Game of Thrones. When you hear these words, you probably think of the heartbreaking deaths of major characters, the savage battle sequences, character development, and the ever-crossing plot lines that always keeps you thinking and on your toes. All of these elements, and many more, are what makes this fantasy show on HBO both popular and amazing. Luckily, we only have to wait less than 30 days until Season 8! Let’s recap some of the best moments and hand out some awards.
**WARNING: SPOILERS LIE AHEAD**
This post is strictly about the TV show based on George R.R. Martin’s series “A Song of Ice and Fire.” Though some of these superlatives may seem objective, some may have some math behind them. Check out the reasoning here.
1. Best Battle (major houses/groups against each other) – Battle of the Bastards
This battle wins not only because of the epic battle sequence itself, but also the emotional ties to it as Jon fights to win back his and Sansa’s home. With the help of a select other Northerners and Free Folk, he beats Ramsay Bolton, a vicious lunatic, and avenges his brother (cousin) Rickon’s death. We get great action from Tormund and shout out to the Knight’s of the Vale. RIP Wun-Wun though.
Honorable Mentions: Battle at Castle Black, Battle of the Blackwater, Hardhome
2. Most Memorable Death – Robb Stark
We were tricked and deceived, gooped and gagged by the death of Robb Stark (along with Talissa and Cat) at his uncle’s wedding. Many thought that this was going to be Robb’s story about how he avenged his father and became the King of the North. He crawls to his dead, pregnant wife’s body, stands up, looks at Catelyn, and says “Mother” as his finals words before he’s stabbed by Roose Bolton. Heart breaking.
Honorable Mentions: Ned Stark, Joffrey Baratheon, Oberyn Martell
3. Best Fight (1-on-1/small group) – The Mountain v. The Viper
With Tyrion Lannister’s life in his hand, Oberyn Martell has to fight The Mountain in battle by combat. Right when we think he successfully wins the battle, Oberyn toys with the Mountain, making him confess to his killing and r*ping of Elia Martell on Tywin Lannister’s orders. Then suddenly, he gets pulled down and his head crushed. So emotional and so graphic.
Honorable Mentions: Brienne of Tarth v. The Hound, Jon v. White Walker, Jorah in the Fighting Pits
4. Best Pals – Tyrion and Bronn
They both love women and wine. They’re smart and crass. They understand each other and they’re hilarious. With so many heavy storylines in this tale, Tyrion Lannister and Bronn’s friendship always makes me smile. Thank you.
Honorable Mentions: Jaime Lannister and Brienne of Tarth, Daenerys Targaryen and Missandei, Davos Seaworth and Shireen Baratheon
5. Most Inspiring Character Arc – Daenerys Targaryen
I ride for Daenerys Targaryen. Her entire family died (but not really) and now she’s the Mother of Dragons?! She has been savvy, confident, and stands for what is right. She is a true leader and an empathetic one at that. She is a queen for the people. She is a feminist icon.
Honorable Mentions: Sansa Stark, Arya Stark, Jaime Lannister
6. Most Extensive Plan – Varys “The Spider”
It was a close call between him and Littlefinger, to be honest. Varys has been batting for Daenerys ever since the beginning, and we had no idea (or at least didn’t pay close enough attention). He is able to be so powerful because of his network of spies and is always thinking of what’s best for the realm. He puts personal desires out of the way and is able to objectively make decisions that puts him in a good position. He’s under the radar and the one you least expect.
Honorable Mentions: Petyr “Littlefinger” Baelish, Tywin Lannister, Three-Eyed Raven
7. Biggest Plot Twist – Red Wedding
As mentioned earlier, Robb, Talissa, Catelyn Stark and all of their men were killed at a wedding (the Red Wedding, haha) and everyone was shook. Not only did the Frey’s break a very serious custom, Roose Bolton turned on the Starks and all the other bannermen and had them slayed. It was heartbreaking to see the young couple killed after talking about naming their unborn child after the murdered father that they’re at war to avenge. Also, they put Grey Wind’s head on Robb’s body. It’s absolutely unbearable.
Honorable Mentions: Light of the Seven, Hold the Door, Purple Wedding
8. Worst Character – Joffrey Baratheon
He’s literally the reason the War of the Five Kings started, he causes so much pain and misery, and he’s a straight up psychopath. He’s ruthless and a total brat. You just want to punch him. Luckily, he died one of the most satisfying deaths in Game of Thrones. You suck, Joffrey.
Honorable Mentions: Ramsay Bolton, Cersei Lannister, Walder Frey
9. Most Iconic Phrase – “The North Remembers”
After all the heartache and loss, “The North Remembers” shows that the Starks and fellow North men will always be there for one another. It’s a beacon of hope and connects people together around a common cause. It show’s beloved characters such as Sansa that she is not alone. It’s the best line.
Honorable Mentions: “The Night is Dark and Full of Terrors”, “Valar Morghulis ”, “You Know Nothing, Jon Snow”
10. Season 8’s Most Anticipated Plot Point: Jon Snow’s Parentage Reveal
Will Jon freak out that he just got it on with his aunt? How will the rest of the North take it? What will Sansa/Arya think? Will this affect his claim to rule? Will he still stay with Dany? Find out April 14th.
Honorable Mentions: Who Sits on the Iron Throne, Cersei Lannister’s Inevitable Death, The Night King’s Motivation