters, stunning environments, solid stealth mechanics, and spectacular presentation, the game checks nearly every box. Granted, the driving sequences could have been more ambitious, and managing gadget resources can sometimes be frustrating, but these flaws are minor compared to the game’s overall quality.

Entertainium Editors Eduardo and Gareth sit down to discuss their thoughts on James Bond’s latest outing, 007 First Light.

007 First Light is exactly what a modern-day James Bond game should be. Action-packed set pieces, decent combat, fun shooting, a story that feels like you’re responsible for the world and a smattering of sex appeal. All wrapped up in a beautiful, globe-trotting adventure that makes you stop and stare, whilst Bond, played by Patrick Gibson, spits out some snarky, witty comment to anyone that’ll listen. Great fun, great first entry in the IP and a game that’ll be up there come award season.

007 First Light is the perfect return of the world’s most famous secret agent, delivering an adventure worthy of the Bond legacy. Backed by excellent performances across its cast, the game excels at balancing thrilling action, explosive set pieces, and a compelling narrative that explores the origins of a young James Bond while immersing players in the shadowy world of espionage. IO Interactive has successfully leveraged its experience with the HITMAN franchise to create a Bond universe that feels both authentic and refreshingly original. More than just another adaptation, 007 First Light marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise and stands as the most significant Bond game since GoldenEye 007. Whether you’re a lifelong James Bond fan or simply enjoy sandbox-style stealth and espionage games with richly designed open-ended levels, 007 First Light deserves a place on your must-play list.

A vibrant, captivating action game that features spy thrills, spectacular shootouts, fierce fights, chases - basically everything you'd expect from a James Bond game.

Despite minor flaws, the Danes have created a very vibrant, charming, and damn impressive game - 20 hours of it pass like a single moment. 007 First Light is a true summer blockbuster from the world of video games. And that's a compliment.

007 First Light is an absolute triumph of a stealth-action game that is incredibly hard to put down once you start. IO Interactive has completely delivered on the promise that all Hitman games lead to Bond, creating a beautiful, player-led playground that values your creativity.

007 First Light is a very fun and enjoyable adventure that I believe anyone can enjoy. The action is top-notch, with great story beats and characters that draw you in from beginning to end. The shooting and combat aren’t amazing, but their adaptability still gives them value and makes them serviceable enough to sit alongside the stealth moments that have you picking off enemies one by one. IO Interactive went all out to prove that it is the right team to make a James Bond game these days, and I can only sit and eagerly await what comes next.

007 First Light delivers on almost all fronts, with great storytelling and writing, captivating gameplay, committed performances, and stunning visuals in one of the finest James Bond games ever made.

007 First Light is an incredibly well-executed action adventure blockbuster with a truly engrossing story, slick presentation, and layered gameplay systems. It marks a major evolution for IO Interactive, thrusting the studio into that coveted top tier of video game developers. It also has us excited for the team's future projects, whether that's more Bond or a return to Hitman at some point down the road.

James Bond's triumphant return to gaming in 007 First Light proves to be one of 2026's best titles.

We experienced a true adventure with 007 First Light, an adventure that brought back the spirit of classic-generation cinematic games focused mainly on pure fun. IO Interactive delivered an experience that lets us step into the role of James Bond as if we were watching a fully cinematic film with its own identity and high-level direction. All of this comes with enjoyable gameplay and varied, creative level design, in a journey that kept us excited and eager to see more of the 007 world in the future.

007 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.

007 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.

With high levels of production, compelling Hitman-lite gameplay and deeply engaging story that isn't out of place in a post Casino Royale world, First Light doesn’t compete with other Bond games, it competes with the Bond cinematic universe. However, just like James Bond, First Light is slightly flawed. Gameplay feels like a small step back for IOI, as it removes a lot of the freedom and improvisation Hitman became known for, some of the missions constantly move the goalposts, and despite a great performance, this version of Bond is a little short on charisma. If you stripped away the IP, what’s left underneath is a very good action-adventure, but the addition of one of the most iconic characters of all time means that 007 First Light supplants Goldeneye as the undisputed best Bond game.

