007 First Light Dev Was Keen Not To Make Its James Bond ‘A Superman From Day One’

Speaking during an interview with EDGE magazine, Hakan Abrak, Creative Director at IO Interactive for the upcoming 007 First Light, has revealed the developer wasn’t keen on depicting James Bond as a ‘superman from day one,’ stating that may not have been the most interesting path to take.

Abrak said the the team “didn’t want to create this Superman from day one” where “he’s on top of the world, and he’s hardened and seasoned, and he’s had his heartbreaks and now he’s hidden behind this iron armor. That’s not necessarily interesting.”

Martin Embargo, Narrative & Cinematic Director, chimed in by looking Dr. No, which depicted the British super spy as an already-seasoned agent despite it being the first film in the franchise. Clearly, this isn’t what IO Interactive is doing with 007 First Light, as he’s still very much learning the ropes.

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It is pretty insane that Dr No starts… and he’s just fully formed. He’s winning at baccarat against a beautiful woman, who wants nothing more than to have him take her home. He’s drinking, and he’s just kind of bored. This is just another Thursday for him. It’s wish-fulfillment at its maximum, right? But it’s not very relatable.

007 First Light highlights the earlier years of the British spy, weaving an origins story that showcases him on a mission to gain his license to kill. As a result, players will be stepping into the shoes of a 26-year-old Bond, and will expect to brush shoulders with iconic characters including M, Q, and Miss Moneypenny. IO Interactive has revealed it took inspiration from Ian Flemings novels and short stories for the game’s narrative.

007 First Light is scheduled for release on PS5, PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2 on March 27, 2026.

[Source – EDGE via GamesRadar]