- 007 First Light is not an open-world game.
- IO Interactive has instead gone with a wide-linear approach for the James Bond title.
- First Light will give players a ton of freedom to complete missions in different ways.
With the highly anticipated release of 007 First Light being just around the corner, fans of the James Bond franchise and IO Interactive have one question on their mind: Is 007 First Light open world? If you find yourself wondering the same, come with us as we break down the answer.
Does 007 First Light Have an Open World?
No, 007 First Light is not an open-world game. This means you will not find a giant map with towers to climb or icons to clear like you would in an Assassin’s Creed title. IO Interactive has described the game as narrative action-adventure focused on a younger, rougher-around-the-edges James Bond. Instead of a single open world, the game will utilize a mission-based structure that prioritizes cinematic storytelling.
While 007 First Light is not open world in the traditional sense like GTA 6, it is not a strictly linear hallway shooter title either. The game draws from the DNA of IO Interactive’s Hitman games, with the developers using what can be called a wide-linear design. The title will take players through cinematic, scripted moments like high-speed car chases to keep the story moving.
Major missions in the game will give players large, dense playgrounds to experiment in. In areas like this, how you complete a mission comes down to you. Additionally, you can also wander neutral zones freely, eavesdrop on NPCs, or even bluff your way into restricted areas using Bond’s charm.
007 First Light, not being an open world, might be disappointing for players. However, the decision is a creative choice that allows the developers to preserve the James Bond feel. The core focus of missions on curated locations across the globe feels almost like a scene from iconic Bond movies. Furthermore, even without an open world, the title also offers a ton of freedom in its levels, with elements like Q-gadgets, combat, and choice of navigating a level.
You might not get to drive across an entire country as James Bond in 007 First Light. However, the title will allow you to step into the shoes of the famous spy when it launches on May 27, 2026.
How do you feel about IO Interactive going with a wide-linear approach for 007 First Light? Tell us in the comments below!
Ajith Kumar