IO Interactive’s take on James Bond is confident, stylish, and effortlessly absorbing. Patrick Gibson’s James Bond is charming and memorable without leaning on familiar interpretations, supported by a cast of likeable characters. The blend of stealth, action, and gadget play brings out the best of IO Interactive’s design strengths, resulting in an expertly paced, all-killer-no-filler experience that rarely overstays its welcome. It balances careful infiltration with more bombastic spectacle when needed, always encouraging improvisation over perfection. Hand-to-hand combat is a weak point, but First Light compensates with encounters that encourage experimentation and creative flow. This isn’t just a great James Bond game; it’s the best one yet.

There's no getting around it: 007 First Light represents a true turning point for the action/stealth genre.

IO Interactive's 007 First Light is easily the best Bond game we've seen. Rare's GoldenEye 007 was momentous when it launched, and it's stuck around the zeitgeist because it was a portal into Ian Fleming's world of shaken martinis and spy thrills we'd never seen before. What 007 First Light feels like is a playable, limited spy series that transports the player into a gripping and memorable espionage story.

A fresh take on Bond. A fantastic spy adventure. 007 First Light earns a 9/10 from Marooners' Rock thanks to its cinematic story, gorgeous visuals, and rewarding gameplay.

IO Interactive delivers a confident Bond origin story with 007 First Light, which balances social stealth, cinematic action, and improvisational combat, even if weak driving, forgiving AI, and slow early pacing stop it from reaching true elite-agent status.

Simply put, 007 First Light is a bullseye hit that should satisfy even the most devoted Bond fans.

007 First Light doesn’t merely earn its licence to kill. It earns its licence to stand alongside Naughty Dog with its kennel full of best action-adventure games of this modern generation.

007 First Light is not only the best Bond game ever made, but a frontrunner for the best game of 2026 so far.

While cinema is still searching for a new Bond, the studio IO Interactive has already found its virtual version. Rebellious and arrogant, Patrick Gibson does a fantastic job in the shoes of Her Majesty's secret agent without needing to wear a tuxedo, in a well-crafted adventure that marks the beginning of a new era for 007 in video games. With gameplay that cleverly distances itself from what we already know from Hitman to embrace a stronger narrative and the cinematic moments immortalized on the big screen, 007: First Light didn't need a license to dazzle.

Beyond its technical accomplishments, which are plenty, 007 First Light succeeds at breathing life into a character that has purposely remained larger than life.

007 First Light is one of those games that, after finishing it, makes you think: "Why don't they make more games like this?" It tells a remarkably captivating and engaging Bond story, featuring top-notch voice acting and performances that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Alongside its excellent narrative, the overall gameplay—brimming with stealth, interaction with spy gadgets, infiltration of various locations, and of course, the use of diplomatic and conversational skills—perfectly conveys the authentic feel of a true James Bond experience. Meanwhile, the chaotic action sequences, thanks to a dynamic and intertwined hand-to-hand combat and shooting system, allow you to make decisions on the fly, take action, and eliminate enemies in a variety of exciting ways. Finally, the diverse environments, superb atmospheric design, and iconic soundtrack come together to blend with all other aspects, creating an experience that you won't regret diving into.

IOI has done a fabulous job at making a great action-adventure game that just so happens to be wrapped up in James Bond clothing, and all that is expected of it.

007 First Light is one of the finest stealth games, successfully preserving the genre’s core elements while delivering them in a fresh and impressive way, making it one of the standout games of the year.

While it won't revolutionize the industry like GoldenEye did in its time, it undoubtedly delivers one of the best video game experiences of all time, putting you in the shoes of the iconic spy.

