**Prime Video’s *Secret Level*: Aspirations for Season 2**
Prime Video’s *Secret Level*, an anthology featuring animated shorts inspired by cherished video game franchises, has swiftly ignited the enthusiasm of gamers and animation fans alike. Created by Tim Miller and Blur Studio, the inaugural season, scheduled to debut on December 10, includes 15 episodes that explore diverse gaming realms, spanning from *Warhammer 40,000* to *Dungeons & Dragons*, and even a comedic rendition of *New World: Aeternum* with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Although the first season offers a mix of successes and shortcomings, it has generated considerable anticipation for future installments.
As fans look forward to the upcoming release, it’s difficult not to ponder the potential for an imagined second season. With a multitude of iconic video game franchises ready for adaptation, here are five titles that could propel *Secret Level* to greater heights.
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### **5) *Fallout***
It’s quite unexpected that *Fallout* was not included in *Secret Level*’s debut season, particularly with the excitement surrounding Amazon’s live-action adaptation of the post-apocalyptic series. Perhaps the choice was made to prevent overwhelming audiences with *Fallout* content. Nevertheless, the franchise’s rich backstory and darkly comedic tone make it an ideal contender for an animated short.
Blur Studio could delve into the chilling history of a particular Vault, such as Vault 108 from *Fallout 3*, notorious for its disturbing clones who only utter “Gary.” Alternatively, they might explore the pre-Bethesda period of the series, providing a new viewpoint on the original *Fallout* games that modern players may not have encountered. With its unique combination of grit, satire, and emotional nuance, *Fallout* could yield an exceptional episode that complements both the games and the live-action adaptation.
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### **4) *Diablo***
Few franchises embody dark fantasy as much as Blizzard’s *Diablo*. The series’ narrative, steeped in the ongoing battle between Heaven and Hell, presents a wealth of storytelling possibilities. Blur Studio’s realistic CGI approach would be perfectly suited to the franchise’s gothic aesthetics, vividly depicting the grotesque demons of the Burning Hells and the morally complex Angels of the High Heavens.
And we can’t overlook the legendary “cow level” from *Diablo II*. What started as a gaming myth from the ’90s turned into a beloved Easter egg, and a *Secret Level* episode could embrace this absurdity for an entertaining blend of horror and humor. Whether showcasing the tragedy of a fallen hero or plunging into the chaos of demonic bovine pandemonium, *Diablo* would be an exhilarating addition to the anthology.
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### **3) *Celeste***
One of the standout segments in *Secret Level*’s first season was the adaptation of *Spelunky*, which fused Blur Studio’s CGI with the game’s minimalist design. For a second season, another indie favorite deserving attention is *Celeste*.
The critically acclaimed platformer narrates the tale of Madeline as she ascends the mountain of the same name, overcoming not only physical obstacles but also her personal demons, personified as “Badeline.” Its themes of mental health, resilience, and self-discovery would translate beautifully into a short film. Blur Studio could play with hybrid animation techniques, merging the game’s pixel art with their signature CGI to craft a visually striking and emotionally impactful episode.
By incorporating more inventive and visually captivating games like *Celeste*, *Secret Level* could broaden its roster and attract a wider audience.
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### **2) *Pitfall***
Before *Super Mario Bros.* and *Minecraft*, Jack Black was linked to another timeless video game: *Pitfall*. This Atari 2600 classic, though simple in gameplay, is laden with thematic richness. The escapades of Pitfall Harry, traversing crocodile-filled swamps and avoiding rolling logs, could be reimagined in several innovative ways.
Blur Studio might opt for a gritty, realistic approach, transforming the jungle into an intense and perilous setting. Alternatively, they could adopt a more whimsical tone, similar to the *Spelunky* episode, or even pursue an abstract, surreal interpretation like the *Pac-Man* episode from season one. With the appropriate creative direction, *Pitfall* could serve as a nostalgic yet original addition to *Secret Level*.
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### **1) *Metroid***
If there’s one game that enthusiasts would be thrilled to see in *Secret Level*, it’s *Metroid*. However, this is possibly the least likely scenario, given Nintendo’s historically stringent control over its intellectual properties. Nevertheless, the sci-fi escapades of Samus Aran would align perfectly with the anthology’s concept.
Blur Studio’s realistic CGI could effectively convey the atmospheric
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