SXSW

Celebrating International Women’s History Month: Immerse yourself in the true story of Cheng Shih— from humble beginnings to leading the Red Flag Fleet in 19th-century China

Singer Studios announces the release of their debut game, the multi-award-winning narrative adventure The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend. Lucy Liu, renowned for her roles in ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and ‘Kill Bill’ takes centre stage as Cheng Shih, one of history’s most powerful and infamous pirates. Story seekers and history enthusiasts can embark on the cinematic VR experience by downloading the game now on Meta Quest and Steam for $16.99 USD.

Watch The Launch Trailer: https://youtu.be/HlT7173b9o0?si=dxMIn_ryQg_wIfxg

Drawing inspiration from true events, The Pirate Queen transports players through a meticulously crafted world, amidst the tumultuous waters of the 19th-century South China Sea. The adventure unfolds on the crucial night of Cheng Shih's ascent to leadership of the Red Flag Fleet. 

"I was unaware of Cheng Shih's story, however, after delving deeper into the material and researching further, I was astonished to learn of her history and the cunning intelligence she wielded to achieve such incredible power. The revelation that this narrative unfolds within a virtual realm, yet is rooted in genuine historical events, carries profound significance. It seamlessly intertwines the realms of tradition and innovation, offering an experience that transcends gaming, delivering authenticity, excitement, and a rich tapestry of history," remarked Lucy Liu, also serving as executive producer.

Celebrated for its breathtaking environments and compelling narrative, The Pirate Queen appeals to story enthusiasts, gaming novices, and history buffs alike. Accessible to all ages, the game offers an engaging VR experience without combat. Instead, its gameplay is focused on stealth and exploration — players row passed enemies undetected, scale rival ships, and uncover the forgotten tale of Cheng Shih amidst historically accurate environments.

“Being of Chinese-German heritage and having grown up in Hong Kong, a culturally sensitive approach was very important to me,” notes Maja Bodenstein, Lead Writer of The Pirate Queen. “Our aim was to create a narrative that was both fun and educational, tailored around the player experience. To this end, we developed the story and the core gameplay functions simultaneously, to make sure our scenario made full use of the unique opportunities offered by VR.”

Driven by a desire to illuminate Cheng Shih’s journey as a pioneering leader, Singer Studios’ has garnered critical acclaim for their extensive historical research, detailed storyline and immersive gameplay. The game has been honored with the Tribeca Storyscapes Award (2023) and the Raindance Discovery Award (2021). This immersive experience is just the beginning of an expansive franchise being developed by Singer Studios and executive producers Lucy Liu and Eloise Singer. 

“As a female-led studio, we're incredibly proud to be launching the game during International Women’s History Month. It marks the beginning of The Pirate Queen universe and I’m hugely excited to be working with Lucy to expand the story into a visually stunning graphic novel, film, and TV series.” said executive producer Eloise Singer, the project’s creative director, and Singer Studios’ CEO and Founder. 

“The team really threw themselves into how Cheng Shih’s world might look, sound and feel to craft the historical details that bring it to life. We’re looking forward to bringing this approach to the many other stories we want to share.” said Siobhan McDonnell, Producer of The Pirate Queen. 

The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend is available now on Meta Quest and Steam. For more information on Singer Studios’ multimedia projects, visit their website, sign up for their newsletter, and follow them on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and LinkedIn. Follow The Pirate Queen on the game’s Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date with the new adventure.  

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ABOUT THE PIRATE QUEEN

Embark on an epic journey through the turbulent waters of history in The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend. 

This narrative-driven game invites you to step into the boots of the most feared and respected pirate of all time, Cheng Shih.

Experience a captivating performance by renowned Hollywood actress Lucy Liu, who brings Cheng Shih's character to life, and the direction of critically acclaimed filmmaker and creative director Eloise Singer. 

From humble beginnings to commanding the infamous Red Flag Fleet, navigate through the trials and tribulations on the night Cheng Shih came to power. Explore moonlit cabins, climb precarious rigging, solve puzzles to outsmart adversaries, and exercise your wit to seize control of the fleet.

With light gameplay elements, the focus is on the narrative, for those who love to lose themselves in a story, crave the thrill of stepping into another time and place, and are eager to chart their course as the most powerful pirate in history. The game's striking visuals, atmospheric sound design, and meticulously researched historical context will transport you to the heart of the South China Sea during the Qing dynasty.

Celebrated for its cinematic narrative and beautifully crafted environments, the game has earned critical acclaim, winning the Tribeca Storyscapes Award (2023) and the Raindance Discovery Award (2021). 

Climb aboard and prepare to set sail on a journey of discovery, resilience and power. Do you have what it takes to become The Pirate Queen?

Centered on the pivotal night Cheng Shih ascends to power, this immersive adventure is just the beginning of an expansive The Pirate Queen franchise. Created by Singer Studios, and executive produced by Lucy Liu and Eloise Singer, the franchise will extend into a visually stunning graphic novel, film and TV series.

ABOUT SINGER STUDIOS

Founded by Eloise Singer in 2017, SINGER STUDIOS specialises in finding and telling untold stories which spark conversation, shift narratives and give audiences a fresh perspective. Having executively produced Billie Piper’s critically acclaimed 'Rare Beasts', as well as 'The Last Rifleman' starring Pierce Brosnan, SINGER STUDIOS is set to release The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend starring Lucy Liu in March 2024, alongside an investigative documentary series Inheritance with XYZ Films and Library Films. ‘Trailblazers: Mrs Benz’, the first in a series of stories about female innovators from the past, premiered in competition at Venice 2022 and is anticipated to reach screens in 2025. 

ABOUT ELOISE SINGER

Eloise Singer is a multi-award-winning creative director, and the founder and CEO of Singer Studios. Her work has been showcased at festivals worldwide, including Venice, London, SXSW, Sheffield, Tribeca, and Sundance: London. Notably, she executive produced Billie Piper’s breakout debut film ‘Rare Beasts’ and Universal’s ‘The Last Rifleman’ starring Pierce Brosnan. Singer proceeded to direct and executive produce the critically acclaimed ‘Mrs. Benz’, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival (2022), and ‘The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend’ starring Lucy Liu, which won the Tribeca Storyscapes Award (2023). She is now producing and directing an investigative documentary series with XYZ and Library Films set for release in Spring 2024.