Master the Licence to Kill system, parry enemy attacks, and disable security cameras in IO Interactive's James Bond origin story.
This guide applies to the launch version of the game (App Ver. 1.0.0) on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Later updates can adjust battery charge rates or enemy detection ranges.
Quick Summary
- Rules of Engagement: You cannot draw your weapon unless an enemy aims a gun at you or you enter a high-security area.
- Defensive Combat: Parry standard attacks on a yellow glint. Dodge unblockable attacks on a red glint.
- Active Scanner: Hold L1 (PlayStation), LB (Xbox), or Alt (PC) to run the Q-Lens and spot guards, cameras, or clothing items.
- Stealth Limits: Wear hats and uniforms to bypass security. Avoid Watchers, marked with white dots, because they spot you instantly.
- Neutralize Radios: Punch or shoot guards who have yellow antenna icons above their heads to stop reinforcements.
The Licence to Kill System
You cannot draw your weapon at will. In 007 First Light, James Bond must follow strict rules of engagement. The game locks your firearm, the Q Pistol, under standard conditions. You can only draw and fire when enemies threaten you with lethal force or when you step into restricted zones.
Watch the top of your screen. A red "Licence to Kill" banner appears when the game permits lethal weapons. You holster the pistol when the threat ends and the screen displays "Situation Contained." Rely on stealth and hand-to-hand combat when the banner is absent.
Combat Mechanics
Fights in 007 First Light require deliberate timing. Button mashing locks you into animations, leaving you open to counterattacks. Watch your targets for visual indicators before you strike.
Parries and Counters
Standard enemy strikes flash a yellow glint. Press the parry button (Circle on PlayStation, B on Xbox, or Q on PC) when the glint reaches full brightness. A parry staggers the attacker. You can follow a parry with a quick takedown by pressing the attack buttons together (Square + X on PlayStation) or grab the staggered guard with the trigger buttons (R2 or RT) to slam them into walls.
Dodging
Unblockable attacks flash a red glint. You cannot parry these. Press the dodge/sidestep input with a direction to slide away from danger; the dodge is tied to the parry button combined with a directional input (so Circle + direction on PlayStation, B + direction on Xbox, Q + a movement key on PC). Check your in-game control settings to confirm, since bindings can vary. Dodging also helps you relocate when multiple guards surround you.
Disarming Enemies
When you hold a firearm, aim for the hand of an armed guard. A clean hand shot knocks the gun into the air. You can catch the weapon mid-flight to continue firing. You can also target a guard's leg to force a stumble, then sprint forward to trigger a close-range disarming takedown.
Stealth and Gadget Systems
Espionage requires preparation. Use your gadgets to gather intelligence before entering hostile rooms.
Using the Q-Lens
Your main scanner is the Q-Lens. Hold L1 (PlayStation), LB (Xbox), or Alt (PC) to view the room in wireframe. The Q-Lens outlines guards, highlights security cameras, and exposes documents or keys hidden in pockets. You must keep the Q-Lens active to target objects with your watch gadgets.
Managing the Q-Watch
The Q-Watch runs on chemical and electrical battery charges. Keep an eye on your resource meters at the bottom of the screen. You can hack security cameras to disable them, trigger fire alarms to distract guards, or remotely trigger electrical equipment to create distractions. Recharge the two resources differently: refill the battery by holding the interact prompt on powered electrical devices marked with a blue battery icon (visible while the Q-Lens is active), and top up chemicals by collecting pickups scattered around each level. Use Focus mode (slow-motion), powered by your Instinct meter, to line up precise shots and takedowns when you are outnumbered.
Disguises and Watchers
You can steal hats and uniforms to walk through low-security areas. Watch out for Watchers, who have white dots over their heads. Watchers recognize you immediately and sound the alarm. Avoid their sightlines or neutralize them from behind before you wear a disguise.
General Espionage Tips
Success in missions like the Iceland prologue or the Webb Industries levels relies on stealth and quick decisions.
| Situation | Correct Action | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Radio Icon | Attack the guard with a strike or a leg shot. | Stops the guard from calling reinforcements. |
| Guarded Doorways | Scan for vents or open windows with your Q-Lens. | Reveals alternative routes to bypass checkpoints. |
| Multiple Guards | Focus your damage on one target. | Reduces enemy numbers and limits incoming fire. |
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Why cannot I draw my gun?
The game restricts gun usage. You can only draw the Q Pistol when the red "Licence to Kill" banner appears. You must use stealth and hand-to-hand combat outside of these moments.
How do I recharge my Q-Watch?
The Q-Watch uses two separate resources: electrical battery and chemicals. Recharge the battery by holding the interact prompt on powered electrical devices marked with a blue battery icon while the Q-Lens is active. Replenish chemicals by collecting the pickups placed around each level.
How do I deal with Watchers?
Watchers bypass your disguise. Sneak behind them for a silent takedown, or use the laser on your Q-Watch to distract them while you slip past.
Can I play the entire game without killing anyone?
You can complete most missions using non-lethal strikes and sleep darts. A few story encounters force combat, but you can choose silent paths for the majority of the campaign.
Need an Infiltration Plan?
If you need help sneaking through a specific chapter or choosing the best gadgets for your playstyle, ask ApolloTrail for an infiltration strategy. Describe your current mission and equipment to receive tailored agent advice.