IO Interactive Unveils Project 007: A Young Bond Trilogy in the Making
IO Interactive, renowned for the Hitman series, is developing a new James Bond game, Project 007. This isn't just a single title; the studio aims to launch a full trilogy, introducing a fresh take on 007 for a new generation of players.
A Fresh Perspective on Bond: Project 007's Origin Story
CEO Hakan Abrak revealed in an interview that Project 007 will feature a younger James Bond, before he achieved his iconic 00 status. This original story, unrelated to any previous film portrayals, will allow players to shape their own Bond experience. Abrak emphasized the unique opportunity to craft a Bond story for gamers, a character they can connect with and watch grow.
Building on Hitman's Legacy: Stealth, Immersion, and More
IO Interactive's expertise in creating immersive, stealth-focused gameplay, honed over two decades with the Hitman franchise, will be instrumental in Project 007. However, adapting an established IP like James Bond presents new challenges. Abrak acknowledged the scale of the task, aiming to create a defining James Bond gaming experience that will resonate for years to come, existing alongside the cinematic universe.
Project 007: What We Know So Far
The Story: A 007 Origin
The game will offer a completely original Bond narrative, chronicling his journey to becoming 007. While details are scarce, it's confirmed to be independent of any film adaptations, with a tone closer to Daniel Craig's portrayal than Roger Moore's, as revealed by Abrak in a 2023 Edge Magazine interview.
Gameplay: Spycraft Fantasy
While specific gameplay details remain under wraps, early indications suggest a more structured experience compared to Hitman's open-ended approach. Described as "the ultimate spycraft fantasy," it hints at gadgetry and missions distinct from Agent 47's lethal assignments. Previous job listings suggest a third-person perspective and a focus on sandbox storytelling with advanced AI.
Release Date: Still Under Wraps
A release date hasn't been announced, but IO Interactive remains enthusiastic about the project's progress. While Abrak couldn't offer specifics, he indicated that further information will be revealed soon. The anticipation for this ambitious trilogy is undoubtedly high.
