Alongside the reveal of Paddy, extended gameplay footage and the official release date were also unveiled.
Exactly three months ago, IO Interactive—the acclaimed studio best known for the Hitman series—unveiled the very first trailer for their ambitious new project: a James Bond video game. That initial teaser gave fans a quick look at the world of 007: First Light, but one detail stood out immediately. The face of the young James Bond looked strikingly familiar.
For Dexter fans, the realization hit fast: it was none other than Patrick Gibson, our very own “young Dexter Morgan” from the now-canceled Dexter: Original Sin.
While the digital Bond model had a few tweaks—slightly different hair color and eyebrows—the resemblance was unmistakable, especially once paired with Gibson’s voice. Still, the actor remained completely silent due to a strict NDA. Fans had to wait for the official reveal.
And today, that confirmation finally arrived.
During PlayStation’s State of Play showcase, IO Interactive revealed a 25-minute gameplay video of 007: First Light. At the 25:02 mark, Patrick Gibson formally introduced himself as the new James Bond. The game is now set for a March 27, 2026 release date, strategically landing just two months before GTA 6.
The gameplay itself has been met with glowing reactions—cinematic, action-packed, and reminiscent of the beloved Uncharted series. Fans of narrative-driven adventures are in for a treat.
But the timing of Gibson’s reveal comes with bittersweet emotions. His casting as Bond was confirmed less than two weeks after the heartbreaking cancellation of Dexter: Original Sin, where he was set to lead again as young Dexter Morgan. The decision, made by the newly merged Paramount+ and Skydance leadership, disappointed not only fans but also the cast.
The irony is hard to miss. Gibson’s involvement in a massive franchise like James Bond, which is guaranteed to reach millions of gamers worldwide, could have been a golden opportunity for Paramount+. The exposure from 007: First Light would have naturally driven audiences to Dexter: Original Sin, especially if the show had continued into a second season, aligning perfectly with the game’s release window.
Instead, fans are left to wonder what could have been. However, hope isn’t lost. A petition to save Dexter: Original Sin is still gaining traction, and with enough signatures, there’s always a chance the prequel could be revived.
For now, though, Patrick Gibson has officially stepped into one of the most iconic roles in entertainment history. You can watch the full gameplay showcase below—don’t miss his introduction at the 25:02 mark.