Long-Awaited British Spy Franchise's First Major Video Game in Over a Decade Launches to Rave Reviews
The world's most famous spy is back, this time on PlayStation and Xbox.
007 First Light, the first major James Bond video game in over a decade, launches Wednesday, May 27 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC, with a Nintendo Switch 2 release planned for later this year.
The new game comes from IO Interactive, the studio behind the Hitman series, and reframes Bond as a young recruit just earning his license to kill. Irish actor Patrick Gibson plays Bond, cast in the role last year. It is the franchise's first major console game since 2012's 007 Legends.
Reviews Are Already In, and They're Strong
Reviews dropped Tuesday and the response has been enthusiastic. 007 First Light holds an 87 on Metacritic across PS5 and PC, putting it among the highest-rated games of 2026 so far. IGN said the game has made "a fabulous first impression," and Vicewrote that it is "easily the best James Bond game since GoldenEye."
Early access opened Tuesday for anyone who pre-ordered the game.
Related: Lana Del Rey Unveils New James Bond Theme Song for ‘007: First Light' Video Game
A New Villain and a Lana Del Rey Theme
The game's main villain, Bawma, is voiced by Lenny Kravitz, who has described his character as a "wild pirate ruler." The theme song, also titled "First Light," was recorded by Lana Del Rey in collaboration with longtime Bond composer David Arnold.
007 First Light launches globally on Wednesday, May 27 at 10 a.m. ET on PS5, Xbox Series X/S and PC. A Nintendo Switch 2 version is expected later in 2026.
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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 6:11 PM.