Prime Video’s anthology series, *Secret Level*, debuted in December 2022, aiming to bring various video game universes to life through animated storytelling. Each episode is crafted to celebrate unique aspects of gaming culture, drawing inspiration from a wide array of franchises. However, conspicuously absent from the series are two titanic names in the industry: *Halo* and *Doom*. This absence raises questions about the complexities of securing adaptation rights, especially given the potential fan interest that could have been tapped into.
The creative minds behind *Secret Level*, including supervising director Dave Wilson and creator Tim Miller, were not blind to the allure of including *Halo* and *Doom* in their series. In recent discussions with Collider, Wilson explained that negotiations with Microsoft were attempted but ultimately failed. The challenges were compounded by the existing commitments Microsoft had with other projects, particularly given that *Secret Level* was a fresh concept aiming to carve out its own niche in an increasingly saturated market. As Wilson articulated, some executives viewed the new series as a potential distraction from ongoing deals.
Miller did not shy away from defending their efforts during these negotiations, noting that the creative team actively sought to include *Halo*. Frustration emerged from their attempts being dismissed, which led to critiques circulating among fans who felt the creators had neglected the franchise in favor of lesser-known titles. Miller’s sentiments reflect a broader issue within the industry—audiences often underestimate the complexities creators face when negotiating rights and franchised content.
In their quest for elite franchises, Wilson and Miller devoted considerable time exploring how a *Master Chief* and *Doom Slayer* crossover could resonate with audiences. Wilson revealed that they even dedicated an entire weekend to draft a heartfelt proposal to Microsoft. Despite their enthusiasm and connections within the industry—having friendships with key figures at both Microsoft and id Software—these efforts were met with a definitive “no.” This scenario highlights an often-overlooked reality in creative industries where relationships alone may not suffice to seal a deal.
Interestingly, while *Halo* and *Doom* did not make the cut, *Secret Level* included episodes inspired by other Microsoft-affiliated games, such as *The Outer Worlds*, developed by Obsidian—Microsoft’s subsidiary. This point underscores the intricate tapestry of relationships within the entertainment and gaming sectors, where rights to some franchises are tightly secured, and negotiations can become complicated by concurrent deals and existing agreements.
The negotiations surrounding *Secret Level* are indicative of a larger trend where many franchises are locked in exclusive agreements, sometimes preventing their inclusion in potentially lucrative adaptations. Wilson hinted at missed opportunities, stating that they approached various intellectual properties that were at their zenith but ultimately couldn’t secure adaptation rights, largely due to Hollywood’s intricate web of interests.
Simultaneously, Miller and his team’s attempts to procure rights for *Half-Life* yielded similarly disappointing results. This illustrates the high stakes involved in franchise management where timing, interest, and availability can dictate the evolution of content.
As for *Secret Level* itself, the response thus far has been subdued, with reviews indicating a blend of successes and missteps. Critics have expressed a mix of appreciation for the innovative concept while pointing out areas where episodes felt disjointed or undercooked. Looking ahead, anticipation builds for Season 2, where the question remains: which franchises will ultimately be secured for adaptation, and will the team learn from past negotiations?
The struggles encountered by the *Secret Level* team serve as a microcosm demonstrating the challenges that arise when merging two vast realms: video games and visual storytelling. As the series gears up for its second season, fans and creators alike are left to ponder what iconic universes may finally find their way to the small screen, possibly reshaping the landscape of video game adaptations. The journey of *Secret Level* echoes the complexity inherent in the creative process, where even the most ambitious aspirations can encounter formidable barriers.