The 6 best (and 5 worst) episodes of Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones “The Iron Throne” (Season 8, episode 6)

You knew this one was coming. While the final season of Game of Thrones as a whole is disappointing, the final episode is actually straight-up bad. After Daenerys decides to burn down King’s Landing in the penultimate episode, “The Iron Throne” sees the character meet her fate and the realm choose a new ruler. The episode is written and directed by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss.

First off, there are too many loose ends to tie up leading into the finale, which only leaves plot holes in the end. In addition, viewers (myself included) were still feeling burned from the change in Daenerys’ character and were just unhappy with the series by the time “The Iron Throne” came out. And unfortunately, the finale did not make us feel better. After Jon Snow kills Dany, he’s exiled to the Night’s Watch, a conclusion not fit for his character. Bran Stark is named the king, which is an underwhelming choice.

The whole episode feels awkward, like we’re watching a sketch comedy show except they’re trying to be serious. It’s cringe-worthy. What a shame.

Verdict: WORST

Game of Thrones “Hardhome” (Season 5, episode 8)

Another one written by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss and directed by Miguel Sapochnik on the list is “Hardhome,” featuring an awesome battle involving Jon Snow. Now being targeted by the White Walkers, Jon manages to get the Night’s Watch and the Wildlings to work together to take down their common enemy. The episode is action-packed and sets up a devastating plot point to come in the season 5 finale when Jon is killed by Olly and the Night’s Watch.

Elsewhere in “Hardhome,” other high points include Arya’s continued training in Braavos, Cersei still refusing to confess to her crimes, and Sansa finding out that her brothers Bran and Rickon are actually alive. It’s one of the most memorable episodes of Game of Thrones for its fast-paced action, character development, and reveals.

Verdict: BEST