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[MrHiTech]

The idea behind this card is that you have a secret card that no one will know about until you use it. Also note that randomizer cards have different backs so other players will be able to tell when you have a card from Secret Breakthrough in your hand, even if they won't be able to tell what it is.

[Jack Rudd]

I reveal a Duchess and you reveal a Prince, yay.

[MrHiTech]

That's fair. It is a bit too swingy.

[Timinou]

It’s probably overpriced too, since the average card cost is below $5.

[gambit05]

I think the problems mentioned can be easily avoided by adding only certain cards to the Secret pile, e.g. only $5 cost cards, or cards costing at least $5. Or the same for $4 cost cards and Secret Breakthrough costs less. One could also include a gambling factor, e.g. 1/3 $3, 1/3 $4, 1/3 $5 cost cards with Secret Breakthrough at $4.

I've done similar cards (not Events), but with custom cards in the pile. The fun starts when you add some real surprise cards to the pile, like hot potatoes changing owners after play and giving -VP or +VP; or Pasture-type cards that can influence strategies a bit. It's fun, at least for players who don't take the game too serious.

Edit: I think you don't need "You need not show...".

[Timinou]

I think customizing the pile would be an improvement (e.g. include only Attacks/Reactions or other interactive cards like Masquerade).  Otherwise, I don't think there would be much benefit in keeping the gained card secret, since the majority of cards in the game probably won't have an impact on how your opponents play.

[GendoIkari]

In general, keeping it secret doesn't impact the card at all; because it's only secret until the first time you draw it. And as Timinou said, your opponent isn't going to do something different based on them knowing what you got or not. Even if it was an attack or Masquerade; there's generally not a lot they your opponent can do to respond/change. I suppose if you got a Possession then they could choose to not buy a Masquerade or Ambassador.

VP cards are where the secrecy matters, though. If you picked up a VP card; then your opponent won't know until the end of the game. I think that adds a neat element of uncertainty where your opponent can't track if they're winning or not.