007: First Light
News, coverage and analysis tracking 007: First Light across the outlets.- SVG REVIEW 007: First LightThis article is a transcript excerpt from the So Videogames Podcast, Episode 493: British Invasion, covering the score awarded to the game 007: First Light. The review was originally posted on Gamecritics.com.
- After Xbox Pulls Funding, Hitman Dev Is Closing A Studio And Laying People OffIO Interactive is closing its Istanbul studio and laying off staff after Xbox withdrew funding for its upcoming RPG, Project Fantasy. The studio has regained full ownership of the project and its IP, but these cuts were deemed necessary for the company's long-term future and to focus on its core internal titles.
Shack Chat: What's your Game of the Mid-Year?Shacknews staff members share their personal favorite games released in the first half of 2026. Titles like Pragmata, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream, Star Fox, and Marathon are highlighted for their engaging gameplay, compelling stories, and unique experiences.
Fantasy meets reality: Why turmoil at Xbox is impacting IO Interactive and Project FantasyIO Interactive's online fantasy RPG, Project Fantasy, is in turmoil after Xbox Game Studios Publishing reportedly pulled its funding. Despite this setback, IO Interactive remains committed to the project and is restructuring to continue development. This situation highlights the shifting priorities within Xbox under new CEO Asha Sharma, impacting independent studios reliant on external partnerships.
IO Interactive look set for layoffs as their external partner for Project Fantasy pulls outIO Interactive is facing imminent layoffs due to the termination of its relationship with an external partner for its unannounced game, Project Fantasy. While the studio remains committed to the game's development, the split necessitates staffing changes. Project Fantasy was previously revealed in documents to be intended for publishing by Xbox Game Studios.- 007: First Light ReviewThis review of 007: First Light highlights its high earning potential while noting some awkward controls. The article also humorously questions the appearance of Lenny Kravitz in the game.
- Morning ConsolidationAnalysts are debating whether future consoles like the PlayStation 6 and Xbox Helix will exceed $1000, with some suggesting a floor price of around $1000. The article also briefly mentions the Nintendo Switch version of the game 007: First Light.
Following Summer Game Fest, Gothic Remake is the standout new release in June 2026June 2026 will see the release of several notable games, with Gothic Remake leading the pack. Developed by Alkimia Interactive, this action RPG remake of the 2001 classic features modernized controls and expanded features. Other significant releases include Square Enix's The Adventures of Elliott: Millennium Tales, a new action RPG from Team Asano, and IO Interactive's 007: First Light, a James Bond action game. The article also highlights recent releases like Forza Horizon 6 and mentions potential upcoming titles such as Guild Wars 3 and Resident Evil Veronica.- Best Games of 2026 So FarThis article highlights the best games released in 2026 so far, including titles like Mewgenics and 007: First Light. It serves as a curated list for players looking for top-tier gaming experiences.
Ben Starr Auditioned For James Bond In First Light, But He’s “So F**king Happy” He Didn’t Get itActor Ben Starr, known for his roles in Final Fantasy XVI and Hades 2, revealed he auditioned for the role of James Bond in 007: First Light but was ultimately happy he didn't get it. He praised Patrick Gibson, who secured the role, and admitted he "kind of crumbled under the pressure" during his audition. Starr also mentioned his upcoming project in the strategy game Stronghold 4.
IGN Live 2026 in Los Angeles (photos) — MP3s & NPCsIGN Live 2026 took place in Los Angeles, featuring panels with voice actors, celebrity meet-and-greets, and prize giveaways. The event also showcased new game announcements such as Barbie Rewind and Persona 6, and offered playable demos for titles like 007: First Light and WWE 2K26.
007: First Light sales hit 3M in less than two weeksIO Interactive's latest game, 007: First Light, has achieved over 3 million sales in less than two weeks, making it the studio's fastest-selling title to date. CEO Hakan Abrak expressed confidence in the game's profitability, noting that sales have exceeded forecasts. The future of a potential sequel remains uncertain as Amazon, the rights holder for the 007 franchise, has alluded to IO Interactive potentially not returning.
007 First Light Sequel “Should Be Made,” Says Amazon’s Head of GamingAmazon Game Studios Head of Gaming Jeff Gattis clarified that while he did not confirm Amazon is publishing the next James Bond game, he believes a sequel to 007 First Light "should be made." Gattis stated that IO Interactive has been a great partner and that the decision to proceed with a sequel depends on market appetite and the profitability of the current game, with Amazon MGM owning the James Bond IP rights.- Engagement Ring007 First Light has officially sold 2.7 million copies, with an estimated three million units sold. This sales milestone was reported by GamesIndustry.biz.
Nintendo pre-order updates – June 7, 2026 – Rayman Legends Retold, Toy Story, moreNintendo has provided pre-order updates for the week of June 7, 2026, detailing upcoming releases for the Nintendo Switch and the unreleased Switch 2. The list includes a variety of games such as Rayman Legends Retold, Toy Story: Retro Roundup, and Splatoon Raiders, alongside amiibo and book releases across North America, Canada, and the UK.
007 First Light Review – From Hitman With Love007 First Light is a highly acclaimed James Bond game that successfully blends explosive action, clever stealth, and spy gadgetry. Developed and published by IO Interactive, the game is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, and PC, and is praised for its compelling new take on the iconic spy, engaging globe-trotting narrative, and satisfying mix of gameplay styles, despite minor criticisms regarding its opening hours and some game systems.
IO Interactive Delighted About 007 First Light Performance, Explains Development BudgetIO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak expressed delight over 007 First Light selling 3 million copies in its first week, exceeding expectations. He confirmed the game's reported $200 million budget includes development, marketing, and bonuses, though not solely the product cost. Future sequels will be published by Amazon Game Studios.- 007 First Light speeds ahead of studio expectations with 3 million copies sold in 10 daysThe game 007 First Light has surpassed expectations, selling over 3 million copies within its first 10 days of release. This significant sales milestone indicates strong player reception for the title.
007 First Light Budget Was Not $200 Million, Exec Says As Game Passes 3 Million SalesIO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak stated that the James Bond game 007 First Light did not cost $200 million to develop, clarifying that the figure includes bonuses, marketing, and other expenses beyond the game's production cost. The game has surpassed 3 million sales and is tracking above internal forecasts. Abrak also discussed potential sequel involvement with Amazon and how future titles might see reduced development costs, referencing the Hitman series' budget reductions.
Summer Game Fest 2026 Part 2: Racing, Horror, Fighting Games & Major Updates | Invision Game CommunitySummer Game Fest 2026 Part 2 showcased a wide array of new games and updates across multiple genres including racing, fighting, and horror. Major announcements included expansions for Monster Hunter Wilds, new content for Street Fighter 6 and Palworld, and reveals for games like Hot Wheels Infinite Rush and Stellar Blade: Blood Rain. The event also highlighted upcoming titles for the Nintendo Switch 2 and concluded with the unveiling of Final Fantasy VII Revelation.