We Need To Stop Trying To Find 'The Next Game of Thrones'

Game of Thrones is one of the most successful television shows of all time, cementing its legacy in pop culture forever due to its detailed story and the variety of characters it provided. However, the popularity of that fantasy series has set off a trend of shows looking to be the ‘next Game of Thrones‘ rather than the first of their kind.

It’s negatively impacting television because the focus is consistently on trying to repeat the past rather than embracing the future and how shows might end up taking a different path. It’s crucial that everyone stops focusing on what the ‘next Game of Thrones‘ might be because it’s going to be impossible for the cards to align in that way once again.

Game Of Thrones Was A Singular Moment In Pop Culture History

Throughout history, certain television shows or movies have broken into pop culture history. They capture the attention of a global audience and have everyone talking, whether it’s at the water cooler in the office or on social media, and for a period, Game of Thrones was that show.

Much like the release of Avengers: End Game took over the world, Game of Thrones also had everyone’s attention. Whether it was constantly getting the cast on chat shows, having skits and jokes performed about it, or speculation videos doing the rounds, everyone wanted a piece of the action. A lot of that is down to timing, and it isn’t easy to replicate the circumstances surrounding it.

Of course, the show has to be genuinely good to start with, and Game of Thrones certainly ticked that box. It was an amazing story that blended love, politics, action, fantasy, and elements of horror together in one incredible journey packed full of twists and turns. The actors were perfectly cast, and the locations were beautifully chosen, and it all came together to take over pop culture.

However, simply expecting other television shows to do that isn’t going to happen, no matter how many similarities they might have. Whether it’s The Witcher of The Rings of Power, just because a series dabbles in fantasy does not guarantee that it will be the same as Game of Thrones, nor should people expect it to be.

People Forget The Game Of Thrones Bubble Burst Dramatically

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Game of Thrones produced fantastic television episodes with incredible scenes and detailed characters. All of that helped to tell a great story, and that is why the series became beloved. However, many people tend to forget that the series’ bubble burst in a dramatic fashion. A rushed final season and some bizarre storylines and character choices meant that Game of Thrones had one of the most universally hated endings in television history.

This certainly damaged the show’s reputation, as it failed to stick the landing after audiences had committed so many years to watching it. With that in mind, it’s hard to understand why people are so desperate to find the ‘next’ version of the show. Considering it didn’t provide a satisfying ending, many people should have a bitter taste about it rather than wanting more of the same.

The fact that several Game of Thrones spin-off ideas have failed to launch and ended up having the plug pulled on them showcases that maybe this franchise isn’t as strong as it once was. According to Nielson records, the second season premiere of House of the Dragon saw a 22% drop in those who tuned in for the show’s debut episode, which proves that interest has started to disappear.

Audiences Aren’t Giving Other Shows A Chance

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Nowadays, many people go into shows hoping that they will follow similar beats as Game of Thrones and end up disappointed if they don’t, but that’s not how television works. Shows have to stand on their own and tell a unique story for them to become successful because otherwise, they’ll always be seen as B-grade versions of what they’re being compared to.

It doesn’t help that many television shows are now trying to cater to that audience to fill the gap Game of Thrones left behind. Whether it’s by being ultra-violent, having over-the-top love scenes, or trying to juggle too many storylines, it’s equally important that the upcoming fantasy shows an attempt to break the mold by being different.

It’s time for the world of television to truly forget about Game of Thrones and allow it to stand alone as a moment in history. People can always talk about it, reflect on it, or go back and watch it. But when it comes to reviewing new releases, it’s time to let those shows try to find their own niche.

Audiences are starting to move on from the Game of Thrones phenomenon, and the more time that passes will only aid that. Therefore, it’s crucial to give shows a fresh chance with an open mind like fans did when Game of Thrones originally aired. This will allow more high-quality shows to kick the door down and produce unforgettable television to entertain the masses.

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