IO Interactive released its AAA title 007 First Light on May 26, surprising players with the inclusion of Denuvo DRM. After just two months on the market, the studio has officially removed this protection layer, as tracked by Steam DB.

The official Steam version is now DRM‑free, a welcome change for gamers who cite performance hits and hardware restrictions caused by Denuvo. Benchmark enthusiasts also benefit, since the removal removes constraints on hardware upgrades and system tests.

The decision follows a shock announcement that Denuvo would be present only six days before launch, prompting many pre‑orders to be reconsidered. Recent layoffs and the end of a partnership with Xbox have tightened IO Interactive’s budget, making the monthly fee of $30,000 for the DRM untenable.

Despite the controversy, 007 First Light has earned 89% positive reviews in the last 30 days. With DRM removed, reception may improve further as players enjoy a smoother experience.