Lili: A Modern, Interactive Take on Macbeth by the Royal Shakespeare Company

Overview:

Prepare for an unprecedented video game adaptation of William Shakespeare's legendary tragedy, Macbeth. Titled "Lili," the game presents Lady Macbeth's perspective through a captivating "screen-life thriller" experience.

Modern Setting and Gameplay:

Lili breathes new life into the classic play. It transports the story to a stylized neo-noir version of Iran, where players inhabit Lady Macbeth's personal devices to witness the unfolding events. The game seamlessly blends live-action footage with interactive elements, offering a unique and immersive exploration of Macbeth's themes and characters.

Collaborative Endeavor:

The Royal Shakespeare Company has partnered with iNK Stories and Alambic Production to bring Lili to fruition. Iranian actress Zar Amir lends her talent and experiences as an Iranian woman to the portrayal of Lady Macbeth, enriching the narrative with authenticity.

Themes and Influences:

Lili delves into pressing societal issues, including "technological domination, the manipulation of information, and institutional violence." The game draws inspiration from Sam Barlow's narrative experiences and features elements reminiscent of both "Her Story" and "Telling Lies."

Innovative Storytelling:

Lili represents a bold and ambitious departure for the Royal Shakespeare Company. By fusing an adapted setting with a novel storytelling approach, the game aims to bridge the gap between traditional theater and modern interactive entertainment.

Release Date and Related Games:

Lili is scheduled for release in late 2025. While anticipation builds, fans of interactive Shakespeare can explore other adaptations such as "Elsinore," "To Be or Not To Be," and even the documentary "Grand Theft Hamlet."

Additional Details:

* Lili uses a stylized, neo-noir aesthetic inspired by modern-day Iran.
* The game incorporates interactive elements, such as manipulating surveillance cameras and accessing computer files.
* Lady Macbeth's personal experiences as an Iranian woman in exile inform the game's themes and narrative.
* Lili is a testament to the Royal Shakespeare Company's innovative approach to bringing Shakespeare to new audiences.