Ranking Every Episode of Secret Level

Overview

Secret Level is a new Amazon anthology series created by Tim Miller, showcasing various video game franchises.
The series features a collection of short episodes that delve into titles such as Unreal Tournament, Warhammer 40,000, and Crossfire.
Each episode presents a unique exploration of gaming’s action, lore, and thematic messages.

Secret Level emerges as an innovative anthology series on Amazon, crafted by Tim Miller, the creative mind behind the acclaimed series Love, Death & Robots. Tim Miller, who also directed the smash hit Deadpool, has established a strong reputation in the gaming and entertainment community. Collaborating with Blur Studio—renowned for its cinematic contributions to video games—this anthology takes viewers on a visually striking journey through various beloved gaming properties, from Armored Core to Unreal Tournament.

The inaugural season consists of just eight episodes, with a second season already in the works that promises to include iconic characters like Mega Man. Before the anticipated new season arrives, let’s evaluate the first season’s episodes, ranking them based on entertainment value, while sharing insights and providing spoilers. **Consider this your spoiler alert!**

8 Unreal Tournament: Xan

Get Ready to Rebel

A robot in Unreal Tournament Xan from Secret Level

Episode 4

Unreal Tournament remains a classic in the realm of multiplayer shooters, dominating the gaming scene in the 90s. In the episode titled Unreal Tournament: Xan, viewers are transported to a distant future where humanity engages in epic gladiatorial contests with robots. After initial victories by human players, the robots develop the capacity to learn and ultimately stage a rebellion against their human adversaries.

While the plot lacks depth, the episode features exhilarating action sequences packed with explosive moments. However, as a lesser-known franchise, it may not resonate strongly with new audiences discovering this series.

7 Warhammer 40,000: And They Shall Know No Fear

We’re Done Here

Titus in Warhammer 40,000 And They Shall Know No Fear from Secret Level

Episode 5

The Warhammer 40,000 universe has experienced a surge in gaming adaptations, with the latest title being Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. This episode, Warhammer 40,000: And They Shall Know No Fear, features Titus—a character from the aforementioned game—but primarily presents him as a supporting figure amid the chaos.

Set against a backdrop of a dusty canyon, the episode shows Space Marines ruthlessly dispatching heretics. Notably, the climax features a mesmerizing scene involving a time-manipulating demon, showcasing the series’ signature flair for the dramatic.

6 Crossfire: Good Conflict

Score One for the Good Guys

A driving scene featuring characters in Crossfire Good Conflict from Secret Level

Episode 7

Crossfire represents a modern take on multiplayer shooters, emphasizing tactical military conflict. In Crossfire: Good Conflict, we follow a mercenary unit charged with protecting a client and his briefcase amidst a rain-soaked urban battlefield.

The episode presents a thought-provoking conclusion, suggesting that both sides believe they are the heroes of their narratives. This exploration of perspective, while familiar in storytelling, remains compelling and relevant.

5 Dungeons & Dragons: The Queen’s Cradle

In Need of a Cleric

A scene featuring characters in Dungeons & Dragons The Queen’s Cradle from Secret Level

Episode 1

Dungeons & Dragons, a cornerstone of tabletop RPGs, has inspired numerous video game adaptations. Dungeons & Dragons: The Queen’s Cradle tells the tale of a group of four adventurers tasked with rescuing a young man affected by mysterious markings on his body.

The narrative unfolds as the party’s Paladin seeks assistance from a dragon to rid the young man of a powerful spell. This engaging episode is enriched with witty dialogue and emotive interactions, complemented by the dynamic visuals of magical combat.

4 Sifu: It Takes A Life

Everybody Was Kung Fu Fighting

A fight scene featuring characters in Sifu It Takes A Life from Secret Level

Episode 2

Sifu revolves around a young martial artist seeking vengeance after witnessing the death of his master. This roguelike title incorporates a unique mechanic where players age with each revival, significantly affecting their character’s appearance and capabilities.

Sifu: It Takes a Life adeptly encapsulates the game’s lore, presenting a fast-paced retelling of the student’s backstory and relentless pursuit of revenge. The action-packed choreography and an intriguing, albeit peculiar, ending leave viewers intrigued.

3 Pac-Man: Circle

You Look Hungry, Eat

Pac-Man in Pac-Man Circle from Secret Level

Episode 6

Everyone recognizes Pac-Man, the iconic arcade character synonymous with gaming. However, Pac-Man: Circle diverges sharply from the classic game’s lore, presenting a fresh narrative inspired by an upcoming spin-off titled Shadow Labyrinth.

This episode opens with a character emerging from a tube, greeted by a mysterious golden orb that prompts him to consume and grow stronger to escape the confines of a maze. With a montage showcasing graphic violence, the conclusion reveals a time loop where successive hatchlings meet the same fate, leaving viewers questioning the cycle of existence.

2 Armored Core: Asset Management

Wake Up, Samurai

Pilot in Armored Core Asset Management from Secret Level

Episode 8

Armored Core, once a niche series, has gained traction with the release of Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon. In Armored Core: Asset Management, the episode features Keanu Reeves, digitally rendered to resemble his younger days from the The Matrix.

As the storyline unfolds, Reeves’ character embarks on an action-packed mission that culminates in an epic mech battle, with his participation significantly elevating the episode’s appeal.

1 New World: The Once and Future King

Live, Die, Repeat

Aelstrom in New World The Once And Future King from Secret Level

Episode 3

New World, an online action RPG developed within Amazon, delivers an impactful short with New World: The Once and Future King. Featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger as a would-be ruler washed ashore, the narrative unfolds through humorous duels against the local king, resulting in Schwarzenegger’s character’s repeated comical demises.

This episode balances humor with deeper themes, concluding with a poignant message that resonates beyond the laughs.

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