How Does Game Of Thrones End: An In-Depth Look?

The Game of Thrones ending, particularly the final season, left many fans divided. At polarservicecenter.net, we understand how passionate fans can be about their favorite series and are here to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the conclusion, exploring the plot, character arcs, and the controversies that surrounded it. Let’s delve into the details and provide clarity on this divisive finale. Whether you’re seeking closure, a fresh perspective, or just want to understand the buzz, stick around to uncover the nuances of the Game of Thrones resolution with insightful analysis, detailed recaps, and passionate fan theories.

1. Decoding the Finale: How Does Game of Thrones End?

The Game of Thrones series concludes with Daenerys Targaryen’s death at the hands of Jon Snow and Bran Stark being chosen as the new ruler of the Six Kingdoms. After Daenerys devastates King’s Landing, Jon, realizing the threat she poses, kills her. A council then selects Bran the Broken as king, with Sansa Stark securing the North’s independence. This decision aims to break the cycle of hereditary rule, ushering in an era of elected leadership.

To further understand the nuances of the Game of Thrones ending, let’s examine the pivotal moments and character arcs that shaped the final outcome:

Daenerys’ Descent: The transformation of Daenerys from a liberator to a conqueror is a key element. Her burning of King’s Landing marked a significant turning point, shattering the hopes of many who saw her as a benevolent ruler. This act of violence ultimately sealed her fate and led to her assassination by Jon Snow.
Jon Snow’s Dilemma: Jon’s internal conflict between his love for Daenerys and his duty to protect the realm is central to the finale. His decision to kill Daenerys, driven by the realization that she would continue to rule through fear and destruction, underscores the tragic nature of his character.
Bran’s Ascension: The selection of Bran Stark as king is perhaps the most debated aspect of the finale. Bran’s unique ability to access the collective memory of humanity, coupled with his detached perspective, positions him as a ruler who can make decisions based on wisdom and impartiality. However, many viewers felt that his character arc was underdeveloped, making his ascension feel unearned.
Sansa’s Independence: Sansa Stark’s demand for the North to be an independent kingdom reflects her growth as a leader and her commitment to protecting her people. This decision acknowledges the unique identity and values of the North, highlighting the importance of regional autonomy within the realm.
Tyrion’s Influence: Tyrion Lannister’s role in shaping the new political order is crucial. As Hand to King Bran, he advocates for a system of elected leadership, aiming to prevent the abuses of power that plagued Westeros for centuries. His vision for a more just and equitable society reflects his intellectual and moral evolution throughout the series.

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2. The Logic Behind Bran: Why Was Bran Stark Chosen to Rule Westeros?

Bran Stark was chosen to rule Westeros because of his unique ability as the Three-Eyed Raven, possessing the collective memory of the past and the wisdom to guide the future. Tyrion Lannister argued that Bran’s story, his resilience, and his role as the keeper of Westeros’s history made him the ideal candidate to lead the realm into a new era of peace and prosperity.

To elaborate on why Bran was selected as the new ruler, here’s a more detailed analysis:

Tyrion’s Justification: Tyrion Lannister’s speech to the council of Westeros provides the most compelling justification for Bran’s ascension. He argues that Bran’s ability to remember the past makes him uniquely qualified to lead Westeros into the future. Tyrion suggests that Bran’s wisdom and impartiality would prevent the mistakes of previous rulers and ensure a more just and equitable society.
George R.R. Martin’s Vision: According to interviews with the show’s creators, George R.R. Martin himself envisioned Bran as the ultimate ruler of Westeros. This suggests that Bran’s ascension was not a last-minute decision but rather a long-planned outcome that aligns with the author’s original vision for the series.
Bran’s Neutrality: Bran’s detachment from personal ambition and emotional attachments is another factor that contributed to his selection as king. As the Three-Eyed Raven, Bran is less concerned with power and more focused on preserving the balance and harmony of the realm. This neutrality makes him an ideal candidate to mediate conflicts and make decisions that are in the best interests of all.
Breaking the Wheel: The selection of Bran as king is intended to break the cycle of hereditary rule that has plagued Westeros for centuries. By choosing a ruler based on merit and wisdom rather than bloodline, the council hopes to usher in an era of progress and reform. This decision reflects a desire to move away from the old ways of doing things and embrace a more democratic and inclusive form of governance.
Criticisms of Bran’s Selection: Despite the justifications for Bran’s ascension, many viewers felt that his character arc was underdeveloped and that his selection as king was unearned. Some argued that other characters, such as Jon Snow or Daenerys Targaryen, were more deserving of the throne based on their actions and experiences throughout the series.

