Game of Thrones has ended after a wait of 8 long years. Now, the ending of this iconic series might not be what everyone wanted but the series still encapsulates some of the best stories ever told. So it is only fair to remember the best Game of Thrones episodes to bid farewell to this masterful series.
The episodes mentioned here are mostly spoiler free, except for the minor ones. It also serves as a handy guide if you haven’t watched Game of Thrones yet and want to know what the series is all about.
We will include one episode per season to keep things simple. Furthermore, the list is based on mine and the perspective of my friends, meaning your list could be totally different. However, I do have a lot of different types of friends, so I think I can easily capture the general public opinion here.
Best Game Of Thrones Episodes
Season 1 Episode 1: Winter is Coming
I remember watching this episode when I was in 11th grade and it immediately changed my perspective of what a good fantasy drama series can be. The episode starts with strange Ice-Zombie-like beings killing two men while exhibiting even the slightest of primal emotions associated with hunting — hunger or anger. The creatures felt like something otherworldly and different from any kind of monster I had ever seen before. What followed later is character introductions, a scene that would be immortalized as a meme and explicit scenes. In this episode, Game of Thrones easily conveys what the series is all about. Needless to say, it is one of the best Game of Thrones episodes of all time.
Directed by: Tim Van Patten
Season 2 Episode 10: Valar Morghulis
By this time in the series, a lot of stuff has happened. Several people have died, a lot of people are in places where they don’t want to be and a lot more people are going to die. The episode solidifies the series’ nature of subverting fans’ expectations. The episode also sets the direction for Arya Stark and solidifies her as one of the key players in the series. The episode ends on a high note, leaving viewers with a number of questions and a lot fewer answers. All in all, “Valar Morghulis” stands by its literal meaning of “All men must die.”
Directed by: Alan Taylor
Season 3 Episode 9: The Rains of Castamere
Honestly, I would have chosen the last episode in the series but I want the viewers to witness the brutality of this show first hand. This episode introduces one of the most hated characters in the series. However, it only makes the conclusion that this villain will leave fans wanting more from the show. It is one of the heartbreaking or the best Game of Thrones episodes depending upon who you ask for.
Directed by: David Nutter
Season 4 Episode 6: The Laws of Gods and Men
This Game of Thrones episode is the one where actor Peter Dinklage, who plays Tyrion Lannister, flexes his acting prowess to deliver one of the most iconic monologues of all time. At one point during his speech, the actor takes on the anger which he has dealt with throughout his life and molds it into the most epic scenes of all time. This episode is easily among the best Game of Thrones episodes of all time.
Directed by: Alik Sakharov
Season 5 Episode 8: Hardhome
Up until this point, fans haven’t seen the full extent of White Walkers’ abilities. The episode finally decides to answer some long asked questions about the White Walkers. The episode also delivers on nail-biting fight scenes between the White Walkers and humans and shows why the undead army is really unstoppable.
Directed by: Miguel Sapochnik
Season 6 Episode 9 & 10: Battle of the Bastards and The Winds of Winter
I know I am breaking my own rule of only one episode per season, but you’ll thank me after watching them. The series finally offers its viewers some long needed satisfaction in these two episodes. The Battle of the Bastards features epic battle scenes, the likes of which have never been seen before in television history. The battle scene is quickly followed by the conclusion of two very much awaited scenes.
Directed by: Miguel Sapochnik
Season 7 Episode 6: Beyond The Wall
This single episode was more enjoyable than the entire Suicide Squad movie starring Will Smith. The episode showcases the diverse powers of the undead Night King and also sends the powerful message that nothing can escape death.
Directed by: Alan Taylor
Season 8 Episode 6: The Iron Throne
Season 8 of Game of Thrones is my least favorite of the series but it had its moments. Talking specifically about the finale, it tried hard to deliver a crowd-pleasing ending, but isn’t that something we didn’t expect from the show in the first place? I still think the episode was too clean and simple, but, somehow, it managed to try its best to serve as a closure and a gateway to something hopeful in the world of Westeros. However, if I compare the episode to the other great episodes on this list, it doesn’t stand a chance. It’s a bit difficult to highlight the best moments of the episode without mentioning spoilers, so I’ll leave it up to you to watch the series and let me know what you think of the finale.
Directed by: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
What’s Your Choice For The Best Game of Thrones Episodes
The series still has tons of great episodes and moments which the fans of the series will keep revisiting. We have tried our best to keep the choice of best episodes in accordance with public opinion as much as possible. However, if we missed any great episodes or even a particular scene, do let us know in the comments below. Until then, do remember not to spoil the series for who haven’t watched it yet because ‘Valar Dohaeris’.
