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House of the Dragonhad the odds stacked against it. Following in the footsteps of a masterpiece is no easy task; however, following up in the mastery ofGame of Thrones,which is one of the most watched and beloved shows of all time, is bound to bring disappointment. However, the series managed to prove its existence, impressing critics and audiences alike and walking side by side with its parent series.

A still from House of the Dragon | Credit: Max

While there is no denying that the spin-off series has had people hooked since its first episode was released, it is nowhere near the success of the original series. The impact thatGame of Throneshad is unparalleled, forcing the spin-off to play catch-up for most of its run.

One of the best examples of this would be that of the highest-rated episodes from both series. It would seem that Emma D’Arcy’s series is still quite behind when it comes to ratings compared to Emilia Clarke’s series.

Eva Best in House of the Dragon

House of the Dragon’shighest-rated episode is worthy of its title

The Red Dragon and the Goldstands as one of the most beloved and emotional episodes in the entirety ofHouse of the Dragon’srun so far. While the second season was somewhat of a letdown compared to the first, its fourth episode managed to do something that the first couldn’t and set the record for the highest-rated episode from the series.

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According toIMDb, the episode stands at a 9.4 rating, withThe Lord of the Tidesfrom the first season being a close second, having a rating of 9.3. Such high acclaim was certainly expected with how tragic the episode’s ending was; Rhaenys and Meleys dying a glorious death, in true Targaryen fashion.

It was not just the ending that left fans at the edges of their seats. The episode captured fans from the very beginning, with the stakes being through the roof and so much happening at once. However, all of its mastery was not enough for it to compete withGame of Thrones.

House of the Dragon’s Most Foolish Plot Change in Season 2 Completely Goes Against George R.R. Martin’s Biggest Rule for Dragons

Game of Thronesstill holds the crown

AlthoughHouse of the Dragonmade an excellent effort at trying to compete withGame of Thrones, the parent series still managed to stay on top with its acclaim. Though most shows would dream of having such highly rated episodes in their midst, Emilia Clarke’s series manages to outdo even such a high number.

The highest-rated episode from the series isThe Rains of Castamere, something that no fan of the series would be surprised by. Having a rating of 9.9 onIMDb, not only is the episode the highest-rated from the series, but also one of the most critically acclaimed episodes of all time.

Rhaenys Targaryen

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It is one of the most talked-about moments in the entire franchise, with its repercussions being felt throughout the entire series. The Red Wedding episode leaves a lasting impact on the audience just as much as the story.

Considering this, it is not surprising that it stands at the position it does. Even thoughEmma D’Arcy’sseries is making its talent known, it is still a long way from the genius that the original series created, even with the involvement of George R.R. Martin.

A still from The Rains of Castamere in Game of Thrones | Credit: Max

Game of ThronesandHouse of the Dragonare available for streaming on Max.

Ananya Godboley

Senior Writer

Articles Published :2219

Ananya Godboley is a Senior Entertainment Writer at FandomWire, majorly focusing on TV shows, with over 2,000 articles published. She has been an entertainment journalist for the past two years. Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in psychology from K.R. Mangalam University, Ananya also likes to fangirl as a full-time job. She covers news and analyses on anything from Rick and Morty to Hannibal and even Arcane. In between these lines, she also enjoys superheroes and Taylor Swift.A philosophy enthusiast, Ananya enjoys digging deeper into the media she consumes, trying to understand the root of her favorite characters' behavior.

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Emma D’ArcyGame of ThronesGeorge R.R. MartinHouse of the Dragon