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3. Cast Reflections: What Were the Cast’s Reactions to Their Characters’ Fates?

The cast of Game of Thrones had mixed reactions to their characters’ fates. Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) was happy with her character’s adventurous ending, while Kit Harington (Jon Snow) felt his character found freedom beyond the Wall. Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) initially struggled with her character’s dark turn but eventually embraced the tragic complexity of her arc.

To provide a comprehensive overview of the cast’s sentiments, let’s delve deeper into their reactions:

Maisie Williams (Arya Stark): Maisie Williams expressed satisfaction with Arya’s ending, where she sets off to explore the unknown lands west of Westeros. Williams felt that this adventurous conclusion was fitting for Arya’s independent and adventurous spirit, allowing her to forge her own path and discover new horizons.
Kit Harington (Jon Snow): Kit Harington found solace in Jon Snow’s return to the Night’s Watch and his reunion with the Wildlings beyond the Wall. Harington believed that this ending represented a form of liberation for Jon, allowing him to escape the political machinations of Westeros and find peace among the Free Folk.
Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen): Emilia Clarke initially struggled with Daenerys’ descent into tyranny and her ultimate demise. However, Clarke eventually came to appreciate the tragic complexity of Daenerys’ arc, recognizing that her character’s actions were driven by a desire to create a better world, even if her methods were misguided.
Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark): Sophie Turner was pleased with Sansa’s coronation as the Queen of the North, viewing it as a testament to her character’s resilience and leadership. Turner felt that Sansa’s independence and her commitment to protecting her people were fitting rewards for her struggles and sacrifices throughout the series.
Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister): Peter Dinklage expressed satisfaction with Tyrion’s role in shaping the new political order of Westeros. Dinklage believed that Tyrion’s advocacy for a more just and equitable society was a fitting conclusion to his character’s arc, highlighting his intellectual and moral evolution throughout the series.

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4. Expanding the Universe: Are There Any Game of Thrones Spinoffs?

Yes, there are several Game of Thrones spinoffs, including House of the Dragon, which focuses on the Targaryen civil war, and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, based on Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg. Other potential spinoffs, like Aegon’s Conquest and The Sea Snake, are in various stages of development.

Here’s a detailed overview of the existing and planned Game of Thrones spinoffs:

Spinoff Title	Focus	Status	Premiere Date (if applicable)
House of the Dragon	Targaryen civil war (Dance of the Dragons)	Airing	August 21, 2022
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight	Tales of Dunk and Egg, set 90 years before Game of Thrones	In Production	2025
Aegon’s Conquest	Aegon Targaryen’s conquest of Westeros	In Development	N/A
The Sea Snake	Lord Corlys Velaryon’s sea adventures	In Development	N/A

House of the Dragon: Set nearly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon chronicles the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. The series delves into the complex relationships, power struggles, and political intrigues that led to the downfall of the Targaryen dynasty.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight: Based on George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg, this series follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk), a hedge knight, and his young squire, Aegon V Targaryen (Egg). Set 90 years before Game of Thrones, the series offers a glimpse into a simpler time in Westeros, where honor, chivalry, and adventure still hold sway.
Aegon’s Conquest: This potential spinoff would explore Aegon Targaryen’s conquest of Westeros, depicting his arrival on the continent with his sisters and dragons, and his subsequent unification of the Seven Kingdoms under his rule.
The Sea Snake: Another project in development, The Sea Snake, would focus on the maritime adventures of Lord Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Sea Snake, a legendary explorer and the Lord of the Tides in House of the Dragon.

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5. Addressing Fan Disappointment: Why Was the Game of Thrones Ending Controversial?

