IO Interactive, the acclaimed developer behind the esteemed Hitman franchise, has officially delayed the release of its highly anticipated James Bond title, 007 First Light.
The announcement was made through the company’s social media channels, confirming that the game is now scheduled to launch on May 27, 2026—pushing it back by two months from its originally planned March 27 date. 007 First Light represents IO Interactive’s most ambitious project to date, bringing the legendary British spy to a new generation of gamers.
This latest title will mark James Bond’s return to the world of interactive entertainment, and will be available across multiple platforms, including the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2. In a statement shared by IO Interactive CEO Hakan Arbak, he emphasized the studio’s dedication to quality.
"007 First Light is the most ambitious undertaking our team has ever embarked on.
We’re committed to delivering a gaming experience that lives up to our players’ expectations from day one, and this additional time provides us the opportunity to further enhance and refine the title," Arbak said.
He confirmed that development is progressing well, noting that the game is currently playable from start to finish, and that the delay will enable the team to polish every facet of the experience. The delay follows the game’s recent spotlight at The Game Awards 2025, where an exciting new trailer was debuted.
This showcase introduced audiences to Bawma, a character brought to life by renowned musician and actor Lenny Kravitz, who joins the game’s cast in a significant role. With a legacy of immersive stealth-action gameplay, IO Interactive’s expertise from the Hitman series has set a high bar for 007 First Light.
Fans and industry watchers alike have been eager to see how the studio will reinterpret the world of James Bond for modern consoles. While some may be disappointed by the delayed release, IO Interactive’s transparent communication and commitment to delivering a polished experience on platforms like Nintendo Switch 2 and others reassure players of their dedication.
With the new date set for May 27, 2026, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a defining chapter in the James Bond gaming legacy. Stay tuned for more news and updates on 007 First Light, including exclusive interviews, gameplay details, and platform announcements as the launch date approaches.
The announcement was made through the company’s social media channels, confirming that the game is now scheduled to launch on May 27, 2026—pushing it back by two months from its originally planned March 27 date. 007 First Light represents IO Interactive’s most ambitious project to date, bringing the legendary British spy to a new generation of gamers.
This latest title will mark James Bond’s return to the world of interactive entertainment, and will be available across multiple platforms, including the forthcoming Nintendo Switch 2. In a statement shared by IO Interactive CEO Hakan Arbak, he emphasized the studio’s dedication to quality.
"007 First Light is the most ambitious undertaking our team has ever embarked on.
We’re committed to delivering a gaming experience that lives up to our players’ expectations from day one, and this additional time provides us the opportunity to further enhance and refine the title," Arbak said.
He confirmed that development is progressing well, noting that the game is currently playable from start to finish, and that the delay will enable the team to polish every facet of the experience. The delay follows the game’s recent spotlight at The Game Awards 2025, where an exciting new trailer was debuted.
This showcase introduced audiences to Bawma, a character brought to life by renowned musician and actor Lenny Kravitz, who joins the game’s cast in a significant role. With a legacy of immersive stealth-action gameplay, IO Interactive’s expertise from the Hitman series has set a high bar for 007 First Light.
Fans and industry watchers alike have been eager to see how the studio will reinterpret the world of James Bond for modern consoles. While some may be disappointed by the delayed release, IO Interactive’s transparent communication and commitment to delivering a polished experience on platforms like Nintendo Switch 2 and others reassure players of their dedication.
With the new date set for May 27, 2026, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a defining chapter in the James Bond gaming legacy. Stay tuned for more news and updates on 007 First Light, including exclusive interviews, gameplay details, and platform announcements as the launch date approaches.
