IO Interactive snuck out some disappointing news to end the year. The studio’s new James Bond game, 007 First Light, has been delayed, taking over Grand Theft Auto 6’s original release slot on the 2026 calendar.
In an update shared this week, IO Interactive confirmed that 007 First Light will no longer release in March like originally planned. Now, the game will launch on May 27th 2026. If that date rings a bell, then there is good reason, as Grand Theft Auto 6 was originally scheduled to release on May 26th, before being delayed to November next year.
In its statement, IO Interactive said: “007 First Light is our most ambitious project to date and the team has been fully focused on delivering an unforgettable James Bond experience”, adding that the delay will “ensure the experience meets the level of quality” that fans deserve on day one.
007 First Light has been pitched in the first game in an on-going series, all starring IOI’s own version of James Bond, not tied to any previous films, games or novels. We will see more of the game in early 2026 as IO ramps up the marketing ahead of release.
KitGuru Says: Fortunately, the delay is quite short, giving IO Interactive roughly eight extra weeks to polish up the game. Are you looking forward to 007: First Light?
