007 First Light Second-Take Preview: 007's Latest Feels like the Fresh Start that Bond Fans Deserve

The speaker expresses disappointment with the conclusion of the Daniel Craig Bond films, despite considering Craig the best actor in the role. While "Casino Royale" and "Skyfall" were excellent, "Quantum of Solace" was underdeveloped, "Spectre" felt like a parody, and "No Time To Die" was too long and bleak for a rewatch. However, a recent three-hour hands-on with "007 First Light" from IO Interactive in Shanghai suggests a fresh start for Bond fans. With no new Bond movie expected for at least two more years, this game's release is perfectly timed to fill the void. The last Bond game, "007 Legends" in 2012, was dreadful, making the wait for a good one even longer. IO Interactive, known for its "Hitman" series, brings expertise in stealth and subterfuge, which is well-suited for 007. The game demonstrates a deep respect for Ian Fleming's source material, incorporating details like Bond's scar from the first novel, never before seen in films. It also shows restraint, using Monty Norman's iconic theme sparingly to punctuate major stunts. The game builds Bond's world meticulously. The Kensington mission, for instance, starts with 007 returning to his apartment, revealing subtle character details like an unfinished Hangman game, manuals on nautical knots, an ornithology book, and a photo of his parents. This level of character development is unprecedented in previous Bond games. "007 First Light" serves as an origin story for the youngest Bond, making familiar tropes feel fresh. Players experience Bond's first kill, his initial charm offensive at a private party, and his accidental sip from a poisoned glass, leading to his first interrogation. Patrick Gibson's performance captures youthful confidence but lacks the wisdom of experience. While generally positive, the speaker notes some issues, such as the melee combat feeling loose and clumsy against multiple foes. Additionally, the Q-watch gadgets require frequent manual recharging, which feels "video gamey" and detracts from the cutting-edge feel of Bond's tools. Despite these minor flaws, the game is highly anticipated. "007 First Light" is set to release on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series XS on May 27th, with a Switch 2 version later in the year. The speaker concludes that it promises to be a smooth experience for long-waiting Bond game fans.