It has been years since I first read A Game of Thrones, so I found the HBO series to mirror my expectations for the story without seeming to leave out significant plot lines or characters. Game of Thrones is, at its core, a story of political intrigue where families maneuver for power over their rivals. Set against a fantasy backdrop, its a world that has known peace for many years but is heading toward dark times.
The fantasy trappings are all here in the form of castles, knights, otherworldly creatures and strange happenings. However, they are just the window dressing for the real focus: the story and characters. Game of Thrones is violent, sexy, poignant and beautiful and the producers have faithfully brought the novel to life with all of their twists and turns. It is impossible for a show to have the same number of people on screen as Martin is able to place into the novels, but the difference is not noticeable here. Note that this is an adult show with heavy violence, nudity and sexual situations so plan your viewing time accordingly.
Overall, I found the best place to see Game of Thrones is from your PC through HBOGO. On the PC, HBOGO gives you behind the scenes details relevant to the action on screen and can help those new to the show immerse themselves in the deep backstory of the land of Westeros and its people. That being said, I did watch it most on my big screen TV where the sweeping landscapes and views of Winterfell, King's Landing and the Wall really felt immense.
Game of Thrones has already been picked up for a second season, which will air in Spring 2012. I can't wait and wholeheartedly give the show 5 Mick Happies.
For more details on HBO's Game of Thrones series, check out these sites:
Game of Thrones homepage at HBO.
Game of Thrones recap on Tor.com. (Warning spoilers)
For a detailed read through and commentary on the A Song of Ice and Fire series, go here:
Leigh Butler's read of A Song of Ice and Fire on Tor.com. (Warning spoilers)
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