IO Interactive Unveils Project 007: A Young Bond Trilogy
IO Interactive, renowned for the Hitman series, is developing Project 007, a new James Bond game. This isn't just a single title; CEO Hakan Abrak envisions it as the launch of a trilogy, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic spy for a new generation of gamers.
A Fresh Take on 007
Project 007 will introduce players to a younger James Bond, before he became the legendary double-O agent. This original story, confirmed by Abrak in an interview with IGN, will be entirely separate from the established film canon. He also teased to Edge Magazine in 2023 that the tone will lean closer to Daniel Craig's portrayal than Roger Moore's.
"What's exciting is creating an original story," Abrak stated, emphasizing the opportunity to craft a young Bond for gamers to connect with and watch grow. He highlighted IO Interactive's two-decade preparation for this project, leveraging their expertise in immersive, stealth-driven gameplay from the Hitman franchise. However, Abrak acknowledged the unique challenge of working with an established IP like James Bond, aiming to create a lasting impact on the gaming world.
The Game's Details: Story, Gameplay, and Release
While specifics remain under wraps, the official website confirms an original Bond story where players earn their 00 status. Abrak's comments to Edge Magazine suggest a more structured experience compared to Hitman's open-ended gameplay, describing it as "the ultimate spycraft fantasy," hinting at gadgets and a departure from Agent 47's lethal missions. Job listings from IO Interactive, as reported by PlayStation Universe, suggest a third-person action game with "sandbox storytelling" and advanced AI.
A release date remains unannounced, but Abrak expressed his excitement to share more details soon. The anticipation is high, with the potential for Project 007 to establish a new benchmark for James Bond games.