Peter Watts on Shaping the Armored Core Story in Secret Level

Peter Watts, a celebrated science fiction author best known for his novel Blindsight, recently offered insights into his work on the “Armored Core” segment of the animated anthology series Secret Level, now available on Prime Video. Watts’s creative vision brought a fresh narrative layer to the Armored Core universe, which has long been beloved for its strategic gameplay and minimalist storytelling. Initially hired to write a story that directly tied into Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, Watts revealed that his original script included overt references to key game elements like Handler Walter and the enigmatic Coral. However, these connections were later scaled back, resulting in a more ambiguous narrative that still fits within the game’s timeline.

One intriguing detail Watts shared was the original name of the mecha piloted by Keanu Reeves’s character. Initially called CHICXULUB, a reference to the asteroid that caused the mass extinction of the dinosaurs, the name was ultimately changed to Shrieker for dialogue simplicity. While the revised name works better for the script, the original choice exemplifies Watts’s penchant for thoughtful and evocative naming. Such creative touches highlight the benefits of involving a seasoned author in crafting the narrative framework for a franchise steeped in rich, if understated, lore.

Watts also addressed a notable plot hole in the story. He questioned why the enemy pilots did not attempt to communicate their intentions to Reeves’s character, a recurring theme in the Armored Core games, including Fires of Rubicon. While such moments of dialogue often add depth and tension, the decision to omit them here prioritized visceral, action-packed visuals over narrative nuance. Watts acknowledged that the episode was designed as an eye-catching spectacle rather than a deeply layered story, a choice reflective of the priorities of Blur Studio, the animation team behind the segment.

Another fascinating aspect of Watts’s involvement is his engagement with fan discussions on platforms like Reddit, particularly the Armored Core subreddit. Watts admitted he wasn’t familiar with some of the series’ deep lore, such as the cockroach imagery referenced in Armored Core: Last Raven, but he appreciated learning about these connections through fan observations. This interaction underscores his openness and willingness to connect with the community, even as someone relatively new to the mecha genre.

Despite his unfamiliarity with mecha and gaming, Watts approached the project with respect and diligence, striving to honor the Armored Core universe. While he left the action sequences to the capable hands of Blur Studio, he focused on delivering a narrative that complemented the franchise’s themes. Fans and critics alike have noted his effort to balance creative storytelling with the demands of an established and highly technical world. Though some longtime fans wished for the involvement of renowned mecha designer Shoji Kawamori, many appreciated the attempt to tell a more explicit story within the franchise’s framework.

For many fans, the inclusion of an Armored Core episode in Secret Level represents a significant moment for the franchise. Since its debut in 1997, the series has garnered a loyal following, and the recent release of Fires of Rubicon has reignited interest. Watts’s episode, while not without its flaws, is a testament to the series’ ability to evolve and expand into new mediums, offering both newcomers and veterans a fresh perspective on its world.

While Watts admitted that the episode could have benefitted from a longer runtime and more resources, he expressed satisfaction with the final result. He described it as a decent attempt at capturing the essence of Armored Core in a narrative form, even if it leaned more heavily on spectacle than story. For fans, the episode serves as both a tribute to the franchise’s legacy and an exciting step forward, blending its hallmark elements with new storytelling possibilities.

Secret Level is currently streaming on Prime Video, offering a diverse mix of video game-inspired stories, including the Armored Core segment. Meanwhile, Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC, allowing players to immerse themselves in the tactical mecha combat that defines the series. Watts’s contribution to the project stands as a unique addition to the Armored Core lore, one that fans will likely revisit and discuss for years to come.