Usually when it comes to video game inspired television, we receive a series focusing on a single game. The upcoming Secret Level plans to deliver 15 different stories centered around some of the biggest franchises in the industry. We owe the new anthology animated series to the man behind the award winning Love, Death & Robots, Tim Miller.
The series is a visual delight transporting viewers to different stunning worlds. The attention to detail is admirable whether in space, a bustling metropolis, or a fantasy realm. They all seem very real, and combined with the accurate likeness of some of the voice actors, it’s hard to believe it’s all animation. It is far superior to any cutscene out there. Secret Level is merely showing off when it incorporates weather elements such as snow and rain.
Equally impressive are the extraordinary action sequences. With such an eclectic mix of games, it calls for different types of choreography and fight scenes that the show expertly executes. From close hand to hand combat to shootouts to battles with magic and sorcery, they are all gripping and intense. The accompanying soundtracks also help immerse yourself into the action. The opening Dungeons & Dragons and the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marines episodes are standouts.
Despite the video game aspect of Secret Level, each tale is approachable even if you’re not familiar with all the titles. It’s not all non-stop action with several exploring themes of love, family, and friendship. Of course, if you are a fan, there are plenty of details and Easter eggs to appreciate. Every episode captures the essence of the featured game while telling a new original story.
However, some episodes resonate more than others. With 15 in the season, it’s difficult to hit home runs each time. The Pac-Man episode is definitely an interesting take on the franchise, but it proves to be too bizarre to get into. The show took a regularly wholesome franchise and made it dark, violent and creepy.
The ordering of the season as a whole is also a bit off. When binging, which is easy to do since episodes run around 10-15 minutes, there can be a disconnect as you move from story to story. There isn’t a consistent theme throughout other than video games. The first half is more action oriented drawing you in, while the latter half slows the pace and seems to explore deeper personal connections. This drop-off can be disappointing considering how strong it started.
Despite a slow finish, Secret Level is action packed, visually great, and tells compelling stories capturing the essence of some of the most popular video games.
Secret Level launches Tuesday, December 10, on Prime Video.
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