Playing 007: First Light makes me wonder if it's actually possible to nail James Bond - but IOI has made a cracking attempt

Key Points:

• 007: First Light by IO Interactive is a linear, old-school third-person stealth-action game, differing significantly from the open-ended, sandbox style of the Hitman series.
• The game emphasizes forward momentum, spectacle, and accessibility for a broad audience, with a focus on classic Bond themes like espionage, combat training, and high-stakes missions.
• Gameplay features include a mix of stealth mechanics using a special watch for distractions, a "license to kill" combat system, and a blend of melee and gunplay with a rock-paper-scissors combat style.
• The narrative centers on a young James Bond's early career, aiming to create a relatable character progression rather than the hardened agent of later films, though some supporting characters and story elements feel less compelling.
• While the game captures many cinematic and aesthetic aspects of the Bond franchise, it risks feeling more like a tribute than a confident new entry, but promises high production values and engaging action sequences.