Arnold Schwarzenegger takes on the role of King Aelstrom in Secret Level Episode 3, titled “Once And Future King.” This animated short dives into the backstory of Aelstrom, a once-proud monarch turned NPC (non-playable character) in the MMO New World.
Schwarzenegger’s portrayal is a perfect blend of comedy and gravitas, bringing depth to a character who is both hilariously pompous and surprisingly endearing.
King Aelstrom begins as an ambitious ruler who seeks to claim the mystical island of Aeternum. However, his journey is riddled with darkly comedic failures. The island’s supernatural properties ensure that no one truly dies, forcing Aelstrom to relive his defeats over and over.
This endless cycle of resurrection mirrors the mechanics of the New World game, where players can respawn thanks to the magical substance Azoth.
Aelstrom’s repeated failures highlight his arrogance and stubbornness, but they also set the stage for unexpected character growth. Schwarzenegger’s commanding voice adds charm and humor, making the king’s missteps both entertaining and relatable.
The corruption arc
A major turning point in the episode is Aelstrom’s encounter with Corruption, a dangerous side effect of the island’s Azoth-based power. Corruption amplifies negative traits and grants enhanced abilities, turning Aelstrom into a fearsome warrior.
However, in a clever twist, his newfound strength proves ineffective. Despite his intimidating appearance, Aelstrom is unable to achieve his goals, underscoring the futility of his blind ambition.
In the New World game, Aelstrom is a minor NPC who provides tutorial objectives to new players. His dialogue reveals that he is a former king exiled from the city of Prydwen. The episode serves as a prequel, showing how his younger self ended up in this role. It also hints at his eventual acceptance of his new purpose, blending humor with a touch of poignancy.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s performance breathes life into King Aelstrom, making him one of the standout characters in Secret Level. His ability to balance comedic timing with moments of genuine emotion elevates the story. Whether Aelstrom is delivering arrogant boasts or struggling with his failures, Schwarzenegger’s voice adds a unique flavor to the character.
From his ambitious beginnings to his humorous failures, Aelstrom’s journey is both entertaining and reflective of the episode’s clever blend of comedy and fantasy.
About Secret Level
Tim Miller, the mastermind behind Love, Death & Robots, brings his signature style to Secret Level, a series of animated shorts inspired by popular video games. Each episode is a self-contained story, exploring unique worlds and characters. What sets this series apart is its ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments, making it much more than just a tribute to gaming culture.
Aelstrom, a self-proclaimed conqueror, sets out to claim Aeternum. However, his ambition leads to countless comical deaths at the hands of unseen forces. Through his failures, we meet King Zimah, the true ruler of Aeternum. Zimah’s calm and capable demeanor contrasts sharply with Aelstrom’s over-the-top antics, creating a dynamic that’s both entertaining and meaningful.
Zimah, the son of a cobbler, is everything Aelstrom isn’t: skilled, wise, and respected. His mastery of Aeternum’s challenges showcases the island’s potential for growth, contrasting with Aelstrom’s repeated failures. Zimah’s leadership is a testament to the idea that true strength comes from humility and perseverance.
Beneath the humor lies a deeper message about ambition, failure, and self-discovery. Aelstrom’s journey reminds us that even the most stubborn individuals can grow when faced with enough setbacks.
The episode’s dark comedy also serves as a clever commentary on the endless respawns in video games, turning a frustrating mechanic into a narrative strength.
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Fans of New World will recognize plenty of nods to the game’s lore, from the mystical Azoth to the ever-present threat of Corruption. The factions, Covenant, Marauders, and Syndicate, are hinted at, adding layers for players familiar with the game. Even the castle of Prydwen ties back to Aelstrom’s in-game role, grounding the episode in its source material.
“Once And Future King” isn’t just another video game adaptation; it’s a fresh take on fantasy storytelling. By mixing comedy with heartfelt moments, the episode subverts expectations and delivers a surprisingly emotional ending. It’s a testament to how Secret Level continues to push the boundaries of animated anthologies.
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