007 First Light is a crowning achievement for IO Interactive and the culmination of the studio’s growth over the years.

007 First Light is undoubtedly one of the best James Bond games released in the last twenty years and, even if it may not fully satisfy every Hitman fan, it is easily the most ambitious project the studio has undertaken to date. The blend of action and stealth does not always come together perfectly and, at times, the rather foolish antagonists push certain moments close to parody. Nevertheless, Bond fans are treated to one of the most cinematic and well-presented entries the franchise has ever seen, delivering an experience that captures the spirit of 007 remarkably well.

007 First Light is the Bond game the franchise has needed for fourteen years. A story that genuinely matters, melee combat with real weight, and a gadget system with actual consequences. The exploration segments drag more than they should, but when First Light lets Bond be Bond, it's hard to look away.

Everything the game offers feels solid, polished, and full of character. It is clear from every detail that the people behind this game have read the books, watched the films, and more importantly, understood why both of them matter. If this is the beginning of Bond’s new era in video games, the future looks very bright.

*007: The First Steps* not only reimagines the classic, but more importantly, it truly lives up to the legendary "007" designation.

"007 First Light" isn't a perfect action game, but it's excellent nonetheless.

007 First Light stands out as the best James Bond video game since GoldenEye, and succeeds in the far-from-certain feat of honoring the legend without merely imitating it. The origin story crafted by IO impresses with its narrative maturity and mechanical depth, leaving room for future developments. There are, however, aspects where the game could have been more daring. In fact, a certain underlying caution hangs over every aspect—a choice to play it safe that holds the game back just as it reaches the threshold of absolute excellence.

007 First Light shows that the Hitman developers have a good handle on how to make a James Bond game work within their wheelhouse. The emphasis on less flashy espionage alongside multiple avenues to accomplish your given goal works to this game's favor in helping to differentiate it from past 007 games. There's still enough action to prevent the game from feeling like a complete tonal shift from common expectations. The quality of the stealth helps compensate for the combat, which is good but can feel lacking in areas. The adventure remains fun but familiar, while the presentation is top-notch. The game is another good example of how to do a licensed game well, and the hope is that we'll see IO Interactive do more in this universe, whether that's DLC or a full-on sequel.

Despite its slow pace at the start and a few minor AI glitches, this is an experience that keeps players locked to their screens with its rich level designs, freedom oriented stealth mechanics, and satisfying cinematic action. A game that’s definitely worth a try.

007 First Light is one of the greatest James Bond games ever made. IO Interactive crafted a great third-person adventure game that mixes linear and open-ended levels and delivers an Oscar-worthy narrative to support it all. There's still room for improvement in the already-confirmed sequel (the credits close with 'James Bond will return'), but Bond's origin story is already a must for genre fans.

IO Interactive has really pulled off the best Bond game to date, giving us depth to a character that often is just regulated to being a generic action hero. Gibson's Bond is what you'd want from an origin story, as he is a Bond that feels perfect for the modern age.

IO Interactive delivers the James Bond comeback fans were waiting for, blending espionage, player freedom and cinematic spectacle in an adventure that respects the legacy while opening an exciting new chapter.

007 First Light got off to a rocky start: IO Interactive's departure from the Hitman franchise and a lackluster marketing campaign had fueled low expectations, which were promptly dashed. The game proves to be an excellent action game and, above all, a faithful yet original portrait of a new James Bond—young, developing, and perfectly placed in the present. From a purely gameplay perspective, the blend of Hitman and Uncharted works, driven by a pace that seamlessly alternates action, stealth, and cinematic direction. A few naivetés—slow enemies, tricky mechanics—and a solid technical framework in terms of frame rate, but not up to par with the excellence of the models and animations, dampen the momentum. The result is a very successful and highly recommended title, which only needs some final polish to make the leap.

Despite those complaints, 007 First Light is hard to put down. All of its charm carries it forward with a “just-one-more-act” quality that Bond filmmakers would be wise to study.

