Amazon Prime Video’s Secret Level is a bold experiment in blending video games with anthology storytelling, offering a mesmerizing exploration of beloved game worlds and their hidden narratives. Created by Tim Miller (Deadpool, Love, Death & Robots), this series comprises 15 episodes, each standing alone as a creative tribute to the video game medium, while collectively redefining how these stories are told.
Secret Level is an animated anthology series that pays homage to some of the most beloved and iconic video game franchises. Each episode presents a unique narrative and art style that reflects the essence of its source material. Let’s take a deep dive into each episode and how it relates to the games they are based on.
1. Dungeons & Dragons: The Queen’s Cradle
This episode draws heavily from Dungeons & Dragons’ lore, particularly its Forgotten Realms campaign setting. The story centers on a party of adventurers embarking on a perilous quest to rescue Solon from the Cult of the Dragon. It concludes with an epic battle against Tiamat, the five-headed dragon queen. The episode captures the game’s spirit of teamwork, tactical decision-making, and high fantasy storytelling, appealing to both longtime players and newcomers.
2. Sifu: It Takes a Life
Inspired by Sifu’s martial arts gameplay, this episode explores the philosophy of revenge and mastery. The protagonist undergoes a journey similar to the game’s mechanics, where each defeat serves as a lesson, ultimately culminating in a final showdown. The fluid combat animation and disciplined focus on fighting techniques mirror the game’s core mechanics.
3. New World: The Once and Future King Relation to the Game:
Based on Amazon’s MMORPG New World, this episode delves into the mysteries of Aeternum, an island trapped in time. It explores themes of immortality and conquest, echoing the game’s lore about corrupted forces and ancient civilizations. The episode’s epic battles and rich world-building bring the MMO’s expansive universe to life.
4. Unreal Tournament: The Reaper
A tribute to the iconic first-person shooter Unreal Tournament, this episode thrives on its adrenaline-pumping action and fast-paced combat. It focuses on the fierce competition between combatants, highlighting the game’s chaotic yet exhilarating multiplayer experience.
5. Warhammer 40,000: And They Shall Know No Fear
This episode is a faithful adaptation of Warhammer 40,000, focusing on Space Marine Titus and his squad battling Chaos cultists. The intense battles, grim atmosphere, and sense of duty resonate deeply with fans of the tabletop and video game adaptations. The visuals capture the brutal and dark aesthetic that defines the franchise.
6. Pac-Man: Circle
Relation to the Game:
A dark reimagining of the arcade classic Pac-Man, this episode transforms the lighthearted maze-chase gameplay into a psychological thriller. The protagonist navigates a deadly labyrinth on an alien world, guided by a mysterious golden sphere. The concept of constantly being pursued mirrors the tension of the original game but with a chilling twist.
7. Mega Man: Start
This episode brings the nostalgic charm of Mega Man to life, featuring the titular hero battling classic Robot Masters. It captures the game’s core theme of resilience and innovation while paying homage to its colorful characters and upbeat tone.
8. Armored Core: Asset Management
Set in the mech-based universe of Armored Core, this episode emphasizes the tactical and strategic aspects of piloting an Armored Core. Featuring Keanu Reeves as a skilled pilot, the story explores the physical and mental toll of mech warfare, aligning with the franchise’s focus on intense combat and corporate intrigue.
9. Spelunky: The Depths
This episode captures the rogue-like adventure spirit of Spelunky. It follows a treasure hunter braving procedurally generated dangers, humorously portraying the unpredictability and risk-reward gameplay that defines the game.
10. Concord: First Contact
Set in the universe of Concord, a sci-fi shooter, this episode depicts humanity’s first contact with alien life. The suspense and themes of communication and survival tie closely to the game’s emphasis on exploration and interstellar diplomacy.
11. PlayStation: The Last Spartan
Drawing from the mythological roots of PlayStation’s iconic games, this episode delves into the legacy of a forgotten Spartan warrior. The cinematic battles and emotional storytelling pay tribute to classics like God of War while offering a fresh narrative.
12. Honor of Kings: The Unseen Blade
Based on the popular MOBA Honor of Kings, this episode centers on a legendary assassin’s journey. It reflects the game’s fast-paced action and deep character lore, bringing ancient Chinese mythology to life through stunning visuals.
13. The Outer Worlds 2: Spacer’s Choice
This satirical episode critiques corporate dystopia, a hallmark of The Outer Worlds. The dark humor and quirky characters align perfectly with the game’s tone, delivering a biting commentary on consumerism and exploitation.
14. Crossfire: Ghost Protocol
Inspired by the tactical shooter Crossfire, this military thriller explores themes of loyalty and betrayal. The action-packed sequences and strategic planning mirror the game’s emphasis on teamwork and precision.
15. Exodus: The Long Journey
As a poignant finale, this episode draws from survival games like The Long Dark or Metro: Exodus. It tells a story of hope and endurance in a desolate world, capturing the player’s emotional connection to survival in harsh environments.
Secret Level artfully transforms the essence of these games into rich, standalone narratives, making it a must-watch for gamers and animation enthusiasts alike. Each episode is a love letter to the gaming community, highlighting the diverse worlds and stories that video games offer.
Reception
Since its debut, Secret Level has sparked significant conversation. Critics lauded its creative risks, and fans appreciated the respect shown to the source material. Episodes like Warhammer 40,000 and Pac-Man stood out for their unique storytelling, while Armored Core and The Outer Worlds 2 were praised for their humor and depth.
Rotten Tomatoes scores reflect a mixed but generally positive reception, with a 67% approval rating, while fans on social media have championed the series as a love letter to gaming.
The Future of Secret Level
Amazon has already greenlit a second season, teasing new game universes to explore. Tim Miller hinted at potential adaptations of Hades, The Witcher, and Cyberpunk 2077.
Conclusion
Secret Level is more than just a TV series; it’s a celebration of gaming as an art form. Its innovative approach to storytelling and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for gamers and animation enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of these franchises or a casual viewer, Secret Level invites you to unlock the hidden stories behind the games you love.