The Game of Thrones ending was controversial due to several factors: a perceived rushed narrative, character arcs that deviated from expectations, and plot decisions that seemed inconsistent with earlier seasons. Many fans felt that the shortened final season did not provide adequate time to develop the storylines and character motivations, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the factors that contributed to the controversy:

Rushed Narrative: The shortened final season, consisting of only six episodes, was a major point of contention for many viewers. Fans felt that the reduced episode count did not allow for adequate development of the storylines and character arcs, leading to a rushed and unsatisfying conclusion.
Character Arc Deviations: Some character arcs in the final season were perceived as inconsistent with earlier seasons. For example, Daenerys Targaryen’s sudden descent into madness and her decision to burn King’s Landing were seen as a betrayal of her previous characterization as a liberator and a benevolent ruler.
Plot Inconsistencies: Several plot decisions in the final season were criticized for being illogical or inconsistent with established lore. For example, the selection of Bran Stark as king was seen by some as an unearned and unsatisfying resolution, as Bran’s character had been largely absent from the main storylines in recent seasons.
Fan Expectations: The immense popularity of Game of Thrones created high expectations for the ending. Many fans had their own ideas about how the series should conclude, and when the actual ending deviated from these expectations, it led to disappointment and criticism.
Online Petitions: The dissatisfaction with the final season was so widespread that it led to online petitions calling for a remake of the entire season. While these petitions were largely symbolic, they demonstrated the depth of feeling among disgruntled fans.

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6. Polar Support Services: How Does Polarservicecenter.net Assist Game of Thrones Fans?

While polarservicecenter.net primarily focuses on providing support for Polar products, we understand that our customers have diverse interests. We can indirectly assist Game of Thrones fans by ensuring their devices are functioning optimally, allowing them to stream episodes, engage in online discussions, and stay connected with the Game of Thrones community without interruption.

Here’s how polarservicecenter.net can help you stay connected and entertained:

Device Optimization: Ensure your devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, are running smoothly for uninterrupted streaming of Game of Thrones spinoffs and related content.
Troubleshooting Support: Provide solutions for common technical issues that may arise while streaming or using online platforms to discuss the series.
Connectivity Solutions: Offer guidance on optimizing internet connectivity for seamless access to Game of Thrones content.
Product Information: Share information about Polar products that can enhance your viewing experience, such as high-quality headphones or fitness trackers to monitor your activity during binge-watching sessions.
Community Engagement: While not directly related to Game of Thrones, polarservicecenter.net fosters a community where users can share their interests and connect with like-minded individuals.

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7. The Future of Westeros: What’s Next for the Game of Thrones Universe?

The future of the Game of Thrones universe looks promising, with House of the Dragon continuing to explore the Targaryen dynasty and other spinoffs in development that delve into different periods and regions of Westeros. These new series offer opportunities to revisit familiar locations, explore new characters, and uncover untold stories from the rich and complex world created by George R.R. Martin.

Let’s explore the potential future storylines and themes that may be explored in upcoming Game of Thrones projects:

The Reign of Bran the Broken: Future series could explore the challenges and triumphs of Bran’s reign as king of the Six Kingdoms. This could involve navigating political intrigues, dealing with internal conflicts, and implementing reforms to create a more just and equitable society.
The Exploration of Westeros: With Arya Stark setting sail to explore the unknown lands west of Westeros, future series could follow her adventures as she discovers new continents, encounters new civilizations, and uncovers the mysteries of the world beyond the known borders.
The Targaryen Dynasty: House of the Dragon has already opened up new avenues for exploring the Targaryen dynasty, and future series could delve even deeper into the history, legends, and tragedies of this iconic family. This could involve exploring the reign of Aegon the Conqueror, the Dance of the Dragons, or other pivotal events in Targaryen history.
The Rise of New Houses: As the old order fades away, new houses may rise to prominence in Westeros. Future series could focus on the struggles, ambitions, and alliances of these new houses as they vie for power and influence in the post-Game of Thrones era.
The Threat from Beyond the Wall: With Jon Snow returning to the Night’s Watch, future series could explore the ongoing threat from the White Walkers and other supernatural forces beyond the Wall. This could involve new battles, new alliances, and new discoveries about the origins and motivations of the ancient enemy.