It’s a good thing that we hadn’t reviewed the game so quickly, too, because we just learned that new missions are on the way in the form of DLC, and I can’t wait to get back into Bond’s shoes. If you’re even remotely a fan of James Bond or secret agent flicks, you owe it to yourself to play 007 First Light. This game made me a fan, and now I’m considering exploring all of the 007 media to see if there’s anything I can predict, now that this game has set a new standard for future Bond experiences.

007 First Light is a potent cocktail of stealth, immersive sim, high-octane action, and brutal hand-to-hand combat, with a splash of high-speed driving thrown in a mix that's best served shaken, not stirred. The first Bond game in over a decade attempts to walk the line between multiple genres, and while the game is not without its issues, for the most part it does this successfully. A lack of consistent pacing, with fast-paced action segments stunted by extended walking sequences, does not do much to diminish the overall experience. Patrick Gibson's performance as the famous British spy perfectly captures the cocky, confident essence that fans would expect from the character in his early days, and fans of James Bond who have been starved of a new movie for several years will find themselves well satiated by IOI Interactive's ambitious offering.

If there is one thing I’m even more certain of than when we first learned that IO Interactive was making a 007 game, it’s that they are still the perfect studio to be making a Bond game. As many have called it, it’s a match made in heaven, and, as the first entry in what is hopefully a long-running series, I think the franchise is in safe hands. It’s one thing to make an experience on an established IP; another to actually understand what makes that experience so great. IO has captured the soul of a Bond experience in 007 First Light. With a strong foundation to build upon, a new era for MI6’s finest is upon us, and I cannot wait to see where IO Interactive takes the franchise next.

My 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.

Review key provided by the developer.

First Light is the best Bond experience ever seen in a video game —a complete package, true to the essence of the character, updated, and incredibly fun to play.

007 First Flight is a testament to originality in its script and marks the beginning of a new trilogy for the character in the world of video games.

07 First Light is a AAA title. A full-fledged blockbuster that brings the essence of a James Bond movie to the world of video games.

007 First Light turns a young Bond campaign into a spy adventure built around bluffing, gadgets, and recovering when missions fall apart. MI6, Q-Branch tools, and close-range fights keep the campaign moving, but the shooting, driving, and limited replay value hold it back. It’s a good fit if you want a story-led Bond game focused more on spy work than giant stealth sandboxes.

007: First Light isn't a flawless game, but it flawlessly understands what makes Bond so unique, and no game has ever fit us into the tuxedo quite this convincingly.

IOI has crafted a new Bond for a new age with a thrilling campaign and likeable characters. However, the lack of replayability and failure to address certain aspects inherent to the character make what could be an exceptional outing merely great.

007 First Light is just like its protagonist: charismatic, energetic, funny, charming; as well as impetuous, exaggerated, and immature.

007 First Light features a sophisticated and comprehensive infiltration system, as well as solid hand-to-hand combat mechanics. The lackluster cover system does not detract from what could mark a new era for 007 in the world of video games.

007 First Light delivers a strong Bond origin story with solid stealth, gadget use, and plenty of spy-thriller energy.

It's not perfect, but 007 First Light is a mostly great start to IO Interactive's all-new take on the James Bond universe.

It’s a stellar single player adventure that, if you’re a Bond fan, is well worth the price of admission. IOI have lovingly recreated this iconic character and the world he inhabits, and while it’s not perfect, it certainly ranks among the best in the franchise.

More seasoned Hitman veterans might have seen this one coming, then – when 007: First Light builds upon the formula that IO Interactive laid out with their flagship franchise, it fires on all cylinders, offering up some of the best stealth-focused action that we’ve seen in a Bond game to date.

007 First Light is one of the most pleasant surprises of recent years and, without a doubt, a successful return for James Bond to the gaming world. Fully aware of the weight of the name he carries, IO Interactive retains the key elements of the hero that made him famous, redefining him without undermining him, while offering compelling gameplay that will satisfy fans of action games with a strong cinematic flair.

