What is the gameplay style of 007 First Light?

The game offers a blend of silent stealth gameplay, third-person action and cinematic storytelling. The levels allow for different tactical approaches: silent infiltration, armed infiltration or more frontal attacks depending on the player's preferences.

Does the game already feature classic James Bond gadgets?

Yes, the iconic gadgets are present in the game, but their range is deliberately limited to remind players that Bond is still just a recruit at the start of his career.

How long does it take to complete 007 First Light?

A first playthrough lasts around 8 to 10 hours, with strong replayability potential thanks to the different ways of approaching each mission and the tactical choices available.

How does the game portray the character of James Bond?

The game strives to make Bond more human by confronting him with doubts, youthful mistakes and complex relationships with MI6, offering a version of the character that is both credible and endearing.

007 First Light Review: The Alluring Birth of James Bond According to Millenium

Item: 007 First Light
Rating: 8.0
Author: Fabian Lainé

With 007 First Light, IO Interactive kicks off its trilogy dedicated to James Bond with an episode centred on the youth of Her Majesty's agent. Meant to be a standalone prologue, the game seeks to combine stealth, third-person action, and cinematic storytelling, set in a contemporary London with an oppressive atmosphere. The stage is now set, so let's take a closer look at what the Millenium journalist thinks of it.

The gameplay ostensibly bridges the gap between Hitman and an action blockbuster. The levels allow for different approaches - silent infiltration, armed infiltration, or more frontal attacks - with level design clear enough to encourage experimentation. The iconic gadgets are already present, even if their range is deliberately limited to remind us that Bond is still only a "rookie". Movements and cover transitions can sometimes feel a bit stiff, but the variety of situations helps to smooth over these minor flaws.

On the narrative front, 007 First Light strives to make James Bond more human according to Millenium: he faces doubts, youthful mistakes, and maintains a complex relationship with MI6. The staging skilfully alternates between well-written sequences and quieter moments, where the dialogue takes the time to explore the stakes at hand. Although there are a few clichés typical of spy films, the writing brings enough nuance for this early-career Bond to be both credible and endearing.

On the technical side, it does seem that the game makes the most of a perfectly mastered engine. The graphics impress thanks to the richness of the urban environments and the quality of the lighting. However, a few less polished textures and some frame rate drops are a reminder that this isn't a visual powerhouse either. On the other hand, the sound design is a resounding success: an original musical theme that fits well with the Bond universe, convincing voice acting, and a carefully crafted mix between gunfire and city ambiences.

With a playtime of around 8 to 10 hours for a first playthrough, and strong replay value thanks to the different ways of tackling each mission, 007 First Light already lays the groundwork for a promising video game adventure for the famous secret agent. Millenium's word on it!