Very few fantasy television series have left an indelible mark on popular culture like Game of Thrones, which is adapted from George R. R. Martin‘s epic series, A Song of Ice and Fire—a narrative that may remain incomplete. Viewers became enchanted by its intricate tapestry of shifting alliances, political intrigue, and underlying magical threats that loomed ominously throughout the storyline. Despite the mixed reactions to the show’s final season, numerous new fantasy series continue to attempt to replicate the success of its earlier seasons by weaving their own elaborate narratives filled with conspiracies and multifaceted characters, yielding varying results.
The exceptional writing in Game of Thrones led to groundbreaking episodes that shaped television history, showcasing moments of shock and awe in episodes like “Baelor” and “The Rains of Castamere,” as well as the catastrophic events in “Blackwater” and “The Winds of Winter.” Due to the high standards set by these episodes, many other installments featuring captivating plots, stunning visuals, and remarkable character arcs often go unnoticed, despite their own merits.
10
“The Queen’s Justice”
Season 7, Episode 3 (2017)
In this gripping episode, the newly appointed King in the North, Jon Snow (Kit Harington), embarks on a journey to the island of Dragonstone, where he meets Queen Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke). His objective is to seek her assistance in the impending battle against the White Walkers. However, the conflict with Queen Cersei Lannister (Leana Headey) is not progressing favorably: Ellaria Sand (Indira Varma) has been captured by Euron Greyjoy (Pilou Asbæk), and Tyrion Lannister’s (Peter Dinklage) strategic plan to seize Casterly Rock results in the downfall of Highgarden and the tragic demise of Olenna Tyrell (Dame Diana Rigg). Meanwhile, in the North, Sansa Stark (Sophie Turner) experiences a heartfelt reunion with her younger brother, Bran (Isaac Hempstead Wright).
Although Bran’s unsettling revelation about witnessing Sansa on her wedding night is jarring, “The Queen’s Justice” offers some of the most captivating character dynamics in Season 7. The exchanges between Jon and Daenerys are everything fans anticipated, as Daenerys’ sense of entitlement collides with Jon’s focus on the larger implications of their actions, leading to a precarious standoff to determine who will yield first. Yet, the episode’s true highlight is Olenna: Rigg delivers a powerful farewell performance as the Queen of Thorns, and her candid admission regarding her involvement in Joffrey Baratheon’s (Jack Gleeson) murder allows her to exit the series without suffering from character degradation.
9
“Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things”
Season 1, Episode 4 (2011)
During the Hand’s Tourney organized by King Robert Baratheon (Mark Addy), a lavish celebration is held to honor Eddard Stark (Sean Bean) for becoming the newly appointed Hand of the King. Eddard diligently investigates the mysterious murder of his predecessor and foster father, Jon Arryn (John Standing). In the meantime, Jon Snow forges a new friendship with Samwell Tarly (John Bradley), while Catelyn Stark (Michelle Fairley) takes a significant risk when she encounters Tyrion on the road. On the other side of the Narrow Sea, Daenerys confronts her increasingly frustrated brother, Viserys (Harry Lloyd), who is growing impatient as her husband, Khal Drogo (Jason Momoa), has yet to provide him with an army.
“Cripples, Bastards, and Broken Things” serves as an excellent illustration of a foundational episode. It effectively sets the stage for future developments, such as Daenerys rising above Viserys’ abuse and Catelyn’s daring capture of Tyrion, all framed in a manner that excites the audience about the potential outcomes. Additionally, Sam’s introduction marks the beginning of a powerful friendship with Jon, while the Hand’s Tourney presents a brief yet impactful introduction to Gregor Clegane (Conan Stevens, Ian Whyte, and Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson).
8
“The Wolf and the Lion”
Season 1, Episode 5 (2011)
As the Hand’s Tourney escalates into a violent showdown, the news of Daenerys’ pregnancy reaches King Robert, prompting him to order her assassination to prevent any potential invasion. In protest, Eddard resigns from his position as Hand of the King but chooses to remain in King’s Landing to continue unraveling the mystery behind Jon Arryn’s murder. Simultaneously, he must also navigate the consequences of his wife’s decisions, which lead her to take Tyrion to her sister, Lysa Arryn (Kate Dickie).
“The Wolf and the Lion” is predominantly set in King’s Landing, immersing viewers in the intricate political machinations of the city, albeit sacrificing geographical diversity. Action is present, featuring the first clash between the Clegane brothers and Eddard’s brief duel with Jaime Lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), culminating in a tense mountain ambush that introduces Tyrion and Bronn (Jerome Flynn) for the first time. However, the standout moments belong to the Baratheon family. Robert’s poignant conversation with Eddard following his resignation explores themes of war and marital strife, while his brother Renly’s (Gethin Anthony) discussion with his lover, Loras Tyrell (Finn Jones), plants the seeds for future ambitions.
