James Bond is back... and YOU can play as him in new 007 game to be released next month

Ed Griffiths

By Ed Griffiths


Published: 18/04/2026

- 13:40

Players will be able to play as a young Bond during his time as a trainee in MI6

James Bond is making his long-awaited comeback to video games next month with 007 First Light, ending a drought of more than 13 years since the iconic spy last appeared in a gaming title.

The new release from IO Interactive, the studio responsible for the acclaimed Hitman series, arrives on May 27 in partnership with Amazon MGM Studios.


Pre-orders are already available for eager fans wanting to step into the shoes of the world's most famous secret agent.

The game's complete opening title sequence was unveiled yesterday, giving players their first proper glimpse at what promises to be a cinematic espionage experience honouring the franchise's celebrated legacy.

Drawing inspiration from Ian Fleming's original novels, 007 First Light presents a fresh take on how the legendary agent earned his famous codename.

Players will be able to play as a young Bond during his time as a trainee in MI6.

The story begins when a naval air crewman named James Bond catches the attention of the intelligence service following an act of heroism, leading to his recruitment into the newly revived Double-0 programme.

When an operation targeting a rogue operative ends in disaster, Bond must team up with his hesitant mentor, Greenway, to uncover a far-reaching conspiracy threatening to destabilise the government itself.

James Bond

James Bond is making his long-awaited comeback to video games next month with 007 First Light

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IO INTERACTIVE

The opening sequence features an original theme song titled "First Light," performed by Lana Del Rey with music composed by David Arnold.

Mr Arnold said: "The music of James Bond has always been a huge part of its identity.

"A title song has to tell us about the world we are about to enter into. It has to intrigue, excite, and beckon us in."

Mr Arnold praised Ms Del Rey for bringing "elegance, atmosphere, and her totally unique character" to the track.

\u200bPatrick Gibson

Patrick Gibson voices the young James Bond in the game

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GETTY

He expressed hope that it would introduce Bond to new audiences.

IO Interactive chief executive Hakan Abrak described watching the two artists collaborate as "a joy," noting the result "feels instantly 'Bond' while still bringing a fresh identity for 007 First Light."

Patrick Gibson, known for his role in Dexter: Original Sin, voices the young James Bond in the game.

Rock legend Lenny Kravitz joins the cast as the villain Bawma, adding another musical star to the project alongside Del Rey.

Daniel Craig as James Bond

The last actor to play James Bond in Film or Games was Daniel Craig, who left the role of James Bond behind in 2019, following No Time to Die

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METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER STUDIOS, COLUMBIA PICTURES, DANJAQ, LLC

The supporting ensemble includes Priyanga Burford as M, Alastair Mackenzie as Q, and Kiera Lester as Miss Moneypenny.

Gemma Chan portrays Selina Tan, while Lennie James takes on the role of John Greenway, Bond's reluctant mentor.

Noemie Nakai rounds out the principal cast as DGSE agent Charlotte Roth.

007 First Light launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 27, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version following later this summer.