The release of the Armored Core-inspired short film, Secret Level, has ignited discussions across various platforms, particularly drawing attention from Peter Watts, the author who penned the original story for the project. Watts, a renowned science fiction author known for his intricate and thought-provoking work, including the acclaimed novel Blindsight, offers a unique perspective on the creative process behind the short film through a detailed blog post. His commentary unveils fascinating insights into the initial concept and its evolution, highlighting the interplay between his original vision and the final product.
Watts’ initial story directly tied into the narrative of Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, specifically referencing key elements such as Handler Walter and the enigmatic substance known as Coral. While these explicit connections were later attenuated, the setting and the distinct design of the enemy mecha in Secret Level still subtly allude to a prequel timeline, albeit with a less explicit narrative link. The author’s revelation about the original name of Keanu Reeves’ titular Armored Core, CHICXULUB, provides another intriguing glimpse into the creative process. While the name was ultimately changed to Shrieker, presumably for practical dialogue purposes, the initial choice showcases Watts’ penchant for thoughtful and symbolic nomenclature, reflecting the cataclysmic potential of the machine.
One of the most compelling aspects of Watts’ analysis lies in his identification of a narrative inconsistency within the short film. He astutely points out the lack of communication between the enemy pilots and Keanu Reeves’ character, a surprising omission given the prevalence of such interactions in the Armored Core games themselves. This observation underscores a potential trade-off between narrative depth and the prioritization of visceral, action-packed visuals in the short film format. Notably, Watts’ engagement with fan discussions on platforms like Reddit, specifically the Armored Core subreddit, further enriches his commentary. He acknowledges the fan community’s recognition of the cockroach/beetle motif present in Secret Level, a connection to Armored Core Last Raven that he himself was previously unaware of. This interaction exemplifies the dynamic exchange between creators and their audience, highlighting the valuable insights that can arise from such engagement.
Watts’ openly acknowledges his unfamiliarity with the mecha genre, presenting a refreshing honesty that underscores his focus on crafting a narrative that resonated with the core themes of Armored Core, even without a deep immersion in the genre’s conventions. This approach, while perhaps surprising, ultimately allowed him to approach the story with a fresh perspective, unobstructed by preconceived notions. He respected the source material, and his narrative contribution served as a solid foundation for the visual spectacle created by the animation team at Blur Studio. While Secret Level undoubtedly presents a departure from traditional Armored Core storytelling, it offers a compelling experiment in translating the game’s visceral combat and gritty atmosphere into a more cinematic format. The short film effectively captures the essence of piloting an Armored Core, conveying the mechanical weight and power of these war machines through impressive animation and sound design.
Despite the brevity of Secret Level and the potential missed opportunity to collaborate with a renowned mecha designer like Shoji Kawamori, the film remains a significant milestone for the Armored Core franchise. It represents a bold attempt to expand the series’ reach beyond its traditional gaming audience, offering a glimpse into the world of Armored Core for a wider viewership. For longtime fans of the franchise, like the author of this very analysis, the existence of Secret Level is a testament to the enduring appeal and influence of the series. It is a celebration of the rich lore and intricate mechanics that have captivated players for over two decades, from the 1997 original to the latest installment, Armored Core VI.
In conclusion, Secret Level serves as a unique bridge between the established Armored Core universe and a broader audience. It is an experiment in storytelling that, while not without its limitations, successfully captures the visceral thrill and gritty atmosphere of the franchise. The insights provided by Peter Watts, the author of the original story, enrich the viewing experience, offering a glimpse behind the curtain of the creative process and highlighting the challenges and opportunities inherent in adapting a beloved game series for a new medium. While the short film could have benefited from a longer runtime and a deeper exploration of its narrative potential, it remains a noteworthy addition to the Armored Core legacy, demonstrating the enduring appeal of its themes and world. Ultimately, Secret Level stands as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration, bringing together diverse talents to create a unique and evocative experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
