3 Underrated Game of Thrones Episodes That Should Be Considered Masterpieces

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Game of Thrones stands out as a series that delivered some of the most monumental and critically acclaimed episodes in TV history. While personal preferences vary, a general agreement on the top episodes often highlights titles such as “The Rains of Castmere,” “The Winds of Winter,” “Hardhome,” and “Blackwater.” Notably, the battle scenes have garnered significant attention. These pivotal moments catapulted Thrones into a cultural phenomenon, with scenes that sparked viral discussions, left audiences in awe, and touched our emotions deeply. They continue to influence the boundaries of TV storytelling, a legacy still felt today.

Despite popular belief, “Game of Thrones” was not just about shocking scenes and stunning visuals. The episodes in between played a crucial role, gradually developing to those iconic events, establishing major plot twists, and creating emotional connections with characters we either loved or loathed. In its quieter moments, the show truly shined, albeit these less-celebrated episodes often go unnoticed. There are several instances that could be seen as undervalued (for this discussion, I focused on those rated below 9.0 on IMDb, given that nearly 40% of the series’ episodes reached such a high score). A few of these installments deserve significantly higher ratings.

3) Season 1, Episode 1, “Winter is Coming”

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

Generally speaking, the initial episode of a series often isn’t its best. There’s still a lot being worked out, and shows need time to develop and reach their full potential. This is somewhat true for Game of Thrones, but its first episode stands out as an exceptional accomplishment due to all it had to cover. Not only did it have to establish the medieval fantasy world, introduce various locations, set up the settings, convey the stakes and history, and lay the groundwork for future developments, but it also managed to do so effectively.

In simpler terms, Game of Thrones showcases a variety of characters spread across numerous settings, such as the Wall, King’s Landing, and Pentos beyond the Narrow Sea. It involves men being slain by ice creatures resembling zombies, dragon eggs hatching, and incestuous relationships. The series boasts a multitude of names that can be overwhelming for newcomers. It is characterized by intricate backstories and lore that can be dense. Given its complexities, one might think it wouldn’t succeed. In fact, the initial version of the pilot was almost entirely re-filmed due to its poor quality, and will never air publicly as a result.

Despite initial doubts, everything cohesively unfolds in an engaging manner. The narratives are captivating, while the characters are complex and intriguing. It offers a clear distinction between good and evil players, yet leaves room for unanswered questions. There are unexpected turns, impressive acting, and abundant suspense that keeps viewers on their toes. In essence, this episode draws you in completely, capturing much of what we cherish about the series within a brilliant opening hour. Thus, after this introduction, who wouldn’t be eager to witness seven or eight more seasons featuring Sean Bean as the noble Ned Stark?

2) Season 8, Episode 2, “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms”

IMDb Rating: 7.9/10

Indeed, the final season of “Game of Thrones” received considerable criticism. The last few episodes, particularly the series finale titled “The Iron Throne,” ignited a significant online outcry that almost tarnished the show’s overall reputation. Even six years later, it remains a common example of a TV series with an unsatisfying ending. Twists like Bran becoming king and Daenerys Targaryen turning into a villain have been relentlessly ridiculed and criticized. However, before the criticism set in, there was a brief period of tranquility that made it feel as though we were watching the original “Game of Thrones” once more. This period was during the episode titled “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.

Among the series’ finest episodes, this one stands out as it takes place just before a significant battle, yet it’s not the battle itself that makes it exceptional. Instead, it focuses on our heroes coming together at Winterfell in preparation for the impending White Walkers’ attack. This gathering involved sharing drinks, exchanging jokes, recounting war tales, and so forth. This show is known for its powerful scenes occurring in dimly lit rooms, and this episode does not disappoint with its abundance of such scenes. Unfortunately, the later seasons of Game of Thrones lacked due to being overly focused on plot development, rushing through major storylines. However, this episode excels by slowing down the pace and allowing the characters to take center stage.

in Podrick Payne’s moving performance of “Jenny of Oldstones”, in the group storytelling session by Tormund, Tyrion, and others, in Jon Snow’s revelation to Daenerys, in Samwell Tarly’s gift to Jorah Mormont, and many other moments. However, the most poignant moment might be Jaime Lannister knighting Brienne of Tarth, a moment that encapsulates the essence of the series beautifully. Although it’s not the final episode, this hour feels like a heartfelt farewell to the characters and the show we cherish, and it does so in a deeply moving way.

1) Season 3, Episode 5, “Kissed By Fire”

IMDb Rating: 8.9/10

Similar to ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,’ ‘Kissed By Fire’ is another exceptional episode penned by Bryan Cogman. In my opinion, it doesn’t just escape underappreciation, but ranks among the show’s top five episodes. It offers a depth of character development and lore that rivals the Iron Bank. This is an installment where we delve deeper into the complexities and layers of these characters, discovering aspects previously unseen. History, as we know it, doesn’t always tell the whole story about what truly transpired.

Once more, there’s an abundance of beautifully executed smaller scenes throughout this episode. We encounter Shireen Baratheon, a character who sadly meets a tragic end by fire when she is burned at the stake later on. This segment underscores the existence of good and innocent souls in this harsh world. In King’s Landing, we witness some characteristic power plays by Tywin Lannister and Littlefinger. At Riverrun, Robb Stark makes a choice that will significantly impact his future, as he chooses to assault Casterly Rock and seek the aid of the Freys. These scenes demonstrate exceptional character development and advancement of the series’ narrative plotlines.

Beyond the Wall, Jon Snow shares an intense, emotional moment with Ygritte, which is one of the most memorable and tragic romantic scenes in the show. Meanwhile, Sandor Clegane and Beric Dondarrion engage in a fierce, symbolic sword fight elsewhere.

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Despite its importance, nothing compares to the show’s most impactful scene: Jaime confessing to Brienne about slaying the Mad King while in a bath. This emotionally charged scene, superbly acted by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, is a prime example of character development that offers fresh insights into both the past and present. It embodies the series’ finest moments, featuring a complex antagonist, a mix of tragedy and redemption, and unusual alliances, making it a standout scene in the entire series.

All eight seasons of Game of Thrones are available to stream on HBO Max.

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2025-09-10 20:42