007: First Light – Stealth Meets Action

IO Interactive, the studio behind the acclaimed Hitman series, is developing a James Bond game titled 007: First Light. Speaking at Summer Game Fest, franchise director Jonathan Lacaille discussed how the team is adapting its signature systemic stealth design to fit the more action-oriented world of 007. The studio is building entirely new features, including driving mechanics and expanded combat, to capture Bond’s diverse skill set.

Blending Systemic Design with Cinematic Action

Lacaille acknowledged the challenge of blending IOI’s systemic stealth with the more linear, action-heavy sequences that Bond demands. The debut trailer at Summer Game Fest showcased cinematic set-pieces, but the underlying systems remain open-ended. Lacaille emphasized that the team’s expertise in sandbox level design will still be central to the experience. The result aims to offer both careful planning and explosive action.

Combat, Driving, and Gadgets

Unlike in Hitman, where shooting often leads to failure, 007: First Light embraces gunplay as a core mechanic. ‘Shooting usually was a failing condition in Hitman, and here it’s a big part of the game,’ Lacaille explained. However, the game is not a simple shooter; IOI is introducing a variety of gadgets to allow players to approach situations in ‘varied and spread out’ ways, enabling them to feel as clever as Bond. Driving required entirely new physics and design. The goal is to make players feel like Bond through choice.

Looking Ahead

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