Secret Level is set to premiere on Prime Video with eight episodes on December 10, followed by additional episodes debuting on December 17. The animated anthology series promises to offer a range of video games and genres for viewers to enjoy.
For a few episodes at least, Secret Level seems to depict a respectable range of video games and genres. Each episode explores a different aspect of gaming, from fantasy adventures in Dungeons & Dragons to sci-fi carnage in Unreal Tournament. The art style varies, with some episodes like Sifu opting for a more stylized and cartoonish approach, while others favor realism.
However, as the series progresses, a sense of monotony sets in. The common tropes found in many video games start to become repetitive, with crafting menus, skill trees, and companion characters making frequent appearances. While the series attempts to explore different games and styles, it struggles to break free from these familiar elements.
Despite its shortcomings, Secret Level does offer some unique glimpses into various game worlds. From the diverse fantasy races in the D&D episode to the gritty realism of Warhammer 40,000, each episode brings something different to the table. Even the multiplayer shooter Crossfire adds a modern-day conflict to a series dominated by far-off futures and fantasy realms.
However, the more distinct games often receive shorter episodes, limiting the depth of exploration. Games like Sifu, Spelunky, and Mega Man offer brief distractions from the series’ overall affinity for realism and sci-fi firearms, but they lack the time to fully immerse viewers in their worlds.
At its best, Secret Level effectively conveys the appeal of its characters and the worlds they inhabit. While some episodes fall flat, others like The Outer Worlds manage to tell engaging stories with flawed and relatable characters. Small triumphs like these are scattered throughout the series, providing moments of entertainment amidst the overall monotony.
However, the series’ reliance on recognizable games and brands can sometimes hinder its storytelling. Many episodes struggle to tell satisfying, self-contained stories within the constraints of each game’s universe. While some episodes make earnest attempts to explore the worlds of their respective games, others feel derivative and lackluster.
While Secret Level falls short of its potential, there is still hope for video game anthology series. Successful adaptations like Fallout and The Last of Us demonstrate that games can translate into compelling stories that resonate with a wider audience. Moving forward, creators will need to focus on confident storytelling and a more varied selection of games to create a truly successful anthology series in this genre.