Forget GTA 6, AAA Alternative Fills Its Original Release Slot

We all know what it feels like to have some of our most anticipated games hit with a major delay and none of us know that better than Grand Theft Auto VI fans.

Originally set to release in fall 2025 before being delayed until 26 May and finally 19 November 2026, Grand Theft Auto VI is forever just out of reach.

However, another recent delay could mean that one of GTA VI’s original release slots has been filled with another highly anticipated AAA launch.

Originally set to launch in March, developer IO Interactive recently announced that 007: First Light would be delayed until 27 May 2026.

The team behind the Hitman franchise announced the delay just last week in a statement released to social media.

“The game is progressing well and is fully playable from beginning to end, so these additional two months will allow us to further polish and refine the experience, ensuring we deliver the strongest possible version at launch,” the statement read.

“We’re confident this sets 007: First Light up for long-term success, and we sincerely appreciate the patience and continued support we’ve received ever since we revealed the game.

“We look forward to sharing more updates regarding 007: First Light in early 2026.”

As the studio’s most “ambitious project to date”, it makes sense that it wants to strive for perfection and after all, a two-month delay is nothing too alarming.

Set in the James Bond universe, 007: First Light will follow a younger James Bond as a recruit in MI6’s training programme.

As such, players will get to explore how the infamous spy became the man we know and love.

IO Interactive

Jason Who? We Have James.

“Follow James Bond as a young, resourceful and sometimes reckless recruit in MI6's training program, and discover an origin story of the world’s most famous spy,” the official synopsis reads.

“After a heroic act, young Naval air crewman James Bond is offered to join the newly revived Double 0 program.

“But when a mission to stop a rogue agent ends in tragedy, he must join forces with his reluctant mentor Greenway to expose a deep conspiracy and stop a looming coup at the heart of the State."

The “younger and more reckless” James Bond will be played by actor Patrick Gibson who is best known for his roles in Dexter: Original Sin and The OA.

Gibson will be joined by Lenny Kravitz who will be taking on the role of the major antagonist Bawma, as was revealed during this year’s The Game Awards.

With its May 2026 delay, it is also worth noting that 007: First Light will now fill the original release slot for Grand Theft Auto VI and I don’t know about you, but it is a pretty good replacement.