A duo of lead developers from IO Interactive have responded to critiques questioning whether their upcoming game 007 First Light is merely a “reskin” of the studio’s previous Hitman titles. The gameplay previews for 007 First Light showcase influences from various franchises, yet some skeptics have suggested that IO’s rendition of James Bond resembles Agent 47 dressed in a tuxedo.

IO Interactive initially announced Project 007 in 2020, which thrilled James Bond fans who had long been eager for a new game adaptation since the lackluster 007 Legends released by Activision in 2012. Given IO Interactive’s reputation for developing the beloved Hitman franchise, expectations for a fresh take on the James Bond universe ran high. With Project 007 now unveiled as 007 First Light, early reactions have been predominately favorable.

Developers Outline Reasons Against Reskinning

Many detractors have hastily labeled 007 First Light as a potential rip-off of the Hitman series, considering similarities in system mechanics such as disguises, stealth tactics, and sandbox-style gameplay. However, franchise art director Rasmus Poulsen emphasized in an interview with The Thumb Wars that they “can’t simply reskin a Hitman game and call it Bond,” highlighting that the development team never even contemplated the idea. He mentioned that the goal with 007 First Light was to achieve “width” in the game that they had not explored before, alongside a “creative approach” tailored specifically for Bond.

Senior licensing producer Theuns Smit supported Poulsen’s claims during an interview with GamesRadar+, noting that IO Interactive has significantly grown its team since the game’s initial announcement. This expansion has brought in new talent with “fresh eyes” and “expertise,” proving critical for evolving 007 First Light beyond the fundamentals established in the Hitman games. Although remnants of IO’s earlier works are evident in 007 First Light’s stealth mechanics and world interactivity, the overarching design and creative strategy differ significantly.

Another innovative aspect of 007 First Light is its complete vehicle gameplay, a feature absent in previous projects from IO Interactive. While essential elements from Hitman—like social manipulation and engaging environments—are still present, the developers have also included enhanced weapon handling, cinematic sequences, and a stronger narrative focus, which diverges from the episodic missions typical of Agent 47’s adventures.