IO Interactive's *007 First Light* marks a 15-year return to James Bond gaming, developed by the studio behind Hitman. This modern retelling follows Bond's training and global missions to thwart a conspiracy, leveraging the studio's Glacier engine. The game supports DirectX 12 and features NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, and path tracing (in a future update). Our review tests performance on Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X, and MSI Claw 8, focusing on how these specs translate to handheld play.

The Glacier engine powers *007 First Light*, enabling features like large NPC crowds and dynamic lighting. While DLSS and FSR upscaling enhance visuals, the absence of Intel XeSS limits options for some users. Performance varies across devices: the Steam Deck handles high settings smoothly, while the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X requires moderate adjustments. These nuances highlight the challenge of optimizing AAA titles for portable hardware, balancing graphical fidelity with battery life and frame rates.

The game's significance lies in IO Interactive's bold reentry into the Bond franchise after a 15-year gap. For fans, it’s a nostalgic yet fresh take on espionage gameplay. However, the reliance on a single engine and lack of cross-play features may limit its appeal. The review underscores that while technical achievements are strong, *007 First Light* must win over players with its storytelling and mission design to justify the long hiatus. Its success could set a precedent for future handheld AAA titles, proving that modern engines can deliver console-like experiences on the go.