Are You Ready For 007 First Light?
GoldenEye 007 was revolutionary for console first-person shooters. With its addictive split-screen multiplayer, slick mission-based structure, and innovative gameplay mechanics, it broke the mold for movie tie-ins and elevated James Bond as a video game star. Unfortunately, 28 years later, gamers still view it as the MI6 agent’s finest adventure. 007 First Light takes a different approach, letting you explore Bond’s origins and his journey to becoming the charming super spy. Will this be the reinvention Bond has long needed, or another attempt that falls short of GoldenEye’s legacy?
Missing the Target
For years, Bond titles have missed the mark. Leaping from film tie-ins to original stories, the identity of the franchise was nonexistent. With each release, games jumped from cinematic experiences, stealth, and high-action shooters, with none capturing the notion of being Britain’s suarvest spy. IO Interact hits the reset button, starting from the beginning to allow players to engage with a new adventure with a new Bond, not just aim to replicate the on-screen version.
A Man of Many Talents
The character is perfect for IO Interactive. Globe-trotting espionage, mixed with deception, gadgets and tense, stealth sequences are what the developers perfected with their previous titles and First Light looks to develop on this. Adding in a healthy portion of cinematic action and a strong focus on narrative, this aims to embody every aspect of being a spy.
Weapon of Choice
In Hitman, choice was central to the experience and First Light looks to continue the trend, although in a less expansive manner. From bluffing to get past guards to using darts, you have plenty of options at your disposal in order to complete your objective. Environmental interactivity is what seems the most impressive. Throwing hands with enemies can lead them to crash into your surroundings; however, they bend and break as you pummel each other next to them. This gives life to the world, creating unique moments in a more structured sequence.
A Blockbuster
From car chases to shootouts, the game takes you on a journey with missions showing variety that captures the real-life counterpart perfectly. The cinematic flair is important with a film based on a franchise and this seems to nail that with its strong use of the iconic score, stellar voice acting and slick, Hollywood-style direction. If this continues throughout the entire experience, it could be the definitive Bond adventure.
Another Hit, Man
There are a number of incredible aspects of Hitman and we can only hope that many of these bleed into First Light. The world is alive with people living their own lives and many events happening at once. If this open philosophy feeds into this adventure, this would not only add replay value, but it would also make you feel like a spy, something which is vital for the experience. While this is something that should be implemented, the awkwardness of Agent 47’s movement definitely needs to be addressed. Bond is about style and elegance, so he needs to move with confidence, not bumble around like Johnny English.
A Licence to Succeed
007 First Light looks set to be the best Bond game since GoldenEye 007. With its slick approach to combat and a strong cinematic focus, this latest outing puts you firmly in the polished shoes of MI6’s most iconic agent. Blending stealth, action, and player choice, will it capture the fantasy of being Bond better than anything we’ve seen in years? Be sure to head back over for our full review when it launches on May 27th.
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