Game of Thrones season 8 faced substantial backlash for its abrupt conclusion, a criticism that can largely be attributed to the show’s finale being confined to just six episodes. While some episodes featured extended runtimes, they were still disproportionate compared to the earlier ten-episode seasons. The series could have benefited greatly from an additional season or two to adequately resolve character arcs and major storylines. In fact, George R.R. Martin expressed a desire for a total of ten seasons to do justice in adapting his works.
With the premature conclusion of Game of Thrones, a wave of discussion emerged about a potential season 9. Although a continuation might not effectively amend the shortcomings of season 8, earlier seasons would have allowed for richer narratives and a more satisfying resolution. This speculation presents an interesting avenue for what seasons 9 and 10 might have explored to enhance the overall storytelling.
Daenerys Targaryen’s Mad Queen Twist: A Call for Better Setup in Seasons 9 & 10
The Mother of Dragons’ Villain Turn Felt Rushed in Season 8
The transformation of Daenerys Targaryen into an unexpected villain in season 8 attracted significant critique. While subtle hints of her tyrannical tendencies surfaced throughout the series, the transition felt abrupt and inadequately foreshadowed. Historically, Daenerys employed a ‘fire and blood’ strategy to liberate the oppressed yet remained staunchly opposed to unnecessary bloodshed.
The shocking decision to raze King’s Landing, indiscriminately killing innocents, seemed contradictory to her established character. By the time of the attack in “The Bells,”Daenerys had already secured her victory; there was no substantial motivation for such a ruthless act, leaving her feeling one-dimensional and devoid of remorse.
Given additional seasons, there could have been a more gradual depiction of Daenerys’ mental decline, taking into account the loss of her closest friends, advisors, and her dragon. This deeper exploration could have clarified her motivations and sympathies, ultimately allowing audiences to connect with her tragic arc more profoundly.
Game of Thrones Could Have Explored Bran’s Purpose More Deeply in 2 Additional Seasons
The Three-Eyed Raven Story Was Glossed Over Too Quickly and Lacked Clarity
Bran Stark’s ascension to the throne rivaled Daenerys’ controversial turn as a less-than-satisfying plot twist in season 8. This narrative, which had been cultivated over several seasons, did not adequately articulate the significance of Bran’s role as the Three-Eyed Raven. His emergence as king felt convenient rather than earned, with the various Great Houses surprisingly conforming to Tyrion’s sudden speech.
While the notion that the least power-hungry contender should lead is appealing, Bran’s ascension appeared to undermine the complexity that had been developed in his storyline. A more fleshed-out exploration in seasons 9 and 10 could have delved into the deeper lore surrounding the Three-Eyed Raven and the Night King’s relentless pursuit of him. This lack of storytelling left Bran’s arc feeling disjointed and devoid of context.
The Night King and White Walkers: Potential for Greater Threats in Seasons 9 and 10
The portrayal of the Night King in season 8 proved to be an underwhelming conclusion to a long-built menace. Rather than serving as the ultimate antagonist, the White Walkers were dispatched in a single, rushed episode that failed to adequately explain their motivations or origins. The absence of a climactic showdown between the Night King and Jon Snow further diminished the impact of this narrative arc.
Had additional seasons been available, particularly one that could focus entirely on the White Walkers and the ominous threat they posed, the series could have achieved a more reflective portrayal of their tragically haunting invasion of Westeros. As it stands, the early cancellation of the anticipated spinoff Bloodmoon leaves many unanswered questions about this chilling adversary.
Game of Thrones Could Have Elevated Jon Snow’s Parentage Twist
Jon’s Targaryen Heritage Needed a Greater Impact
The reveal regarding Jon Snow’s true parentage was a thrilling detail from the outset of the series, confirming that he was the legitimate heir to the Iron Throne as Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark’s son. However, this significant reveal was not leveraged adequately throughout season 8. Instead of serving as a catalyst for deeper conflicts, it primarily fueled tensions between Jon and Daenerys.
With more time dedicated to developing this storyline in seasons 9 and 10, Jon’s heritage could have created a compelling rivalry, encouraging the Great Houses of Westeros to align with him rather than with Daenerys. This layering of family dynamics could yield deeper narrative developments, allowing the more traditional subversion of expectations to occur without compromising character arcs. Unfortunately, much of this potential fizzled out too soon.
The Lannisters Deserved Better Endings
Cersei, Jaime, and Tyrion All Required More Fulfilling Conclusions
The Lannisters, integral players in the intricate tapestry of Game of Thrones, concluded their journeys in season 8 with unsatisfactory resolutions. Jaime Lannister’s storyline received particular criticism, eclipsing his impressive character development with a seemingly impulsive return to Cersei, undermining his prior growth. His clash with the White Walkers, alongside his heartfelt connection with Brienne, set the tone for a triumphant redemption arc that was abruptly discarded.
Cersei’s end also felt lackluster; her character spent valuable moments sipping wine rather than facing the consequences of her actions. The absence of significant confrontations with the Starks underscored a missed opportunity for impactful moments. Crushing her character beneath falling stones remains a famously mocked decision, suggesting that further seasons might have allowed for crucial reunions and a more satisfying resolution.
Finally, Tyrion Lannister’s portrayal suffered from inconsistency in season 8, reflecting decisions made in prior episodes that diluted his cleverness. If the narrative had more time to develop Daenerys’ descent, Tyrion could have retained his astuteness throughout the series. The full potential of his character may forever remain a mystery unless addressed in The Winds of Winter.
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