7
“Second Sons”
Season 3, Episode 8 (2013)
Outside the formidable gates of Yunkai, Daenerys makes a pivotal meeting with the captains of the Second Sons, aiming to persuade them to ally with her cause. Meanwhile, in Westeros, Tyrion and Sansa are compelled to marry to solidify Lannister control over Winterfell. Stannis Baratheon (Stephen Dilane) reinstates Ser Davos Seaworth (Liam Cunningham) as his Hand of the King, while Sandor Clegane (Rory McCann) transports Arya Stark (Maisie Williams) to the Twins, seeking to ransom her to her brother, King Robb (Richard Madden). In a chilling event north of the Wall, Sam and Gilly (Hannah Murray) face an attack from a White Walker, leading to a significant revelation.
The centerpiece of “Second Sons” is the intricate Lannister wedding, during which Dinklage delivers yet another outstanding performance as Tyrion. His public threats to Joffrey regarding Sansa’s undressing and his insistence on consent exemplify Tyrion’s noble character, even in dark times. Additionally, the interaction between Stannis and Davos beautifully underscores Stannis’ unyielding sense of duty as king, while Davos’ loyalty shines through, even in the presence of Melisandre (Carice van Houten). The climactic moment with Sam and the White Walker not only unveils crucial lore on defeating them but also marks Sam’s evolution from a timid coward to a courageous brother of the Night’s Watch.
6
“Walk of Punishment”
Season 3, Episode 3 (2013)
As the war momentarily pauses, King Robb journeys to Riverrun to pay his respects at his grandfather’s funeral and devise his next strategy. Tywin Lannister (Charles Dance) sends Petyr Baelish (Aidan Gillen) to marry Lysa Arryn, while Tyrion is appointed as the new Master of Coin. Meanwhile, Mance Rayder (Ciarán Hinds) dispatches Jon with a group of Wildlings to scale the Wall, Daenerys sets her sights on acquiring an army of Unsullied, and Jaime risks everything to protect Brienne of Tarth (Gwendoline Christie) from Roose Bolton’s (Michael McElhatton) men.
“Walk of Punishment” may lack in action, but it compensates with unexpected twists and crucial setups for future storylines. The setting of Riverrun introduces new characters while highlighting Robb’s dire situation following the Battle of the Blackwater, while Astapor showcases Daenerys’ initial political maneuvering with arrogant slavers and foreshadows her transformation into a liberator. The Small Council scene is a brilliant example of nonverbal storytelling, revealing much about each character based on their seating arrangements next to Tywin. However, the episode’s highlight occurs at its conclusion, where Jaime takes significant steps toward self-improvement—albeit at a substantial cost.
5
“The Bear and the Maiden Fair”
Season 3, Episode 7 (2013)
As Jon continues his journey south with Tormund (Kristofer Hivju) and Ygritte’s (Rose Leslie) warband, Bran persists in his quest northward to locate the elusive Three-Eyed Raven (Struan Rodger and Max von Sydow). Meanwhile, Robb heads to the Twins to marry his uncle, Edmure Tully (Tobias Menzies), to Roslin Frey (Alexandra Dowling), while Joffrey confronts Tywin regarding rumors surrounding Daenerys’s dragons as she approaches the city of Yunkai. Roose sends some of his men to escort Jaime back to King’s Landing, but Jaime chooses to rescue Brienne from Locke (Noah Taylor), who has thrown her into a pit with an enraged grizzly bear (Bart the Bear 2).
“The Bear and the Maiden Fair” is the third episode crafted by Martin, showcasing sharp dialogue and significant character development. The exchange between Tywin and Joffrey highlights Tywin’s unwavering control through strategic language and subtle details, such as their ascent to the Iron Throne. Meanwhile, Bran’s storyline features his Wildling companion, Osha (Natalia Tena), sharing her tragic backstory, which underscores the high stakes if the White Walkers prevail. The crowning achievement of this episode, however, lies within Jaime’s journey, as he takes a selfless risk, drawing closer to the valorous knight he aspires to be. The special effects during the climax seamlessly blend footage from various locations, creating the illusion that the actors are genuinely in a pit with a live bear.
4
“Mockingbird”
Season 4, Episode 7 (2014)
After demanding a trial by combat to prove his innocence in the murder of Joffrey, Tyrion learns that Cersei has selected Ser Gregor to be the crown’s champion, leaving few willing to face him. Meanwhile, in the Riverlands, Arya and Sandor traverse the ravaged countryside, while Brienne, accompanied by her new squire, Podrick Payne (Daniel Portman), is in pursuit. In the Eyrie, Petyr kisses Sansa, triggering a furious outburst from Lysa as her jealousy ignites a dangerous confrontation with her own niece.
