**Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author.**
Game of Thrones is certainly one of the best shows in the history of television. The sheer production scale, the top-notch performances, and the unpredictable twists and turns make the HBO fantasy drama stand out from other shows.
Though the show received criticism toward its end for rushing the storyline and not having a satisfying conclusion, it is still remembered for its epic moments, battles, fights, layered characters, and deaths, even years after the series finale.
Game of Thrones ran for eight seasons between 2011 and 2019, with every installment reaching new heights of viewership ratings as the fight for the Iron Throne intensified. So which is the best season of the show? Well, for us, Game of Thrones season 4 remains the most memorable.
Game of Thrones season 4 is the best season of the show
Game of Thrones truly peaks in its fourth season. All ten episodes of this season are packed with shocking twists, iconic characters, unforgettable moments, intense drama, and breathtaking action. Based on the second half of George R. R. Martin’s novel A Storm of Swords, season 4 feels like a perfectly crafted story.
The season wastes no time shaking up the power dynamics of Westeros. After the Red Wedding in season 3, where much of the Stark family was killed, this season introduces another historic wedding, the Purple Wedding.
King Joffrey Baratheon, one of the most hated characters in the show, is poisoned at his own wedding, leaving the audience satisfied yet shocked. This event sets off a chain reaction. The Lannisters, who seemed to control everything, begin to fall apart.
Tywin Lannister, the family patriarch, fights to keep power, but his children rebel against him in different ways. Tyrion Lannister’s trial for Joffrey’s murder becomes one of the highlights of the show.
Peter Dinklage gives an Emmy-winning performance during Tyrion’s speech as he effortlessly expresses a blend of anger, pain, and frustration. Meanwhile, Arya Stark continues her journey with the Hound, and the two create one of the show’s most entertaining pairings.
The perfect pacing and storytelling in Game of Thrones season 4
Game of Thrones season 4 moves at just the right speed. Every episode feels like its own story while keeping the bigger picture in mind. Unlike later seasons, which sometimes rush through the plot, this season takes its time to build tension and develop its characters.
The balance between action and drama keeps the audience hooked all the way through. The season also ties up important storylines while setting the stage for future conflicts.
Plot points like the Wildling attack on the Wall, Tyrion’s trial, and Tywin Lannister’s death feel satisfying as they have been built up pretty well. Meanwhile, the show introduces new plots like Daenerys’ challenges as a ruler in this season, which set up promising stories for later episodes.
The impressive characters and moments in season 4
One of season 4’s standout elements is the introduction of Oberyn Martell. Played by Pedro Pascal, Oberyn is charming, fearless, and determined to get revenge on the Lannisters for killing his sister.
He quickly becomes a fan favorite, but his tragic death in a brutal fight against the Mountain turns out to be one of the show’s most surprising moments. Other characters also shine this season as Jon Snow defends the Wall in an epic battle against the Wildlings.
Meanwhile, Daenerys Targaryen continues her journey in Meereen, where she frees slaves but struggles with the challenges of ruling a city. These storylines showcase the personal struggles and growth of each character and make the overall plot more layered.
Season 4 is not just the best season of Game of Thrones, it is one of the best seasons of television ever. From the Purple Wedding to the Wildling battle, the season keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats and proves why Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon.
All eight seasons of Game of Thrones are available to stream on Max.