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Pay attention, 007
I have always been a huge fan of the exploits of the world’s “most famous secret agent” – James Bond. I have many Happy childhood memories of eagerly devouring the pantheon of MGM movies, being captivated by the vehicles, locations, gadgets, music and utterly ridiculous villains that have featured throughout the franchise of iconic films.
Of course, over the years and as my critical eye has blossomed, I have become more comfortable with the fact that Bond films should generally be viewed in the “Bond Filter”. That is, a lot of these movies don’t stand up to other spy movies, or just other films. Truth be told, only a few of the 007 adventures are really excellent movies, (From Russia with love), while some are downright appalling, (Diamonds are forever). But whatever, they are (for the most part) all dear to my heart. I am in a longstanding love affair with the world of 007 …
… Oh, but I don’t like James Bond Jr. You have to draw the line somewhere.
And so naturally I was both shaken and stirred when a new 007 game was suddenly announced out of nowhere. Additionally, in one of the most perfect marriages in video game history, it was revealed that the new title will be developed by Danish studio IO Interactive, which exemplifies stealth gameplay, opulent locations and scary suspense almost reached perfection in excellent Hitman franchise. Following terrible outings like those of 2012 007 Legendsand 2010 is not so bad 007: Bloodstone, it feels like IOI might be one step closer to delivering the best Bond gaming experience fans have received in decades … maybe never?
As this announcement is only a few days old, IOI has yet to disclose the details of Project 007. All we know is that it will be an origin story – and completely original, thus avoiding the events of Ian Fleming’s novel, Casino Royale. According to IOI, Project 007 will see the player “earn (their) 007 status in an all-original story”, without specifying whether the game will feature a recognizable Bond actor, or feature an original avatar that captures the style and essence of the state charming and good-natured – sponsored murderer.
It got me thinking (still a risky mission), how would IOI create an original James Bond that gamers feel an instant affinity for? Which led me to an idea: what if we were allowed to create 007 ourselves? A 007 in all image we choose? Provided the character occupies a recognizable environment in the Bond universe – all the laser watches, casinos, and underground plans for world domination – then why not allow a 007 of our own creation to exist within it? Thought Mass Effect Commander Shepherd, but with fewer Turians and more Shirley Bassey.
While certain behavioral traits, physical abilities and personality quirks should remain for the sake of authenticity, Project 007 could potentially offer players the chance to experiment with Bond, giving them any gender, age, sexuality or ethnicity they desire. While many surly viewers unfortunately remain firmly opposed to seeing Bond portrayed by anyone other than a middle-aged white dude, Project 007 – with its original story and seemingly unrelated to the film franchise – offers a chance to explore far beyond this militant mindset of what James Bond “should” be.
Now it should be clear that oftentimes when new games are announced, fans immediately get their fantastic reservation, often putting pressure on the developers and risking a false narrative of what an upcoming release is. and is not. My intention is not to browbeat IOI that it MUST make Project 007 customizable protagonist, but only to suggest that this would be a perfect opportunity to do so. With Daniel Craig leaving the role after 2021 No time to die and a new actor yet to be chosen, the door is open for Project 007 to experience the Bond universe at will. The timing is perfect.
Personally, I would jump at the chance to play a new Bond adventure as Woman 007. Provided we have the recognizable series tropes – espionage, cool fashions, exotic locations, a hello from Felix Leiter, maybe a bit of megalomania – I’m not remotely precious playing Bond in the exact same physical guise we’ve seen him, time and time again, since the 1960s.
Given IOI’s pedigree, Project 007 seems inclined for greatness. Self-developed and self-published, the studio remains largely free from outside interference – with the exception of producers Bond EON who I hope Trust the instincts of IOI and leave the developer alone. Given the new “blank slate” of the new company, Project 007 offers the perfect opportunity to take Bond out of his comfort zone, giving fans the opportunity to take 007 beyond any world they’ve seen before.
Why not take a chance? After all, you only live twice.
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