“Mockingbird” is enveloped in a grim atmosphere, casting a shadow over nearly every storyline. The hopelessness of Tyrion’s plight is palpable as he loses his last few allies, particularly Bronn, culminating in a poignant moment of understanding between the two men, though neither is truly satisfied with the outcome. This tension enhances the final scene with Prince Oberyn Martell (Pedro Pascal), who emerges as both a metaphorical and physical light in the darkness, restoring Tyrion’s spirits. Meanwhile, Lysa’s violent reaction toward Sansa starkly contrasts with the Tully family motto of “family, duty, honor,” leading to one of Game of Thrones‘ most unforgettable betrayals, orchestrated by Littlefinger.
3
“Two Swords”
Season 4, Episode 1 (2014)
On the eve of Joffrey’s wedding to Margaery Tyrell (Natalie Dormer), Tywin melts down Eddard’s Valyrian Steel greatsword, Ice, to forge two new blades for House Lannister. While he presents one to Jaime, Tyrion warmly welcomes Prince Oberyn to the city. Meanwhile, Sansa forges a new alliance. Elsewhere, Jon attempts to convince the Night’s Watch of his time spent with the Wildlings, asserting it was for the purpose of espionage, and Sandor along with Arya have a chaotic experience trying to procure chicken for their meal.
“Two Swords” serves as a spectacular opening to Season 4, effectively reminding the audience of past events while introducing new characters. The sequence of Ice being melted reinforces House Lannister’s peak power and serves as a final affront to Eddard’s legacy. Oberyn’s introduction quickly made him a fan favorite, capturing his passionate yet unpredictable nature perfectly. Arya and Sandor’s storyline intensifies as they find themselves embroiled in a brutal tavern brawl, culminating in Arya reclaiming her beloved sword, Needle, marking a significant step on her path toward becoming an assassin.
2
“The Old Gods and the New”
Season 2, Episode 6 (2012)
While Robb engages in battles against the Lannisters in the south, Theon Greyjoy (Alfie Allen) seizes Winterfell, sacrificing the respect of those he once called friends. In Harrenhal, Arya navigates her perilous position as Tywin’s cupbearer while secretly collaborating with Jaqen H’ghar (Tom Wlaschiha), as tensions escalate in King’s Landing, culminating in a full-blown riot. Beyond the Wall, Jon encounters a young Wildling named Ygritte, and after hesitating to kill her, he becomes separated from the rest of the Night’s Watch.
“The Old Gods and the New” centers around escalating tensions and the characters’ reactions to them. The riots present a chaotic storm of violence and disorder, yet moments of levity arise, such as Tyrion’s slap to Joffrey, and kindness is showcased through Sandor’s protection of Sansa. Jon’s first encounter with Ygritte marks the beginning of a process to humanize the Wildlings, while Robb’s war camp allows him to grow closer to Lady Talisa (Oona Chaplin) and sets the stage for Ramsay Bolton (Iwan Rheon) when Roose offers his son the chance to reclaim Winterfell. Notably, Winterfell is the backdrop for one of the most powerful character dramas, as Theon makes a grave choice by killing Ser Rodrik Cassel (Ron Donachie) to send a chilling message to his men and the people of Winterfell. Allen’s nonverbal performance captures the turmoil within Theon, while Wright’s emotionally charged scream conveys profound agony and heartbreak.
1
“Kissed by Fire”
Season 3, Episode 5 (2013)
As Jon travels with the Wildlings, Ygritte cleverly lures him into a secluded cave, testing his commitment and challenging his vow of celibacy. Back in King’s Landing, Tywin devises a cunning plan to use his children as pawns to thwart the Tyrells’ ambitions, while in Riverrun, Robb faces a difficult decision regarding one of his rebellious lords. Jaime and Brienne find themselves imprisoned in Harrenhal, where Jaime reveals a shocking confession about his past actions, and Sandor Clegane engages in a fierce battle against Ser Beric Dondarrion (Richard Dormer), the leader of the Brotherhood Without Banners.
“Kissed by Fire” encapsulates the essence of the series, offering a blend of compelling character-driven drama and electrifying action. The duel between Sandor and Beric stands out as one of the show’s most intense confrontations, amplified by Beric’s flaming sword and McCann’s portrayal of Sandor’s fear. The evolving relationship between Jon and Ygritte hints at an inevitable tragedy, while Robb’s dilemma reinforces the harsh truth that winning battles does not guarantee victory in the larger conflict. However, the highlight of dramatic storytelling comes from Jaime’s heartfelt confession to Brienne, revealing the truth behind his actions in the murder of Aerys II Targaryen (David Rintoul). Waldau’s performance as a man on the edge of desperation, combined with the gripping dialogue, highlights that Game of Thrones thrived on its character moments rather than merely its dragons or grand battles.
