James Bond Fans Praise “Phenomenal” Official Daniel Craig Replacement

Published Aug 27, 2026, 6:30 AM EDT Paul Farrelly is a Contributing Writer for Screen Rant’s Gaming section and the founder of GeekGasm.org, a site dedicated to celebrating all things gaming, from triple A blockbusters to weird and wonderful indie hits. Based in Louth, Ireland, Paul has spent years writing about games, pop culture, and tech, turning his lifelong love of gaming into a career that lets him talk (probably too much) about what makes this industry so endlessly fascinating. He’s previously written and collaborated with several entertainment outlets, including LADbible, gaining a wide perspective on how gaming fits into today’s pop culture conversation. His work blends genuine enthusiasm with thoughtful analysis, exploring how design, storytelling, and community have made gaming one of the most creative mediums around. When he’s not glued to a controller or keyboard, Paul’s usually spinning vinyl, plotting his next horror marathon, or debating which Resident Evil entry really reigns supreme. Sign in to your ScreenRant account With Daniel Craig having played everyone's favorite spy for 15 years, it's fair to say that he's a fan favorite amongst an entire generation of cinema goers. But it's now been almost 5 years since Daniel Craig holstered his Walter PPK for the last time and perhaps there's a new Bond in town. With casting for the next James Bond movie officially under way, it won't be long before we see 007 back on our big screens, albeit with a different look. But perhaps we've already gotten the perfect Bond earlier this year? 007 First Light released earlier this year back in May and introduced the gaming community to a brand-new bond. Patrick Gibson lent his voice and his look to a young James Bond and made gaming history. His timing, cadence and signature charm all went into delivering a performance brimming with heart. As far as Daniel Craig replacements go, Patrick Gibson completely nailed the role and the fans on Reddit are in full agreement. Patrick Gibson as James Bond in 007 First Light is pure perfection. The Incumbent James Bond Is A Hit One fan, when speaking about Patrick Gibson's performance, had this to say: Not only did he deliver on nailing Bond's commanding aura and smooth-talking charisma, but also brought so much gravitas of intensity and nuance to the more serious and emotional scenes. I too look forward to see how his Bond grows in future games as he gradually becomes more experienced and skilled like the Bond we see in the OG Fleming novels and Connery/Lazenby/Moore/Dalton/Brosnan/Craig films. While another revealed his brilliantly restrained emotional performance: Gibson and IOI really brought out Bond's emotional side in First Light. From his bewilderment at Operation Knightfall to telling off M near the end of the game. The slight quiver in his voice when he tells M not bring Greenway into this shows the restrained intensity he's trying to rein in. If IOI gets to do their trilogy I feel sorry for the antagonists if they do License to Kill inspired arc, Gibson's Bond only has one game but based on his character he's probably one of the Bonds I want least coming after me for a personal vendetta High praise indeed for the younger James Bond and Patrick Gibson deserves it after such a phenomenal performance. While 007 First Light isn't a perfect game and definitely has some pacing issues, there is no denying how incredible the story and indeed the character performances are throughout the game. Patrick Gibson, along with Lennie James and Noémie Nakai, really brought their A-game to proceedings and helped to craft a believable spy thriller. In fact, none of them would look out of place on a casting list for the next big Bond movie. While many will know Patrick Gibson from his standout performance as a young Dexter morgan in the hit TV series Dexter: Original Sin, it's his turn as the 00 agent that really shows how layered an actor he is. Not only does he nail Bond's cocky, suave side, but he also brings a softer, more emotional note to the young spy as he gets to grips with losing loved ones all in the line of duty for King and Country. While we're all guessing who might play Bond next on the big screen, perhaps we shouldn't rule out Patrick Gibson for the role either. With uncertainty over whether IO Interactive will be involved in the video game franchise going forward, its unclear if Patrick Gibson will reprise his role for future games. However, Amazon would be foolish not to include him in future installments as his performance in 007 First Light was absolutely stellar. As we all know from the movies... James Bond will return! And hopefully that means Patrick Gibson will return too. Never say never again! Systems Released May 27, 2026 ESRB Teen / Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence, In-Game Purchases Developer(s) IO Interactive Publisher(s) IO Interactive Franchise James Bond