First Light does not break the mold in any meaningful ways, while not being a bad game either. In fact, IOI's first forray with 007 is pretty great. And with their history of updates and meaningful sequels - I look forward where 007 goes next.

007 First Light is a good Bond game, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say it is a game-of-the-year contender. Did I have fun with the experience? Absolutely, i had fun time, playing as Bond, but it could have been better in several areas. IO Interactive has done a great job with the presentation, voice acting, and the overall feel of the adventure. If you’re a James Bond fan, or even a fan of games like Uncharted and Tomb Raider, this will be right up your street. I was pleased with the length of the game, clocking it at just under 20 hours, and I did take my time, dying on multiple occasions during my playthrough. Whilst I had some gripes with the lazy AI, clunky combat and some of the repetitive nature of the game, I’d love to see IO Interactive continue with the series. From what I’ve read, additional content is likely en route, and that is fantastic news. For a studio that has mostly had its toes in the Hitman franchise, though, it’s a bloody good attempt at diving into the world of Mr Bond. If you fancy picking up a copy on Xbox Series X/S, then you can do so HERE.

007 First Light is one of the most pleasant surprises of recent years, and certainly one of the best 007 games ever released

007 First Light is a great start to what will hopefully be a new series of games. There are certainly some areas to improve upon but what's here is a lot of fun and it does a great job of delivering a game that feels worthy of the franchise while setting the stage for more. 🍸

007 First Light comes highly recommended because it successfully brings the essence of James Bond back to the world of video games with a game that perfectly captures the character. It’s not a perfect title that seeks to reinvent the genre, but it does offer a very solid, well-designed adventure with plenty of personality. I can assure you that we are witnessing the return of the legendary MI6 agent.

Outstanding production values, thrilling action set pieces, strong performances, satisfying gunplay, and a great technical performance make this an impressive debut for IO Interactive’s 007. First Light earns its license to thrill.

First Light instead shines by blending the influences it has together into a cohesive Bond experience. IO Interactive shows an incredible understanding of what 007 should be. From the way the story is written and structured to the way they seamlessly transition from gameplay into their Action setpieces, it is simply superb in every aspect of being 007.

007 First Light is a fantastic action game that’s not without its share of faults. It has epic, high-octane action sequences, the gunplay is some of the best in the genre, and the hand-to-hand combat and stealth mechanics are fluid.

Diverse locations, great gameplay, excellent technology, and plenty of variety make 007 First Light a fantastic game. Even for me as a stealth-averse player, the stealth segments were enjoyable; a dash of Uncharted-style shooting, nice chase scenes, and a very interesting story round out the game nicely.

007 First Light is the best James Bond game in years because it understands the full fantasy of the character: observing, bluffing, improvising, and turning every mistake into action.

Undeniably, 007 First Light’s biggest accomplishment isn’t the fun gameplay, although that’s no slouch. It’s the creation of a new James Bond who wears the mantle with the same brash confidence of his movie counterparts. He slots right into the pantheon like he’s always been there.

Whilst the action sequences are a bit much, everything else is incredibly well crafted and will ensure you have a brilliant time discovering the origins of the most famous British spy of all time.

IO Interactive successfully adapts an action film franchise into a game that puts you in the driver’s seat. It also helps that this isn’t just Daniel Craig or Pierce Brosnan rehashing one of their films but a unique experience that is worth undertaking. Some parts never gelled with me, some parts probably never will, but all that is worth it to experience this definitive take on 007.

This unexpected hybrid of Hitman and Uncharted results in a fun, cinematic action-spy game. Full of charisma and worthy of its incredible legacy, 007: First Light is an exciting first step in a new series, where the good far outweighs the not-so-good.

James Bond's video game return is a delight from start to finish, with Hitman develop IO Interactive expertly lending its spy expertise to a new breed of interactive spy thriller.

