007 First Light Leaks Force IO Interactive to Release Early Gameplay
▼ Summary
– IO Interactive released the first 13 minutes of 007 First Light’s opening mission after copies leaked before the May 26 early access launch.
– The studio advised fans to avoid spoilers by waiting for the official launch, but shared the footage for those who already saw unofficial uploads.
– The leaked gameplay shows Bond in the ocean after his helicopter is shot down, sneaking past guards in a rainy, Metal Gear-like sequence.
– This opening mission appears to depict a younger, less suave Bond, differing from previous pre-release footage.
– 007 First Light launches May 27 for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version coming later.
IO Interactive has released an official look at the opening mission from 007 First Light after leaked copies of the game surfaced online ahead of its scheduled launch.
Over the weekend, James Bond enthusiasts spotted footage from the new title making its way onto social media before being taken down. With early access set to begin May 26 and the full release following on May 27, it became clear that some players had obtained their copies ahead of time and quickly shared gameplay clips online.
The developer responded to the situation on social media, urging its most eager fans to hold off until the official launch if they wish to avoid spoilers. However, for those who may have already stumbled upon an unauthorized upload, the Hitman studio offered a polished look at the first 13 minutes of 007 First Light.
“Since a few users got hold of the disc early,” IOI stated, “watch the first 13 minutes of the opening mission in 007 First Light, as intended on day 1.”
The footage begins with Bond plunging into the ocean after his helicopter is shot down. Observers have noted strong Metal Gear Solid influences throughout the sequence, as the future agent sneaks past armed guards, crouches behind rain-soaked rocks, and scales cliffs to reach safety.
This version of 007 feels less polished than previous promotional material, but that aligns with the game’s narrative. The opening segment of First Light appears to take place earlier in Bond’s career, explaining the rougher edge. The introductory mission likely extends well beyond the 13-minute clip, but IO Interactive chose to share only this portion after leaks dampened some of the initial excitement.
007 First Light launches this week for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. A Nintendo Switch 2 version remains in development with a later release date. While waiting, fans can explore our history of James Bond video games or read our latest preview of the title.
(Source: IGN)
