Game of Thrones has been an iconic series since its first season was released on HBO in 2011. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most popular television shows of all time. But not all of its episodes have been fan favorites. Ranked among the worst episodes of the show are a few that have been controversial and/or downright hated. From a rushed finale to an out-of-place detour, these episodes of Game of Thrones have been deemed by fans as the worst of the nine seasons.
When it comes to ranking the worst Game of Thrones episodes, there are a few contenders. Some of these episodes have been criticized for their pacing, characterization, or plot. Others have been met with a collective groan from fans for their seemingly unnecessary filler. And then there are some episodes that were just plain bad.
In this list, we will be discussing the worst episodes of Game of Thrones and ranking them from least bad to most terrible. Read on to find out which episodes of the show have been ranked among its worst and why they have earned this dubious honor.
Written by Sophie and last updated on Nov 20, 2024.
PS: The following content contains spoilers!
PPS: I will admit that parts of this page was written with the help of AI - it makes my work so much easier to not start from a blank page!
The High Sparrow eyes another target. Jaime confronts a hero. Arya makes a plan. The North is reminded.
The episode was rated 7,97 from 17995 votes.
Jon Snow is dead. Daenerys meets a strong man. Cersei sees her daughter again.
The episode was rated 8,01 from 18683 votes.
An old foe comes back into the picture. Gilly meets Sam’s family. Arya faces a difficult choice. Jaime faces off against the High Sparrow.
The episode was rated 8,07 from 17998 votes.
Daenerys meets her future. Bran meets the past. Tommen confronts the High Sparrow. Arya trains to be No One. Varys finds an answer. Ramsay gets a gift.
The episode was rated 8,07 from 17722 votes.
While Jaime weighs his options, Cersei answers a request. Tyrion’s plans bear fruit. Arya faces a new test.
The episode was rated 8,08 from 17978 votes.
Bran trains with the Three-Eyed Raven. In King’s Landing, Jaime advises Tommen. Tyrion demands good news, but has to make his own. At Castle Black, the Night’s Watch stands behind Thorne. Ramsay Bolton proposes a plan, and Balon Greyjoy entertains other proposals.
The episode was rated 8,32 from 18443 votes.
Tyrion strikes a deal. Jorah and Daario undertake a difficult task. Jaime and Cersei try to improve their situation.
The episode was rated 8,34 from 17970 votes.
In the Game of Thrones episode "The Door," the plot thickens as Tyrion finds an unexpected ally, Bran's knowledge expands, Brienne embarks on a crucial mission, and Arya seizes an opportunity to prove herself. The episode keeps viewers engaged with its fast-paced developments, but it's not without its heart-wrenching moments. The loss of the Direwolves, particularly the revelation behind Hodor's iconic phrase "Hodor," adds a layer of emotional depth that tugs at the heartstrings. Brace yourself, because this episode hits the feels button a thousand times!
Amidst the tears, there are also moments of redemption and growth. Daenerys and Jorah find reconciliation, showcasing the strength of their bond. Sansa, who has matured significantly since previous seasons, continues to demonstrate her resilience and ability to take charge. It's inspiring to see her rise above the challenges she has faced. Additionally, viewers finally gain some insight into the mysterious white walkers, unraveling the secrets behind their chilling presence. This episode is nothing short of captivating, leaving viewers emotionally drained yet satisfied. A truly remarkable episode that deserves a perfect score.
"The Door" stands out as one of the best episodes in both the season and the entire Game of Thrones series. The decision to have prolonged, uninterrupted segments in a single location allows for a deeper exploration of storylines, character motivations, and relationships. It's a format that immerses viewers and creates a sense of connection with the characters. And of course, we can't forget the incredibly touching ending that leaves a lasting impact. This episode reminds us why Game of Thrones has become a cultural phenomenon. Farewell, Hodor. You will be missed.
The episode was rated 8,45 from 18953 votes.
In the Game of Thrones episode "The Winds of Winter," tensions rise as Cercei and Loras face their long-awaited trial. Meanwhile, in Winterfell, Davos confronts Melisandre, leading to a confrontation that could have far-reaching consequences. Bran also experiences another glimpse into the past, unraveling more secrets and prophecies. And as the episode unfolds, Daenerys makes a decision that will shape her future as she prepares to leave Mereen.
This episode is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with shocking moments and jaw-dropping revelations. The comments from fans reflect the excitement and satisfaction they felt while watching the episode. From the demise of significant characters to the confirmation of a long-standing theory, "The Winds of Winter" delivers on all fronts. And let's not forget the badass female characters who continue to captivate audiences. As we eagerly await the next season, it's clear that Game of Thrones has left a lasting impression. Winter has come, and we can't wait to see what comes next.
The finale of "The Winds of Winter" is nothing short of breathtaking. With the conclusion of the King's Landing plotline, fans are left in awe of the storytelling prowess displayed in this episode. Cercei's grin may have sent shivers down our spines, but it's clear that her time is running out as the Targaryen army and dragons approach. The death of characters like Margaery is a bittersweet moment, but it serves a purpose in moving the story forward. And finally, the confirmation of the R+L=J theory through Ned and Lyanna's scene is a beautifully executed moment. The episode's emotional impact doesn't stop there, with the powerful scene at Winterfell, the revenge of Arya, and the long-awaited invasion of Westeros by Daenerys and her forces. It's no wonder fans are left chanting "The King in the North" and eagerly anticipating the next season. "The Winds of Winter" is a perfect 10/10, leaving us both sad to see the season end and excited for what's to come. All hail Queen Cercei!
The episode was rated 8,83 from 21378 votes.
In the highly anticipated episode of Game of Thrones titled "Battle of the Bastards," viewers were treated to an intense showdown between Jon Snow and Ramsay Bolton for control of Winterfell. The battle was nothing short of extraordinary, leaving fans on the edge of their seats with its breathtaking visuals and nail-biting tension. But what made this episode truly remarkable were the unexpected twists and character developments that unfolded.
One highlight of the episode was the long-awaited display of the dragons in action. Their majestic presence and fiery prowess were a sight to behold, captivating audiences with their sheer power. Additionally, the interaction between Daenerys and Yara was pure gold, showcasing the strength and wit of these formidable female characters.
While the battle itself was visually stunning, it was the ultimate demise of Ramsay Bolton that left fans cheering. Sansa, who had endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of Ramsay, finally had her moment of triumph as she played a pivotal role in his downfall. This significant character development for Sansa was a testament to her resilience and growth throughout the series.
Despite the triumphs, the episode did not shy away from the brutal realities of war. The piles of bodies and the horrific scenes of suffering served as a stark reminder of the high cost of conflict. As the episode drew to a close, the audience was left contemplating the price paid for victory and the potential consequences of perpetuating a cycle of violence.
"Battle of the Bastards" exemplified the brilliance of Game of Thrones, showcasing masterful action sequences while delving into the complex moral dilemmas faced by its characters. This episode not only delivered on its promises but also left a lasting impact on viewers, setting the stage for an unforgettable finale.
The episode was rated 8,91 from 21373 votes.