8. George R.R. Martin’s Influence: How Did the Books Influence the Ending?

George R.R. Martin’s books heavily influenced the ending of Game of Thrones, as the show’s creators consulted with him on key plot points and character arcs. While the show deviated from the books in some respects, the overall direction and major events of the ending were consistent with Martin’s vision for the series.

Here’s a more detailed analysis of George R.R. Martin’s influence on the ending:

Consultation with the Creators: The show’s creators, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, consulted with George R.R. Martin on numerous occasions to discuss the overall direction of the series and the fates of the major characters. Martin provided them with key plot points, character arcs, and thematic elements that he intended to include in his upcoming books.
Major Plot Points: Many of the major events in the final season of Game of Thrones were based on George R.R. Martin’s plans for the books. For example, Daenerys Targaryen’s descent into madness and her decision to burn King’s Landing were events that Martin had foreshadowed in his books and intended to include in his own version of the ending.
Character Arcs: The fates of many of the major characters in the show were also influenced by George R.R. Martin’s plans. For example, the selection of Bran Stark as king, Jon Snow’s return to the Night’s Watch, and Arya Stark’s exploration of the unknown lands west of Westeros were all outcomes that Martin had envisioned for these characters.
Thematic Elements: The thematic elements of the ending, such as the dangers of unchecked power, the importance of wisdom and compassion, and the need for social justice, were also consistent with Martin’s overall vision for the series.
Deviations from the Books: While the show largely followed Martin’s plans, there were also some deviations from the books. These deviations were often made due to practical considerations, such as budgetary constraints or the need to streamline the narrative for television.

9. Alternative Endings: What Were Some Popular Fan Theories?

Many popular fan theories circulated before the Game of Thrones finale, including Jon Snow killing the Night King, Daenerys ruling justly, and Tyrion betraying Daenerys. These theories reflected fans’ hopes and expectations for the ending, as well as their interpretations of the characters’ motivations and storylines.

Here are some of the most popular fan theories that circulated before the finale:

Jon Snow as Azor Ahai: One of the most popular theories was that Jon Snow would fulfill the prophecy of Azor Ahai, a legendary hero who is destined to defeat the darkness. According to this theory, Jon would wield the sword Lightbringer and defeat the Night King, saving Westeros from the White Walkers.
Daenerys as a Benevolent Ruler: Many fans believed that Daenerys Targaryen would become a just and benevolent ruler of Westeros, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity. According to this theory, Daenerys would use her power to break the wheel of oppression and create a more equitable society for all.
Tyrion’s Betrayal: Some fans speculated that Tyrion Lannister would betray Daenerys Targaryen, either out of a desire for power or a belief that she was becoming too dangerous. According to this theory, Tyrion would plot against Daenerys and either kill her himself or conspire with others to remove her from the throne.
The Prince That Was Promised: Another popular theory was that either Jon Snow or Daenerys Targaryen would be revealed as the Prince That Was Promised, a legendary figure who is destined to save the world from darkness. According to this theory, the Prince That Was Promised would possess special powers or abilities that would allow them to defeat the Night King and restore balance to the world.
The Mad Queen: Some fans predicted that Daenerys Targaryen would succumb to madness and become a tyrannical ruler, similar to her father, the Mad King Aerys II Targaryen. According to this theory, Daenerys would unleash her dragons on King’s Landing and burn the city to the ground, becoming the very thing she had vowed to destroy.

10. Lasting Impact: How Has Game of Thrones Influenced Television?

Game of Thrones has had a lasting impact on television, raising the bar for production quality, visual effects, and complex storytelling. Its success has paved the way for other high-budget fantasy and science fiction series, demonstrating the audience’s appetite for immersive and epic narratives.

