Secret Level – A High-Score Anthology for Gamers [Episode 1-8 Review]
The highly anticipated anthology series Secret Level has officially dropped on Prime Video, and it’s every bit as captivating as fans of gaming and animation could have hoped. With 15 episodes planned and the first eight now available for binge-watching, the series bursts onto the scene as an ode to the gaming worlds we adore. Helmed by executive producers Tim Miller and Dave Wilson—who previously wowed us with Love, Death & Robots, Secret Level elevates video game storytelling to cinematic heights.
Each episode of Secret Level is a self-contained narrative, making the anthology format its greatest strength. There’s no need to watch in chronological order; instead, you can dive headfirst into whichever gaming property catches your eye. The series opens with a catchy theme that perfectly sets the tone for the immersive journey ahead. From iconic franchises like Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer 40,000 to unexpected renditions of classics like Pac-Man, Secret Level delivers a mix of nostalgia and innovation.
Episode 1: Dungeons & Dragons - The Queen's Cradle
The premiere episode sets a high bar with a thrilling adventure that feels ripped straight from a well-loved campaign. A diverse party of adventurers—including a Paladin, Wizard, Druid, and Monk—rescues a tattooed captive tied to the Dragon Queen Tiamat. The action sequences are masterfully choreographed, showcasing fan-favorite spells and combat abilities, and the rich fantasy atmosphere immerses viewers in the world of Faerûn. It’s a love letter to fans of tabletop RPGs and a reminder of why D&D has remained a cultural mainstay.
Score: 9/10
Episode 2: Sifu - It Takes a Life
This emotional tale of revenge is a standout. The protagonist’s journey, guided by a string of golden coins, is steeped in mystery and heart. The martial arts sequences are breathtaking, with animation capturing the visceral intensity of hand-to-hand combat. This episode demonstrates the anthology’s ability to blend action with introspection, honoring Sifu’s themes while offering something new.
Score: 10/10
Episode 3: New World - The Once and Future King
Arnold Schwarzenegger lends his iconic voice to a would-be conqueror stumbling upon the immortal kingdom of Aeternum. Packed with humor and heart, this episode offers a lighter tone compared to its darker counterparts. The exploration of leadership and friendship makes it surprisingly touching, while Schwarzenegger’s performance ensures it’s as entertaining as it is meaningful.
Score: 8/10
Episode 4: Unreal Tournament - Xan
Few episodes match the frenetic energy of this one. Chronicling the origins of Unreal Tournament’s iconic bloodsport, it’s a chaotic and thrilling dive into arena combat. Featuring the recognizable announcer and robotic characters grappling with rebellion, this episode perfectly captures the adrenaline of late-night multiplayer matches.
Score: 9/10
Episode 5: Warhammer 40,000 - And They Shall Know No Fear
For fans of grimdark sci-fi, this episode delivers everything you’d expect from the Warhammer 40K universe. Following a squad of Space Marines on a brutal mission, it’s a blood-soaked spectacle that pulls no punches. The visuals are stunning, capturing the brutal elegance of bolter fire and the sheer scale of the Imperium’s war machine.
Score: 10/10
Episode 6: Pac-Man - Circle
Perhaps the most unexpected entry, this haunting reimagining of Pac-Man transforms the game into a tale of sacrifice and mystery. A warrior awakens to aid a golden orb’s escape, with the episode leaning into eerie, minimalist storytelling. It’s a testament to the anthology’s willingness to experiment and reinvent familiar icons.
Score: 10/10
Episode 7: Crossfire - Good Conflict
While not the strongest of the bunch, this episode offers solid photorealistic animation and an intriguing premise. Two mercenary groups clash amidst a hurricane, with moral ambiguity at the forefront. Despite its engaging visuals, the story struggles to leave a lasting impression compared to its counterparts.
Score: 7/10
Episode 8: Armored Core - Asset Management
Keanu Reeves shines in this high-octane tale about a mech pilot uncovering startling truths about his uniqueness. The combat sequences are a masterclass in dynamic animation, with the camera work immersing viewers in every explosive moment. Reeves brings gravitas to his role, anchoring the episode with a strong emotional core.
Score: 9/10
A Celebration of Gaming Worlds
What makes Secret Level stand out is its ability to balance faithful adaptations with creative storytelling. As executive producer Tim Miller put it, “We’re not afraid of the companies. We’re afraid of the fans.” This ethos is evident in the care and detail poured into each episode. Familiarity with the source material enhances the experience, but even newcomers can appreciate the stunning visuals, clever narratives, and impressive voice acting.
The animation is consistently top-tier, with each episode resembling a cinematic cutscene brought to life. The various animation studios hard work shines through the variety of styles, from the grim realism of Warhammer 40K to the ethereal world of Pac-Man. The voice performances are equally stellar, with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Keanu Reeves standing out as highlights.
Room for Improvement
While the series is a triumph overall, there are minor missteps. Episodes like Crossfire - Good Conflict lack the emotional punch of others, and some viewers may find the anthology format jarring. Additionally, the reliance on visual fidelity occasionally overshadows narrative depth, with certain episodes feeling more like technical showcases than complete stories.
Final Score - 9/10
Secret Level is an ambitious and highly entertaining anthology that succeeds in honoring the worlds it draws from while offering fresh perspectives. Its ability to mix nostalgia with innovation makes it a must-watch for gamers and animation enthusiasts alike. While not every episode is a home run, the series as a whole captures the magic of gaming in a way few adaptations have managed.
As we await the second batch of episodes, one thing is clear: Secret Level has set a high bar for video game storytelling on screen. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the featured games or a casual viewer, this is a series worth diving into. Prime Video’s latest gem is a celebration of gaming culture that hits all the right notes.
