Why Does Every Medieval or Fantasy Show Get Compared to Game of Thrones?
It's become a familiar refrain for those who enjoy medieval and fantasy television: every new show in the genre is inevitably compared to Game of Thrones (GoT). But why? There are several factors that contribute to this phenomenon, including cultural impact, narrative complexity, high production values, character-driven stories, and genre popularization.
Cultural Impact and the Landmark Series
Game of Thrones achieved unprecedented success and cultural significance. It brought fantasy to mainstream television and set a new standard for the genre. Its complex characters, intricate plots, and high production values made it a landmark series that has left an indelible mark on the world of fantasy television.
Narrative Complexity and Multi-Layered Storytelling
One of the reasons Game of Thrones is so often compared to other fantasy shows is its narrative complexity. The series is renowned for its multi-layered storytelling, political intrigue, and moral ambiguity. Many viewers expect similar depth and complexity in new shows, leading to inevitable comparisons. This complexity also resonates with audiences, making them demand more than just a simple story.
High Production Values and Visual Storytelling
The high production values of Game of Thrones were notable for its cinematic quality, elaborate sets, and special effects. This raised the bar for visual storytelling in the genre, making audiences more critical of the production quality in other shows. Viewers expect shows to match the cinematic experience that Game of Thrones provided.
Character-Driven Stories and Depth
Another reason for the comparisons is the character-driven nature of the stories. Game of Thrones focuses on character development and the consequences of their decisions. This resonated deeply with audiences, who found it satisfying to explore the inner lives of characters and the moral dilemmas they faced. New shows are often measured against this standard of character depth and growth.
Genre Popularization and Fandom Influence
The success of Game of Thrones contributed to a renewed interest in fantasy and medieval narratives. As more shows emerged in this genre, they inevitably drew comparisons to the most successful example of them all. The passionate fanbase of Game of Thrones has also influenced discussions around fantasy media, with fans often referencing the show when talking about themes, character arcs, and plot devices in new shows.
The Unique Elements That Make Game of Thrones Special
While Game of Thrones may not be the first fantasy series in the medieval tradition, its combination of these elements has made it a touchstone for evaluating subsequent works in the genre. What sets it apart, so argues Mr. Qwen, is its real representation of medieval warfare and the complex relationships that drive the story.
Unlike The Lord of the Rings (LoTR), where the journey is often characterized by a breakdown of character relationships and a focus on unity, Game of Thrones excels in the intricacy of its interpersonal dynamics. The seven kingdoms, each with different families and 8000 years of potential history, create an unfolding web of feuds that captivate the audience. At first, it can be overwhelming to keep track of the many characters and their relationships. However, once the complexity sinks in, it's impossible not to be enthralled by the depth of the story.
Another unique element of Game of Thrones is the high body count. Unlike The Lord of the Rings, where the characters once set on their quest remain relatively intact over the course of the series, Game of Thrones often sees the beloved characters die, even the seemingly righteous ones. This is a key part of its dark realism. The series showcases the harshness of reality and the fact that good people can and do die, which adds a layer of psychological tension that keeps the audience on edge. This is especially thrilling for fans of downer endings, such as those from The Empire Strikes Back or The Last of Us.
The way Game of Thrones handles character morality is also noteworthy. Lawful good characters often die, while chaotic evil characters can enjoy a longer run, highlighting the political and moral complexities of the story. It's a reminder that in the world of Game of Thrones, the moral landscape is not straightforward, and that the political nature of the world is paramount.