Released during International Women’s History Month, “The Pirate Queen” aims to shed light on Cheng Shih’s remarkable rise to power. Players are invited to navigate the treacherous waters of the 19th-century South China Sea as Cheng Shih leads the Red Flag Fleet. The game is available for download on Meta Quest and Steam, priced at $17.
Singer Studios has meticulously crafted a virtual world that draws inspiration from historical events. Players can expect a mix of authenticity, excitement, and rich storytelling as they unravel Cheng Shih’s forgotten tale. The focus on stealth and exploration sets “The Pirate Queen” apart, allowing players of all ages to row past enemies undetected, scale rival ships, and uncover the secrets of Cheng Shih’s past.
Cultural sensitivity was a key consideration for the developers of “The Pirate Queen.” Lead writer Maja Bodenstein, who has Chinese-German heritage and grew up in Hong Kong, ensured a narrative that was both fun and educational. The aim was to create an experience that resonated with players while respecting the cultural context.
“The Pirate Queen” has already gained recognition with awards such as the Tribeca Storyscapes Award in 2023 and the Raindance Discovery Award in 2021. Singer Studios’ CEO, Eloise Singer, expressed pride in launching the game during International Women’s History Month. As a female-led studio, she sees this as just the beginning for “The Pirate Queen” universe, with plans to expand the story into a graphic novel, film, and TV series.
Singer Studios, founded in 2017, has already made waves in the entertainment industry. The studio has worked on projects such as Billie Piper’s “Rare Beasts” and “The Last Rifleman” starring Pierce Brosnan. Currently, they are developing the investigative documentary series “Inheritance” in collaboration with XYZ Films and Library Films. Additionally, Singer Studios premiered “Trailblazers: Mrs Benz,” the first installment of a series celebrating female innovators from the past, at the Venice Film Festival in 2022.
“The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend” is an exciting addition to the gaming industry, offering players an opportunity to immerse themselves in a captivating historical narrative. With Lucy Liu’s talent and Singer Studios’ dedication to authenticity, this VR game promises an unforgettable experience. As we celebrate International Women’s History Month, “The Pirate Queen” serves as a reminder of the incredible women who have shaped history and the power of storytelling to educate and entertain.