Here are some of the ways in which Game of Thrones has influenced television:

Increased Production Values: Game of Thrones set a new standard for production values in television, with its lavish sets, elaborate costumes, and stunning visual effects. The show’s success demonstrated that audiences were willing to pay for high-quality production values, leading to an increase in budgets for other television series.
Complex Storytelling: Game of Thrones was known for its complex storylines, morally ambiguous characters, and willingness to kill off major characters. This approach to storytelling challenged traditional television conventions and paved the way for other shows to explore more nuanced and complex narratives.
Genre Expansion: Game of Thrones demonstrated that fantasy and science fiction series could be commercially successful and critically acclaimed. The show’s success helped to legitimize these genres and paved the way for other high-budget fantasy and science fiction series, such as The Witcher, The Wheel of Time, and Foundation.
Global Appeal: Game of Thrones was a global phenomenon, attracting viewers from all over the world. The show’s success demonstrated that television series could transcend cultural boundaries and appeal to a diverse audience, leading to an increase in international co-productions and adaptations of foreign-language series.
Streaming Revolution: Game of Thrones played a significant role in the streaming revolution, as many viewers watched the show on streaming services such as HBO Go and HBO Now. The show’s success helped to popularize streaming as a primary means of watching television, leading to the rise of streaming giants such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+.

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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About The Game of Thrones Ending

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Game of Thrones ending:

1. Why did Jon Snow kill Daenerys?

Jon Snow killed Daenerys because he realized she had become a tyrannical ruler who posed a threat to the realm. After she burned King’s Landing, Jon understood that her quest for power would lead to further destruction and loss of innocent lives, leading him to make the difficult decision to assassinate her.

2. Why was Bran Stark chosen as king?

Bran Stark was chosen as king because of his unique ability as the Three-Eyed Raven, possessing the collective memory of the past and the wisdom to guide the future. Tyrion Lannister argued that Bran’s story, his resilience, and his role as the keeper of Westeros’s history made him the ideal candidate to lead the realm into a new era of peace and prosperity.

3. What happened to the Iron Throne?

The Iron Throne was destroyed by Drogon, Daenerys Targaryen’s last remaining dragon, after Jon Snow killed her. Drogon’s act symbolized the end of the Targaryen dynasty and the rejection of the old ways of ruling through conquest and oppression.

4. What was Arya Stark’s ending?

Arya Stark’s ending saw her setting sail to explore the unknown lands west of Westeros. This adventurous conclusion was fitting for Arya’s independent and adventurous spirit, allowing her to forge her own path and discover new horizons.

5. What was Jon Snow’s ending?

Jon Snow’s ending saw him returning to the Night’s Watch and reuniting with the Wildlings beyond the Wall. This ending represented a form of liberation for Jon, allowing him to escape the political machinations of Westeros and find peace among the Free Folk.

6. How did Sansa Stark become Queen of the North?

Sansa Stark became Queen of the North after successfully negotiating for the North’s independence from the rest of Westeros. Her coronation as queen was a testament to her resilience, leadership, and her commitment to protecting her people.

7. What was the purpose of the small council in the new government?

The small council in the new government was intended to advise King Bran and help him rule the Six Kingdoms effectively. The council consisted of Tyrion Lannister, Bronn of the Blackwater, Davos Seaworth, Grandmaester Samwell Tarly, and Brienne of Tarth, each bringing their unique skills and perspectives to the task of governing.

8. Were the showrunners happy with the Game of Thrones ending?

The showrunners, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, have expressed mixed feelings about the Game of Thrones ending. While they stood by their creative decisions, they also acknowledged the criticism they received from fans and admitted that they could have done some things differently.

9. How did the Game of Thrones ending impact the spinoff series?

The Game of Thrones ending had a significant impact on the spinoff series, shaping the direction and tone of the new projects. The success of House of the Dragon demonstrated the audience’s continued interest in the world of Westeros, while the controversy surrounding the original series’ ending served as a cautionary tale for the creators of the spinoffs.

10. Will George R.R. Martin’s books have a different ending?

It remains to be seen whether George R.R. Martin’s upcoming books will have a different ending than the Game of Thrones television series. While Martin has stated that he intends to complete his books and provide his own version of the ending, it is possible that he will make changes based on the feedback he has received from fans and the experience of watching the show’s conclusion.