Secret Level Creator Recalls Microsoft’s Rejection to Join Halo Series
In a recent interview with Collider, Secret Level’s creator Tim Miller and executive producer Dave Wilson shed light on the inner workings of Secret Level, Amazon Prime’s latest series inspired by video games. The duo revealed some intriguing details about the challenges they faced while assembling the lineup of games featured in the show, including Microsoft’s rejection to join forces with the Halo series.
The Tough Reality of Adapting Video Games
Miller and Wilson discussed the growing trend of studios venturing into TV and movie adaptations of popular video game franchises. With projects like Fallout, Devil May Cry, Arcane, Castlevania, The Last of Us, and Sonic the Hedgehog movies in the works, the competition for securing developers’ participation has become increasingly fierce. Wilson acknowledged the difficulty of convincing some developers to come on board, citing instances where gaming IPs were courted by Hollywood, only to see the deals fall through.
The Missed Opportunity with Halo
One notable game that didn’t make the cut for Secret Level was Halo, a beloved franchise that already boasts its own series. Despite Miller and Wilson’s genuine interest in creating a Master Chief/Doom Slayer crossover episode, their pitch to Microsoft was met with a polite refusal. The duo emphasized their admiration for Halo and their desire to offer something fresh and unexpected to fans through the potential collaboration, but alas, it was not meant to be.
Embracing the Selections and Looking Ahead
While Secret Level may have missed out on featuring certain iconic games, Miller and Wilson expressed contentment with the titles that did make it into the series. They emphasized that the selection process was complex and not every desired game could be included due to various constraints. Miller highlighted that each game featured in Secret Level holds a special place in their hearts, despite the challenges faced during the curation process.
As the creators hinted at the possibility of revisiting certain games for future seasons, there remains a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting surprises in upcoming episodes. While Valve’s Half-Life may not have made the debut in the first season, the door is not entirely closed on its potential inclusion in the future, leaving room for speculation and anticipation among viewers.
In the ever-evolving landscape of video game adaptations, Secret Level’s journey serves as a reminder of the intricate negotiations and creative decisions that shape the final product. While some dreams may not materialize immediately, the resilience and passion of creators like Miller and Wilson continue to fuel the imaginative world of Secret Level.