IO Interactive is closing its Istanbul studio and cutting staff after an external funding partnership for Project Fantasy collapsed, prompting a shift to focus on core internal projects and owned IP.

The company frames the move as essential to preserving independence and long-term success as a AAA developer and publisher.

IOI says it has regained full ownership of Project Fantasy and will continue developing and funding the game independently.

There is ongoing discussion about a possible sequel to 007: First Light, which could be affected by these corporate changes and face uncertainty.

Hints suggest Agent 47’s next game could come sooner as the focus shifts back to core titles, though no official release timeline is provided.

Readers are invited to share opinions on what they want to see from Project Fantasy in future updates.

Amazon has acquired publishing rights for 007: First Light sequels, potentially altering IOI’s publishing control over future Bond games.

The publishing deal with Amazon for the 007 franchise complicates IOI’s ability to self-publish future Bond titles and may give Amazon more influence over the franchise.

Amazon’s involvement in the James Bond projects could impact IOI’s plans for future 007 titles and publishing arrangements.

Readers are directed to a review of IO Interactive’s recent title 007 First Light to provide context on the studio’s work.

There is currently no release date, platform list, pricing, or preorder details for Project Fantasy.

Industry reports point to broader corporate consolidation and strategic reassessment within Xbox/Microsoft, though no formal confirmations have been issued.