IO Interactive Lays Out Bold Future Plans: New Fantasy RPG, 007: First Light, Hitman Co-op, and More

Credit: IO Interactive

IO Interactive CEO Hakan Abrak recently sat down with GameSpot to discuss a range of topics—from the studio’s original fantasy RPG and the highly anticipated 007: First Light to upcoming expansions for the Hitman franchise, including a new co-op mode. Here's what we got:

A New Direction: IOI’s Fantasy-Themed Online RPG

Credit: Project fantasy

One of the most notable revelations was confirmation that IO Interactive is working on its sixth original IP: an online fantasy RPG. While the project has been quietly in development, Abrak formally introduced it during the interview, saying the studio is “building a new world” that aims to entertain and evolve over many years.

The project is still under wraps, with no release window or gameplay specifics revealed, but Abrak emphasized that it represents a creative leap for the studio.

007: First Light – Not Just Another Bond Game

credit: 007: First Light

The interview also shed light on 007: First Light, IOI’s upcoming James Bond title. Abrak clarified that the game will not be a retelling or adaptation of a film but rather an original story focused on a younger Bond. The goal is to create something “dynamic and youthful” that players can feel attached to—essentially a Bond origin story built from the ground up.

Abrak explained that, while both Hitman and Bond share elements like globe-trotting and espionage, they’re fundamentally different in tone and structure. Bond is portrayed as a heroic personality with charm and wit, whereas Hitman’s Agent 47 is more of a blank-slate anti-hero. Gameplay will reflect that, with Bond featuring more cinematic storytelling, choreographed set pieces, seamless transitions between melee and ranged combat, and a wider use of gadgets.

“There’s definitely a freedom of approach,” Abrak noted, “but Bond is more structured—built to deliver those over-the-top, aspirational spy moments.”

Hitman: World of Assassination Expands With Co-op and iOS Version

Credit: HITMAN World of Assassination

IO Interactive isn’t leaving its flagship franchise behind. Abrak revealed that a co-op mode is in development for Hitman: World of Assassination, something the studio has been experimenting with for a long time. Although still in early stages, the idea is to let players experience the series' sandbox-style gameplay together, which could lead to both creative strategies and hilarious chaos.

He added that the co-op mode could make Hitman more approachable for new players, especially when learning the game from a more experienced friend.

Additionally, the studio announced that Hitman: World of Assassination will soon be available on iOS, extending its reach to mobile platforms and further supporting its long-term vision for the franchise.

Earlier this month, the game introduced Le Chiffre, the iconic villain from Casino Royale, as a new Elusive Target in the game. Even better? He’s voiced and modeled by Mads Mikkelsen himself, reprising his chilling role from the 2006 film.

Shared DNA and Long-Term Vision

When asked about the longevity of 007: First Light, Abrak didn’t confirm specific post-launch plans but hinted at IOI’s ambition to apply its "single-player as a service" model to Bond as well. Drawing from their experience with ongoing Hitman updates, the studio hopes to expand Bond’s world over time, potentially introducing new missions, challenges, and evolving gameplay elements.

He also discussed the creative freedom IOI received when taking on the Bond IP. Rather than using an existing actor like Daniel Craig or Sean Connery, the team opted to create their own version of Bond, aiming for something that players could connect with personally.

With multiple projects in development and a strong roadmap ahead, IOI is positioning itself as more than just the “Hitman studio.” The coming years could mark a major evolution in the company’s legacy.