007 First Light is eagerly awaited, set to release on May 27, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series. Developed by IO Interactive, the game serves as an origin story for Bond, featuring cinematic action, clever infiltration, and the high-quality setpieces that the franchise is celebrated for.
As the release date approaches, here are seven games to check out before 007 First Light hits the shelves.
Note: This article includes subjective views from the writer.
Top 7 games to try before 007 First Light releases
1) Hitman: World of Assassination
Created by IO Interactive, Hitman World of Assassination shares its DNA with First Light. Each mission in Hitman presents a vast, open-ended puzzle prioritizing observation and infiltration, with execution left to the player’s discretion. This involves exploring luxurious settings, eavesdropping, and orchestrating events for the ideal moment.
This game closely mirrors what an IO Interactive Bond experience should feel like and offers a clear glimpse into their design philosophy.
Also read: 007 First Light: Full cast and characters list
2) Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
Uncharted 4 embodies the essence of a non-stop blockbuster film, aligning with the expectations for a Bond game. Players experience car chases, gunfights, stealth, and exotic settings, all seamlessly interconnected to maintain momentum.
Nathan Drake’s globe-trotting adventures in stunning locales closely resemble the Bond fantasy, making its cinematic pacing and mission design a strong reference for 007 First Light.
3) Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain
Metal Gear Solid V stands out for its espionage gameplay. Players scout enemy bases, analyze patrols, and adapt as the situation evolves.
The emphasis on preparation and execution captures the essence of a skilled spy in a challenging environment, a core element of the best Bond narratives. For those yet to experience it, waiting for 007 First Light offers a perfect opportunity.
4) GoldenEye 007
GoldenEye 007 set the benchmark for Bond games on the Nintendo 64, with its objective-based, stealth-focused shooting. IO Interactive’s senior licensing producer, Theuns Smit, praised it as a ‘fantastic game’ in a conversation with Radio Times Gaming.
Revisiting this classic highlights the enduring success of the Bond formula when it balances action with intelligence.
5) James Bond 007: Everything or Nothing
Everything or Nothing is often regarded as the pinnacle of Bond games. Featuring Pierce Brosnan, it plays out like an unfilmed Bond movie, complete with gadgets, vehicle chases, and a narrative that fully embraces the cinematic tone of the Brosnan era. It aligns with the story-driven, high-stakes focus that IO Interactive aims for with 007 First Light.
Bond enthusiasts who haven’t experienced it have an ideal opportunity to do so before the new origin story debuts.
Read more: 007 First Light wishlist milestones: All rewards and how to get
6) Dishonored 2
Dishonored 2 stands out as a top immersive sim game, and 007 First Light appears to draw heavily from this genre. It encourages players to find creative, stealthy, or non-lethal solutions instead of relying on a single approach. This player-driven freedom is what makes spy games truly empowering.
This Bethesda Softworks title excels in this genre and continues to be impressive.
7) Indiana Jones and the Great Circle
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle serves as a recent example of effectively adapting a beloved IP into a game. With a primary first-person perspective, third-person cutscenes, and interactive environments, the game combines curated storytelling with player creativity, offering multiple routes to objectives.
It closely resembles what 007 First Light aspires to achieve. Hollywood tie-in games rarely succeed, but Great Circle proves it can be done.
Check out: 5 things you might have missed from 007 First Light State of Play Gameplay Deep Dive
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Edited by Rishi Pallav
