After centuries of retellings, Shakespeare’s works are about to get a groundbreaking update. Game developer iNK Stories, in collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), is creating an interactive video game based on The Tragedy of Macbeth. The game, titled Lili, will bring the iconic story to life in a modern setting with a bold, creative twist.
A Neo-Noir Vision of Modern Iran
Set in a stylized, neo-noir version of modern Iran, Lili explores themes of surveillance and authoritarianism in daily life. Players will step into the shoes of Lady Macbeth—renamed Lili—through an interactive format that combines live-action cinema with immersive gameplay.
“You’ll get to make choices that shape Lili’s destiny,” the developers revealed, offering a fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy.
Starring Award-Winning Actress Zar Amir Ebrahimi
Lili will be portrayed by Iranian actress Zar Amir Ebrahimi, known for her award-winning performance in the 2022 Persian-language film Holy Spider. Ebrahimi’s personal story mirrors elements of the game; she fled Iran in 2008 after facing persecution under an authoritarian regime and now lives in exile in France.
Choices That Rewrite a Tragic Ending
While Shakespeare’s Macbeth is famously a tragedy, Lili introduces a new dimension: the ability to influence the outcome. Players’ decisions could lead to a more hopeful ending—a compelling twist on the original narrative.
Modern Updates to a Classic Tale
Adapting Macbeth to a contemporary Iranian setting required some creative changes. For example, the three witches who foretell Macbeth’s rise are reimagined as three hackers. These fresh elements aim to resonate with modern audiences while staying true to the core themes of the play.
Coming in 2025
Scheduled for release in 2025 on multiple gaming platforms, Lili promises to offer a unique experience that blends Shakespeare’s timeless story with innovative storytelling and gameplay.
Keep an eye out for more updates on this exciting project!
4o
