Between 2011 and 2019, it was nearly impossible to encounter anyone who was unaware of the phenomenal fantasy television series <em>Game of Thrones</em>. Broadcasted on HBO, the show captivated audiences with its grandiose battle scenes and the palpable tension woven between its characters. Game of Thrones has fundamentally shaped modern fantasy fiction on television, and the reasons for this are abundantly clear.
Adapted from the highly influential fantasy book series A Song of Ice and Fire penned by George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones thrived largely due to its exceptional source material. The adaptation drew from rich high fantasy novels, establishing a robust framework for intricate world-building and multifaceted relational and political dynamics.
While Game of Thrones may not be a flawless fantasy series from start to finish, its monumental impact on the genre and the revival of interest in fantasy it ignited is undeniable. Every series that has debuted following GOT has taken cues from its innovative genre-blending approach and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences beyond just the traditional fantasy fanbase.
6 The Witcher (2019–Present)
The Heroes of The Witcher Would Seamlessly Integrate Into the Game of Thrones Universe
In the initial three seasons of Netflix’s adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski’s fantasy series The Witcher, Henry Cavill takes on the role of Geralt of Rivia, the main character and a formidable warrior. Similar to Game of Thrones, The Witcher features a plethora of strong fighters and astute political strategists, as Geralt finds himself ensnared in a plot far beyond his usual mercenary engagements when he encounters Ciri and Yennefer.
Readers of the original books may find certain aspects of this adaptation of The Witcher to be lacking, as it modifies several elements for a more television-friendly format, aligning it with the fantasy archetype that Game of Thrones established. Nevertheless, this transformation isn’t inherently negative; Geralt embodies the archetype of the brooding hero that audiences have come to adore, and The Witcher expands beyond just his character development.
It’s going to feel strange watching The Witcher without Cavill, as Liam Hemsworth is set to take over the role beginning in season 4.
It will certainly be peculiar watching The Witcher without Cavill in the lead, given that Liam Hemsworth will step into the role starting from season 4. However, the groundwork has been effectively set for The Witcher to conclude successfully as the series wraps up. The show is slated to end after season 5, but this is a conscious decision aimed at providing viewers with the closure they deserve (as reported by Variety).
|
Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Witcher (2019–Present) |
80% |
54% |
The Witcher
6/10
- Release Date
- December 20, 2019
- Network
- Netflix
Anya Chalotra
Yennefer of Vengerberg
5 The Magicians (2015–2020)
Exploring the Magical Academy and Fantastical Worlds: Surprising Commonalities with GOT
At first glance, it may seem that there are more disparities than similarities between GOT and The Magicians, which unfolds in the context of a modern magic school. However, The Magicians debuted just a few years after GOT ignited the fantasy renaissance, and the influence of the medieval-themed series is palpable throughout The Magicians.
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The Magicians and Game of Thrones approach fantasy tropes in different manners, but both series delight in subverting audience expectations. The characters in The Magicians are youthful and often more innocent compared to those in GOT, yet they also endure significant losses and challenges, akin to the struggles faced by characters in GOT, who are constantly forced to adapt to shifting realities.
Although it may not reach the graphic intensity of Game of Thrones, The Magicians can delve deep into serious themes when necessary, while also displaying a keen awareness of when to incorporate humor. The journey of the students at Brakebills magic school unfolds as one of the most captivating experiences that fantasy enthusiasts can embark upon.
|
Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Magicians (2015–2020) |
91% |
74% |
The Magicians
8/10
- Release Date
- 2015 – 2020-00-00
Olivia Taylor Dudley
Alice Quinn
Jason Ralph
Quentin Coldwater
4 His Dark Materials (2019–2022)
An Iconic Fantasy Adaptation That Successfully Completed Its Vision
In 2019, Philip Pullman’s groundbreaking series finally received the adaptation it deserved, thanks to HBO’s commitment to presenting it as a visually stunning television series. Following the disappointment of the film adaptation, The Golden Compass, released in 2007, it was essential to do justice to Lyra’s story, as it addresses pivotal themes of coming-of-age, identity, religion, and resistance against oppressive regimes.
For viewers who are not quite ready to delve into Game of Thrones but still seek a narrative that is equally rich and layered, with profound themes, His Dark Materials is the perfect choice.
His Dark Materials is a fantasy series that caters beautifully to young adults, filling a significant niche amidst the plethora of graphic and violent content prevalent in the genre today. For those who may not be ready for the intensity of Game of Thrones yet desire a deep and complex narrative, His Dark Materials serves as an ideal alternative.
In today’s landscape, it is not uncommon for fantasy series to face cancellation before they can fully develop their narratives. However, this fate did not befall His Dark Materials or Game of Thrones. Both series were afforded the opportunity to expand their character arcs and explore the most captivating aspects of their respective worlds, reflecting a commitment to narrative depth that resonates throughout the quality of these productions.
|
Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
His Dark Materials (2019–2022) |
84% |
82% |
3 The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power (2022–Present)
How The Lord Of The Rings Remains The Foundational Influence for Modern Fantasy
Although The Rings of Power does not strictly adhere to J.R.R. Tolkien’s original narrative, as some adaptations of the original trilogy do, it still offers an enjoyable fantasy adventure for audiences to immerse themselves in. Set during the Second Age, it chronicles Sauron’s rise to power and the forging of the titular rings, while also highlighting the journey of the young Galadriel.
Reactions to The Rings of Power have been mixed, particularly regarding the liberties taken with the timeline and lore of the LOTR universe. Nevertheless, the series presents a visual spectacle, consistently delivering on set and character design, as well as immersive world-building, all while drawing on an extensive reservoir of exceptional source material.
There is no denying that George R.R. Martin drew inspiration from Tolkien’s work while crafting Game of Thrones, as every subsequent high fantasy narrative has been influenced by the original trilogy. However, the connection between The Rings of Power and GOT goes deeper than mere genre similarity; the new series debuted following the conclusion of GOT, fostering a dialogue between the two shows.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (2022–Present) |
2 The Wheel Of Time (2021–2025)
The Infamous Cancellation of This Fantasy Series Will Be Remembered
Based on the critically acclaimed book series by Robert Jordan, the legendary saga of The Wheel of Time finally found its footing on Prime Video, albeit for a brief yet impactful run. With a detailed world and intricately developed characters who harbor secret motivations and loyalties, there exists a profound connection between the legacy of The Wheel of Time and Game of Thrones.
The cancellation of The Wheel of Time after its third season was a significant setback for the fantasy community, adding to the long list of speculative fiction shows that have been prematurely cut short, despite their immense potential. While the show had its shortcomings, by season 3, it had truly found its stride and was delivering some of the most thrilling arcs from the books.
GOT played a pivotal role in revitalizing the fantasy genre, but it also established an elevated standard that few series can match.
While it was likely the immense success of Game of Thrones that paved the way for The Wheel of Time to be adapted, it might have also been the inability of the latter to achieve the same cultural resonance that contributed to its cancellation. GOT significantly bolstered the popularity of fantasy, but it also set a benchmark that remains challenging for many shows to reach.
|
Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Wheel of Time (2021–2025) |
88% |
76% |
1 House Of The Dragon (2022–Present)
House of the Dragon: The Closest We’ve Come to a True GOT Sequel
Throughout the span of Game of Thrones, viewers frequently hear about the legendary House Targaryen, a family known for its immense power yet marred by internal strife that led to their ultimate downfall. In the highly anticipated and somewhat controversial prequel series, House of the Dragon, the narrative of the Dance of the Dragons, as outlined in the book Fire & Blood, is vividly brought to life.
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