IO Interactive revealed that their new James Bond game, including the title 007 First Light, began as an evolution rather than a simple rebranding of their famed Hitman series. Despite distinct differences, the process started with an experiment that combined elements from both gaming worlds, ultimately securing the James Bond license through a clever demonstration.
The Strategy Behind Securing the License
Hakan Abrak, the director of 007 First Light, shared with IGN that the team won the rights by incorporating Daniel Craig’s likeness directly onto Agent 47’s character model during a classic Hitman mission. This helped showcase what a James Bond game could look like within IO Interactive’s signature living, breathing environments.
We actually did put Daniel Craig in there,
Abrak said.
We just modeled his head and put it in instead of Agent 47, just for demo purposes, giving an impression of what these living, breathing spaces mean in an IO game. And if you are acquainted with the franchise, there is a level called Sapienza with the virus in the caves underneath the compound. So we showed some things off there and, yeah, it was well received.
—Hakan Abrak, 007 First Light Director
The Choice of Sapienza as a Showcase Level
The selection of Sapienza for the demo was deliberate. This level captures the essence of the Bond fantasy: a sun-drenched, luxurious holiday destination that conceals a perilous secret beneath its surface. It perfectly highlights how the game’s environment allows players to experience both the glamour and danger intrinsic to the James Bond world.
Balancing Stealth, Action, and Social Interaction
IO Interactive designed the game to offer more than just combat and cut scenes. They emphasized the importance of social spaces where Bond uses his charm, bluff, and physical prowess to navigate challenges, reflecting a blend of stealth and action similar to both Hitman and Uncharted.
Not necessarily about only shooting and cut scenes – there’s certainly that in our game as well — but it’s also being able to explore the part of the Bond fantasy where he is in social spaces where he is using not only his fisticuffs, but also his charms and bluff and figuring out different ways in those social spaces to overcome the obstacles or get what he wants.
—Hakan Abrak, 007 First Light Director
Capturing the Human Side of James Bond
The depiction of James Bond in 007 First Light goes beyond the typical action hero stereotype. IO Interactive worked hard to present a character who feels genuinely human rather than just a flawless, idealized figure, adding depth to the iconic secret agent.
The human aspect of him is something we were really trying hard to give you.
—Hakan Abrak, 007 First Light Director
Looking Ahead for the James Bond Game Franchise
IO Interactive’s approach—merging their established gameplay strengths with the unique identity of James Bond—signals a hopeful future for the franchise. By respecting the legacy of GoldenEye and other classic titles, the team aims to create a fresh, memorable experience that resonates with fans and newcomers alike. This release marks a significant moment for players eager to dive into a James Bond game that balances stealth, action, and intrigue.
