IO Interactive has released a 13-minute gameplay video from the opening mission of 007 First Light after footage from the James Bond game leaked online over the weekend. According to reports, one video was removed from YouTube following a copyright claim, but the leak had already spread. In response, the studio chose to publish the first 13 minutes itself, saying these are the mission’s intended opening moments for the game’s launch day.
The move appears aimed at regaining control of the conversation around the game and offering fans an official look at what leaked privately. IO Interactive’s description on YouTube acknowledges that some users accessed the disc early, which led to the spread of the footage. Rather than ignore the situation, the studio opted for transparency and made the footage available publicly.
The newly released video shows the start of 007 First Light and gives players an early glimpse of the game’s presentation, tone, and opening sequence. Because it contains real gameplay, viewers who want to experience the game fresh may prefer to avoid watching it before release.
007 First Light is scheduled to launch on May 27 for PS5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. A Nintendo Switch 2 version is also planned for later in 2026.
The official release of the footage follows a familiar pattern in the games industry, where publishers sometimes respond to leaks by sharing sanctioned material to clarify what was actually intended for public viewing. In this case, IO Interactive’s decision allows fans to see the opening mission in full quality and through the studio’s own channels, rather than through unauthorized clips circulating online.
The game is one of the most closely watched upcoming James Bond projects, and the early footage has only increased attention ahead of launch. With the release date imminent, the official gameplay drop gives audiences a clearer sense of the game’s first impressions while also addressing the leak directly.
