As players near the early access launch of 007 First Light, available for Deluxe Edition owners, you would think that IO Interactive would enable pre-loads. Unfortunately, player engagement specialist Artjom Schmatkow noted on Reddit that it’s not happening…at least for Steam and Xbox players.
“The earliest point to download the game on Steam and Xbox will be tied to the official release time.” Only PS5 will be able to pre-load the title because “it is mandatory on the platform.” He went on to apologize for the “inconclusive communication” about the same.
As for why Steam and Xbox can’t pre-load, it may be to avoid leaks. Several notable titles like Subnautica 2 and Directive 8020 have been the subject of leaks via the former on PC. For Xbox, Play Anywhere may pose a risk since supported titles (like First Light) are playable on console and PC. Whether this would enable it to be leaked early is unknown, but it’s clear that IO Interactive doesn’t want to take the risk.
It follows physical copies reportedly being in the wild and gameplay emerging from the early missions, which seemingly prompted the studio to release the initial 13 minutes. Regardless, with its worldwide launch on May 27th for Xbox Series X/S, PS5 and PC, players will be able to see everything that 007 First Light has to offer and then some.
Stay tuned for updates, and in the meantime, check out the launch trailer, which teases 009 and his enigmatic plan alongside the mysterious Isola.
