Spartacus: Gods of the Arena is a six-episode 2011 prequel miniseries to Blood and Sand , detailing the rise of the House of Batiatus and the origin of gladiators like Gannicus and Crixus. Produced during a hiatus in the main series, it focuses on Quintus Batiatus's ruthless maneuvers to establish his legacy in Capua. Learn more about the production at TV Guide .