IO Interactive’s chief executive, Hakan Abrak, is slated to lead a dedicated session on the James Bond‑themed title 007 First Light during the upcoming Game Republic New Horizons conference. In his dual capacity as both CEO and game director for the project, Abrak will provide an in‑depth look at the creative and technical journey that brought the iconic spy to life in a modern interactive format.
First Light has quickly become IO Interactive’s most successful launch to date, moving more than four million units within just three months of release. The title’s rapid sales momentum has positioned it as a flagship product for the studio, and the company is already planning a Nintendo Switch 2 version slated for release in late 2026. This upcoming console launch is expected to broaden the game’s audience even further, tapping into the portable gaming market while preserving the high‑quality visuals and narrative depth that have defined the title so far.
When asked about his participation at New Horizons, Abrak expressed genuine enthusiasm: “I’m thrilled to be part of Game Republic’s New Horizons event and to share the story behind 007 First Light. This project has been a dream for IO Interactive, and it’s rewarding to see how our vision resonated with players worldwide.” His remarks underscore the personal passion that both he and his team have for the James Bond franchise, a sentiment echoed by many of the developers who spent countless hours fine‑tuning everything from the sleek gadgetry to the cinematic cut‑scenes. Game Republic’s Managing Director, Jamie Sefton, added his own perspective, noting, “Being a massive James Bond fan, it’s an absolute honour to welcome Hakan and the IO Interactive crew to our conference. I’m eager to dive deeper into the brilliant process behind 007 First Light and learn how such a talented team managed to capture the essence of an iconic character while pushing the boundaries of interactive storytelling.” Sefton’s comment highlights the anticipation surrounding the session, as industry insiders and fans alike look forward to gaining insight into the collaborative effort that turned a beloved film legend into a compelling video‑game experience.
Abrak will join a distinguished roster of speakers at New Horizons, which includes legendary figures such as former PlayStation architect Ken Kutaragi, Landfall’s Chief Business Officer Rebecca Lautner, and a panel titled “Hype‑free Assessment of AI in Games.” The AI panel will feature Tommy Thompson, a recognized authority on artificial intelligence in gaming, Duyguy Cakmak from Creative Assembly, and Matthias Siemonsmeier of Splash Damage, promising a robust discussion on the realistic applications and limitations of AI technologies in modern game development. Beyond the main stage, the conference will host a fireside chat in the Investor Zone with Tencent’s Business Development Director Teddy Keefe, providing a platform for dialogue on global market trends and strategic partnerships. Another notable session, “Beyond the Pitch: Securing (and Surviving) Angel Investment,” will feature insights from Nick Button‑Brown of The Game Angels, Tracy McGarrigan of Ansible, and Ian Masters of Flick Games, offering emerging studios practical advice on navigating early‑stage financing. In a recent interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Abrak reflected on the commercial triumph of First Light, noting, “While we haven’t fully recouped all costs due to partnership structures and royalty arrangements, the performance has far exceeded our expectations.
It represents a monumental milestone for us—a record‑breaking success that validates our creative direction and execution.” His candid assessment underscores the financial complexities of licensing a high‑profile property like James Bond, yet also celebrates the tangible results of the studio’s risk‑taking and innovation. IO Interactive continues to maintain an open dialogue with Amazon, the current holder of the James Bond video‑game license. While concrete details remain under discussion, Abrak hinted that future conversations will explore long‑term collaboration opportunities beyond First Light. “We’re in ongoing talks with Amazon about the broader future of the Bond franchise,” he said.
“For now, our focus remains on supporting First Light and its live‑service components, but we anticipate expanding the partnership in the coming years.” This statement signals potential future titles or expansions that could further cement IO Interactive’s role as a steward of the Bond legacy in interactive media. Game Republic New Horizons will take place at Riverside Stadium in Middlesbrough from October 14‑16, 2026.
The three‑day event promises a blend of high‑level industry panels, hands‑on demos, and networking opportunities, with GamesIndustry.biz serving as a media partner. Attendees can expect a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of game development, from narrative design and AI integration to financing models and licensing strategies. Overall, Abrak’s session on 007 First Light offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous process of adapting a cultural icon for a new generation of gamers.
By sharing both the triumphs and challenges faced during development, the CEO aims to inspire fellow creators while reinforcing IO Interactive’s commitment to delivering compelling, high‑quality experiences that honor the legacy of James Bond while pushing the medium forward.