A groundbreaking project is set to redefine the intersection of literature and gaming. Iranian actress and director Zar Amir Ebrahimi, known for her work in "Holy Spider" and "Tatami," will portray Lady Macbeth in a new interactive video game titled "Lili." This innovative production is being developed by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in partnership with New York-based indie studio iNK Stories. Alambic Production, based in Paris, will co-produce the game, marking the RSC's maiden venture into the world of video games. The narrative transports Shakespeare's classic themes of ambition, compromise, and tyranny to modern-day Iran, creating an immersive experience that blends live-action cinema with interactive gameplay.

The setting of "Lili" is a stylized, neo-noir version of contemporary Iran, where surveillance and authoritarian control are pervasive aspects of daily life. In this adaptation, players will assume the role of Lili, formerly known as Lady Macbeth, navigating a complex web of choices that will determine her fate. The witches from the original play are reimagined as hackers, using cyber tools and surveillance cameras to infiltrate the digital realm. This unique approach allows players to fully immerse themselves in a world where every decision carries significant weight.

Emma Smith, a respected Shakespeare scholar and RSC Board member, highlighted the game's significance. She noted that "Lili" explores political ambition and personal sacrifice under oppressive regimes, transporting these timeless themes to present-day Iran. Smith emphasized that the game remains true to Shakespeare's essence while offering a fresh perspective. RSC co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey echoed this sentiment, describing gaming as a medium that invites players to explore worlds and stories in a deeply personal yet communal way. By centering the narrative on Lady Macbeth, the game challenges traditional views on gender, identity, and power.

Zar Amir Ebrahimi's involvement brings a wealth of talent to the project. Her recent accolades include winning Best Actress at Cannes in 2022 for "Holy Spider" and stepping behind the camera in 2023 for "Tatami," where she co-directed with Israeli filmmaker Guy Nattiv. Meanwhile, iNK Stories has garnered acclaim for its award-winning game "1979 Revolution: Black Friday," which offers players a glimpse into Iran during the revolution. With "Lili" currently in development and scheduled for release later this year across various platforms, audiences can anticipate an unprecedented fusion of Shakespearean drama and modern gaming technology.

The collaboration between the RSC and iNK Stories promises an engaging and thought-provoking experience. By integrating Shakespeare's profound exploration of human nature with the dynamic possibilities of interactive storytelling, "Lili" sets the stage for a new era in both gaming and literary adaptation. Players will not only witness but actively participate in a narrative that challenges and transforms our understanding of classic literature in the digital age.