007 First Light

Credit: IO

The early access period for 007 First Light isn't quite as early as some titles. In fact, it's just 24 hours. However, early is early, and the way to get started on May 26 rather than May 27 is pretty simple.

A simple digital pre-order of the Deluxe Edition on PS5, Xbox Series X/S or PC will do the trick. Here are the details and everything you'll get if you go the pre-order route.

• Game: 007 First Light (IO Interactive)
• Release Date: May 27, 2026 (11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT)
• Early Access: May 26, 2026 (24 hours early)
• Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC (Switch 2 version later in 2026)
• Standard Price: $69.99
• Early Access Requirement: Digital pre-order only

How Do You Play 007 First Light Early?

The path to early access is the same across every digital storefront: pre-order the game and your copy unlocks on May 26 instead of May 27. Thankfully, there's no separate "Ultimate" tier gatekeeping the head start, which is unusual for a modern release.

The key detail is that early access is tied to digital pre-orders specifically.

Pre-purchase on the PlayStation Store, Xbox, Steam, or Epic Games Store and you're in. Physical disc buyers don't get the official 24-hour window, though a local store running an early launch-day pickup could net you a few hours regardless.

What Comes With the Free Deluxe Upgrade?

Here's the part that makes the standard pre-order the smart play: digital pre-orders get the Deluxe Edition content for free, so you're not paying the higher $79.99 tier to play early.

The upgrade is mostly cosmetic but tailored for Bond fans — which is cool. It’s especially acceptable because it’s been well communicated.

The edition includes four classic-inspired outfits (Day of the Dead, Desert Explorer, Silent Anchor, Gentleman Operator), the Gleaming Pack of four gadget skins for the lighter, earphones, dart gun and pen, and the unique Agent's Mark weapon skin.

It's the same approach we saw with Forza Horizon 6's early access — pre-order perks doubling as the head-start key.

Is the Early Access Worth Pre-Ordering For?

If you were already planning to buy 007 First Light, the answer is easy. You get a day's head start and a free content upgrade at the standard price, with no downside beyond committing early.

If you're on the fence about IO Interactive's Bond origin story, 24 hours isn't a dramatic window — this isn't a seven-day Ultimate Edition runway. But the free Deluxe content sweetens the standard pre-order enough that waiting offers no real advantage.