House of the Dragon – the epic Game of Thrones prequel based on George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood – is here. But, while we wait for the next episode, what better way to re-immerse yourself into Westeros than to rewatch some of Game of Thrones’ best episodes?
Though later seasons – and particularly Season 8 – received mixed reviews, it’s worth remembering how incredible Game of Thrones was at its best. It wasn’t just the action set pieces, the dragons, the zombies, that made it one of the most successful shows of all time. It was the writing, the fully fleshed out characters, and the brutal twists and turns of the plot.
So, without further ado, these are the 10 most highly rated episodes of Game of Thrones, according to their rankings on IMDB.
9. The Lion and the Rose
The Lion of the Rose (Season 4, Episode 2) centres on the royal wedding of one of TV's greatest villains, Joffrey Baratheon, to one of the realm's greatest manipulators, Margaery Tyrell. Sadly everything doesn't work out as planned. Worth a rewatch to see what characters in the background are up to. IMDB rating: 9.7. Photo: HBO
10. The Children
The Children is the Season 4 finale which majorly develops the series' key plotlines and culminates with a hugely powerful character's death. Highlights include Brienne of Tarth's encounter with The Hound, Bran finally meeting the Three-Eyed Raven, Arya setting sail to Braavos, and Tyrion's escape from the dungeons of King's Landing. IMDB Rating: 9.6. Photo: HBO