The internet was melting down when news broke that the studio behind Hitman, IO Interactive, is unveiling a new James Bond project. The news was very much welcomed. Fans felt there could be no better pairing than James Bond and IO Interactive.
Over the years, IOs have made a name for themselves by constantly updating the Hitman franchise and reviving the stealth genre. The studio has reached heights behind Hitman.
The World of Assassination trilogy features three of the best AAA games of the last decade and emphasizes the quality the studio seeks with each release. Some would even argue that Hitman is almost playing like a James Bond style game with the hidden missions around the globe.
With IO really getting a chance to stretch their creative muscles beyond Hitman, here are a few things fans would love to see in the new James Bond game.
IO Interactive’s James Bond Wish List: 5 things players would like to see in the game
# 1 – The new James Bond experience
Film links like GoldenEye on the N64 don’t want any explanation for their image status in the video game industry. James Bond games have maintained a widespread run in the industry. Many games have received high praise, such as the cult classic Nightfire and the aforementioned GoldenEye.
Recently, James Bond 007: Bloodstone attempted to recreate an Uncharted-like action romp with moderate success. IO should not rely on the movies or games and create a completely new Bond experience.
An original story that doesn’t tie into a previous movie or games, and with a new character model would be perfect.
# 2 – Third person view
Some of the best games featuring the James Bond brand have had a first-person look. This may need to change as there is something more fun in the way the Glacier Engine and Hitman feel in a third – person view.
So far, there is no proof that the Bond game will use the brilliant Glacier Engine. A third-person view feels just right for Bond and would be a great way to experience the game and its world.
Hitman’s formula has been successful so far because players have a better visual understanding and spatial awareness of their environment. The environment provides players with intuitive solutions to fulfill their complex plans.
# 3-The Hitman sandbox
Hitman really feels like a Bond game, all a character needs is a tuxedo and a head full of hair. If James Bond were a silent activist, his story would look very much like Hitman.
IO has to use some of the Hitman aspects but create a unique identity for Bond. One aspect the Bond game should borrow is the elegant approach in Hitman’s sandbox style.
Each level in Hitman is absolutely massive and full of opportunities. It often requires multiplayer to see everything available. James Bond levels should feel like huge sandboxes where the player can do as they please.
A serial game would be okay, but it feels like a missed opportunity if James Bond ends up being a dismissal of Uncharted.
# 4 – Freedom of approach
Players must be freed free and go near each level as they see fit. They would be allowed to blast a hole through the wall and drop guns in sight, or take the stealth way and silently shoot targets.
Hitman has, on purpose, instigated a strong fight to encourage players not to adopt fireworks and opt for a more aggressive approach. James Bond, on the other hand, is usually the kind of sound with a bull underdog in a china shop.
A player should also be allowed to craft their own James Bond, working in the shadows. This could offer the player some group.
On the approach theme, this new Bond game must have some destructive environments. Nothing screams at James Bond as a fit Brit leaving a lump of debris and ashes in his wake.
# 5 – Vehicle interaction
It would not have been a James Bond game without so many vehicle guards and a fast car chase. Hitman, for the most part, has always been an established link.
James Bond needs a slightly more maverick tone and hits players with over-the-top lines. While action pieces aren’t exactly where IOs make their money, perhaps, it’s time for the studio to make the leap and lead in some good destruction and war.
James Bond’s identity is deceived by Aston Martin. It would be a shame not to use part of his identity that is appropriate for a play.
Published January 26, 2021, 17:48 IST