The wait is almost over for the most anticipated return of the world’s favorite secret agent to the gaming world in 007 First Light. IO Interactive has officially pulled back the curtain on the opening for the game, and it is every bit as cinematic as a big-screen Bond debut.
I’m not quite sure why it’s surprising, but it’s been great to see such a classic approach to Bond. It adds a layer of detail and affection for the franchise. And definitely shows IO Interactive are trying to deliver a proper James Bond experience in 007 First Light.
We love IO Interactive and their work, here at Dying Art Media. So all this does is stoke the fires of excitement for us, even more.
Lana Del Rey x David Arnold
The highlight of the week is undoubtedly the release of the game’s official theme song, titled First Light. Performed by Lana Del Rey, the track is a haunting, orchestral masterpiece that fans have been dreaming of for over a decade.
Co-written and composed with Bond legend David Arnold, the man behind the scores for Casino Royale and Tomorrow Never Dies, the song blends Lana’s signature cinematic elegance with classic 007 brass and string motifs.
Arnold noted that the song is designed to intrigue, excite, and beckon us in, while Lana’s lyrics lean heavily into the themes of a raw, inexperienced James Bond, in 007 First Light.
The Title Sequence
Following the song’s debut, IO Interactive dropped the official Title Sequence, and it looks like a love letter to the Maurice Binder or Daniel Kleinman intros of the film franchise.
The sequence features abstract silhouettes and golden light patterns that transition into gun barrel motifs. The sequence credits confirm Patrick Gibson as the voice of a young James Bond. Interestingly, the credits also confirm a role for Lenny Kravitz, who will play a black-market dealer named Bawma.
This is just an intro for a game. Let it sink in for a moment. Have we had any other games, Bond or otherwise, pre-release their intro and follow such a critical part of a movie franchise? 007 First Light is making all the right noises.
Not some awful Paul McCartney Destiny track. A proper James Bond theme and intro sequence.
Game Features and Story
Unlike previous Bond games that adapted existing movies, 007 First Light is a fully original origin story. Players will step into the shoes of a rookie recruit within MI6, long before he becomes the polished 00 agent we know.
The gameplay is a mix of social stealth, high-octane gunplay, and gadgetry, focusing on a younger and more reckless version of the protagonist.
IO Interactive are one of our favourite developers and publishers. Delivering hit after hit with Hitman. Our faith in them to deliver is incredibly high, and with each update and trailer, they just further bolster that sentiment.
Understanding what makes a Bond movie a movie, and what elements need to transition into a game is really important. Mix that in with their stealth credentials, and it feels like we’re really in for a treat.
Release Date and Platforms
Mark your calendars: 007 First Light is set to launch on May 27, 2026.
The game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC.
A version for the Nintendo Switch 2 is planned for Summer 2026 following a slight delay to ensure technical parity. For those interested in accessories, a limited edition First Light DualSense controller featuring a golden barrel design was also recently revealed for PlayStation fans.
Pre-orders are open now, offering a 24-hour early access period for those who purchase the Deluxe Edition. Whilst we don’t usually recommend pre-ordering games in this day and age. 007 First Light will be an exception this year. Of course, you can let us take the hit and see what we think first? Happy to save you the money if we can.
It all feels positive and there are so many factors in play here that give us a high degree of confidence in what will be delivered. But only time will tell.
Keep your eyes peeled as we try to keep you updated on 007 First Light, and will work to get a review up as soon as possible after release.