007 First Light tells an authentic and highly entertaining origin story of the well-known MI6 agent, taking the best ideas from the Hitman series and perfecting them with franchise-typical elements. This worked best for me in the more open missions, but the shootouts, car chases and explosion-filled action sequences are absolutely essential to James Bond and I thoroughly enjoyed them. In some places the game could have used a bit more technical polish but I hope we'll see much more of this version of James Bond in the future.

Hitman fans, don't get your hopes up too high! Those looking for classic action-adventure games, come here!

That said, the game is not without flaws—such as shiny heads and repetitive mission structures—but these are easily forgiven thanks to its other strengths.

An explosive airfield shootout shifts into a death-defying stunt fit for the Pierce Brosnan-era of theatrical espionage.

007 First Light is everything a Bond game should be, taking inspiration from the biggest hits with sharp dialogue, inventive gadgets, classic cars, satisfying stealth, a great cast, and huge action set pieces.

007 First Light wisely repurposes what works in both universes but isn’t afraid to reimagine or ditch those parts that don’t.

007 First Light is less cerebral and replayable than IO's World of Assassination trilogy, but makes up for it with excellent fistfights and oodles of charm.

The best moments in 007 First Light are the ones where everything aligns for a few minutes, and you stop thinking about mechanics entirely.

While it doesn't pull up any roots, 007: First Light is a beautiful, cinematic action game that makes clever use of the IO formula. From the performance of Patrick Gibson to the iconic score, this is a game that tells a new story and basks in nostalgia in equal measure, giving James Bond a fresh angle in the process.

It falls short of excellence due to inconsistencies in its mechanics and the lack of an antagonist worthy of Bond. We hope Patrick Gibson's Bond gets another chance so he can officially debut his "00" title.

Although His Majesty’s most famous secret agent has a few issues, it’s incredibly hard to resist his charm.

007 First Light is very nice to play, very spectacular even if it tends to put us in a spectator seat. An original story-shaped adaptation where charismatic characters and ingredients, who license what it is, are respected. We are curious to see what the suite will offer for this version of 007.

It is likely the best James Bond game ever, but there's some qualifiers that drag 007 First Light down from being a complete knock-out.

Overall, 007: First Light unfortunately turned out to be a merely middling game, saved from a 6 only by its cinematic feel, the acting performances, and the strong level design. That said, I hear a sequel is in the works, and the foundation on display here is by no means something you couldn't build on. If the developers ironed out the NPC AI, and focused on some other gameplay mechanic instead of the platformer-style hopping around, this series could still go a very long way.

IO's take on the Bond-iverse shines, but not enough to compensate for the very familiar game around it.

But being a highly trained super-spy should feel more intricate than being Nathan Drake does, and every time that First Light tries to be that, it feels half-hearted.

007 First Light has the look, sound and occasional swagger of a Bond adventure, but once you start poking at its systems, the illusion quickly falls apart.

007 First Light llega tras tantos años sin un juego de James Bond. Acostumbrados a las últimas decepciones de otros estudios, esta vez se ha lanzado un juego con cariño al personaje con una historia que atrapa si conectas con ella. Una jugabilidad exquisita con mil opciones en el que no solo estaremos pegando tiros con licencia para matar, sino que tendremos la opción de tomar nuestras propias decisiones en base a una estrategia.

Con distintos modos de dificultad, coleccionables y una duración entre 15-20 horas, 007 First Light es un acercamiento a un James Bond joven con vistas a un futuro prometedor.

I'm not quite finished with 007 First Light just yet, but overall I'd say it's exactly what I was hoping for. The characterisation of this young Bond and his associates is really strong, and the globetrotting story lets you explore some great locations. It really shines in its sandbox missions, but shootouts have their moments too, and the whole thing weaves together really quite nicely. I'm really interested to see how the final few missions shake out, but beyond some technical quibbles and uncertainty on the driving, I'm pretty happy with IOI's new vision for James Bond.

IO Interactive delivers a magnificent gaming comeback for James Bond with 007 First Light, which proves worthy of the source material.