With the highly anticipated release of Secret Level on Prime Video, audiences can look forward to a wave of adaptations from beloved video game franchises. The trend of transforming popular gaming intellectual properties (IPs) into television formats is gaining momentum, and Secret Level is set to continue this trajectory, following the success of previous adaptations such as Prime Video’s Fallout. Notably, the platform has also introduced shows based on titles like Like a Dragon: Yakuza in 2024 and plans for a Tomb Raider series, further enriching its roster of gaming-themed content.
This new series boasts an impressive cast, featuring notable names including Keanu Reeves, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kevin Hart, Claudia Doumit, and Ariana Greenblatt, highlighting the growing appeal of high-quality video game adaptations. The inaugural season of Secret Level will consist of 15 episodes, each exploring distinct gaming universes, with one exciting episode featuring a crossover of various PlayStation characters. As audiences anticipate the adaptations, curiosity will undoubtedly peak regarding the games being represented, especially those from franchises that made their debut as recently as 2024.
15 Armored Core
FromSoftware’s Third-Person Shooter Focuses on Mech-Based Combat
While Armored Core might not have topped the list of anticipated adaptations, this long-standing franchise has much to offer. Set in a dystopian version of Earth where humanity has sought refuge underground, this third-person shooter pits corporations against each other in a battle for dominance, all through thrilling mech combat. Players can customize their mechs to tackle a variety of foes, creating unique battles that make each installment engaging. Even with its 1997 debut, Armored Core remains relevant, continually evolving its futuristic warfare elements.
14 Concord
PlayStation’s Canceled Hero Shooter Never Really Got Off the Ground
Despite its potential, Concord fell short of becoming the blockbuster Sony envisioned. The development reportedly cost over $200 million, making its cancellation shortly after release surprising, especially since it was intended to rival franchises like Overwatch. With a roster of 16 characters in team-based gameplay, the game struggled to differentiate itself from competitors, resulting in its rapid decline.
Players engaged in fast-paced matches across various modes, but despite the high production values and fun mechanics, the game’s lack of distinct characters and innovative ideas contributed to its downfall.
13 Crossfire
The Tactical First-Person Shooter Became Massive in Asia
In contrast to Concord, Crossfire has firmly established its presence in the gaming world, particularly in Asia, where it has become one of the top shooters. While lesser-known in the West, its competitive, free-to-play nature drew players, offering classic modes like Team Deathmatch. Although many may be unaware of its success—over $10 billion in revenue—Crossfire’s triumph has spurred both cinematic and television adaptations.
12 Dungeons & Dragons
Beginning as a beloved tabletop game, Dungeons & Dragons has evolved into a thriving video game franchise with numerous adaptations. Players typically explore fantasy worlds, facing unique enemies while forging bonds with other characters, as determined by their decisions in both tabletop and digital formats. Recent success stories, like Baldur’s Gate 3‘s Game of the Year accolade in 2023, showcase the enduring legacy of this franchise.
11 Exodus
The Sci-Fi RPG Takes Place on a Hostile Planet
Though not yet released, Exodus will feature in Secret Level, bringing a riveting narrative centered on survival against alien forces after humanity’s departure from Earth. Set on a treacherous planet, this action-packed RPG is generating buzz with its captivating trailers, setting high expectations for its integration into the series.
10 Honor of Kings
Honor of Kings Proved the Popularity of Online Mobile Games
Secret Level’s lineup reflects a commitment to showcasing various gaming platforms, including the mobile phenomenon Honor of Kings. This game has gained immense popularity as one of the top MOBAs in recent years, providing players the thrilling experience of controlling characters to destroy opponents’ bases, reminiscent of League of Legends. Its gameplay also allows character upgrade paths, adding layers of depth to the experience.
9 Mega Man
Capcom’s Platformer Game Has Been Going Strong Since the 1980s
Mega Man is a standout among the introduced games in Secret Level, thanks to its enduring popularity since its 1980s launch. This classic action platformer sees players control Mega Man, battling through diverse challenges while honing their skills and strategies against Dr. Wily’s forces. The iconic and fast-paced gameplay combined with nostalgic visuals ensures its continued resonance with audiences today.
8 New World
The Supernatural RPG Could Have a Big Future
The MMORPG New World embodies the core ideals of its genre, offering players extensive crafting, PvP combat, and countless quests. This particular adaptation will draw from its 2021 release and subsequent updates, effectively portraying its immersive supernatural themes and showcasing the expansive gaming universe, ample for exploration.
7 Pac-Man
Pac-Man Is One of the Biggest Arcade Games Ever Made
The classic Pac-Man is undoubtedly a recognizable figure in gaming history, having evolved since its 1980 introduction. The fundamental task of racing through a maze to collect dots while avoiding ghosts has been expanded upon through numerous spin-offs and adaptations across various genres. The MS. Pac-Man success was particularly notable, making the iconic franchise a worthy addition to Secret Level’s lineup.
6 Playtime
Secret Level’s PlayStation Episode Looks Set to Feature Some Iconic Names
One exciting episode titled Playtime will serve as a mashup of multiple iconic PlayStation IPs, with the legendary God of War confirmed to make an appearance. Known for its rich narrative and action-packed gameplay, the series is likely to leave a lasting impression on viewers. Additionally, Jin Sakai from Ghost of Tsushima is included, with anticipation around its cinematic adaptation providing great hype for these beloved franchises.
5 Sifu
Sifu Is a Unique & Breathtaking Modern Beat ‘Em Up Game
Sifu takes players on a visually stunning journey as a martial arts student seeking vengeance for a loss. The game cleverly incorporates a system where the protagonist ages with each defeat, creating a poignant layer to the narrative. Boasting an immersive setting and engaging mechanics, Sifu’s adaptation in Secret Level promises to encapsulate its unique storytelling and striking visuals.
4 Spelunky
Despite Having Independent Developer, Spelunky Became One of the Biggest Platformers of the 21st Century
Spelunky carved its niche in gaming with its innovative mechanics and inspired level design since its 2008 debut. Players explore randomly generated caves seeking treasure while dodging traps and enemies, enhancing its replayability. The game’s success spawned a sequel that expanded upon its foundation, making it a prime candidate for a captivating episode in Secret Level.
3 The Outer Worlds
Obsidian’s Futuristic RPG Has Nearly Endless Replayability
Set in a dystopian future characterized by corporate colonization, The Outer Worlds rapidly captured the attention of RPG enthusiasts upon its release in 2019. With the unique star system of Halcyon as its backdrop, players navigate expansive environments, choose their skill paths, and interact with diverse characters. Given its similarities to established franchises like Fallout, its adaptation into Secret Level is sure to garner interest.
2 Unreal Tournament
The Classic Arena Shooter Hasn’t Had a New Game in Years
As a pioneer of the arena shooter genre, Unreal Tournament has been a staple within the gaming community. Players engage in diverse game modes, allowing for both team-based and solitary experiences. Although the franchise hasn’t seen a fresh iteration in recent years, it remains influential, shaping much of the modern shooting game landscape.
1 Warhammer 40,000
The upcoming episode featuring Warhammer 40,000 promises an engaging adaptation of another iconic tabletop game that has transitioned successfully to video gaming. The complex gameplay involves strategic movements and battles between factions, making it a delightful fit for adaptation. Despite its relatively niche origins, the franchise’s expansion into video games and its captivating lore underscores its relevance in the contemporary gaming world.
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