There is no denying that Game of Thrones is a phenomenon at this point, with millions of fans desperately waiting for the next episode, or enjoying the entire series. The pros and cons of binge watching TV. everyone has done it thanks to Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime. But for all its various pros, it also has some downsides. Read more . For most fans, the books and/or TV series are enough. But for more fans, additional information, context, news and comments are always more than welcome.
With that in mind, we've scoured the web to find the best resources for teaching you the history and landscape of Westeros. To bring you more breaking news and gossip than you can read. And to learn about the art and craft that goes into creating such an iconic show.
NB:If you're still not fully up to speed, you can read our guide to avoiding Game of Thrones Spoilers before continuing. You have been warned!
Getting your head around the geography of Westeros can be a dizzying challenge. But knowing where Casterly Rock is in relation to Braavos can add a new dimension to your understanding of the intricate web of stories that is Game of Thrones. .
Search Google Images and you'll find mountains of fan-made maps. HBO has even created its own map, though it's disappointingly non-detailed. The most comprehensive, by far, is this interactive map of Westeros. . Packed with minute detail, you can see even the smallest waypoints marked by linking to their respective Westeros.org wiki entries.
Even more impressive is the location timeline. Select the characters you're interested in, then drag the timeline slider (to the right). This will show you the paths these characters are taking, episode by episode.
If you want to be up to date with the latest news. Game of Thrones Fan theories, news and gossip, there are two websites that stand out from the rest. Winter is Coming is an incredibly active site covering breaking news, episode reviews, and behind-the-scenes information. In just a few minutes, you'll be amazed at how much there is to consume about this now cultural phenomenon.
Alternatively, check out the watchers on the wall. This is "A Game of Thrones community for breaking news, casting and commentary." Based on that description, it certainly doesn't disappoint. There are in-depth interviews, intricate plot breakdowns, and a popular podcast. Oh, and a countdown timer for the release of the next episode.
If you sometimes don't know what's going on, or need to remember what Game of Thrones is up to , An episode guide is what you need. The best is the HBO Episode Guide. At the top of the page, select the episode you watched most recently. You'll receive links to a detailed synopsis, a range of exclusive content, and links to biographies of the main characters featured in the episode.
For more opinion guides, check out those published by The Guardian. And for more accurate summaries, head over to IMDb.
the Game of Thrones Wiki answers any questions you might have about Game of Thrones . Whether you want more details on the Mutiny at Castle Black, or are completely confused about the Old Gods of the Forest, you can find the answers here. The additional sections on Culture and Society, and Production also add much more context.
The house situation in Westeros seems worse than dysfunctional. And sometimes amazing. Fortunately, HBO has put together this visual guide to Game of Thrones. Houses to help you understand who is related to whom and where each lineage begins.
To add even more context, learn about the history of Game of Thrones With These YouTube Videos YouTube Explains The Real Story Behind Game Of Thrones YouTube Explains The Real Story Behind Game Of Thrones If you're a fan of Game of Thrones, you may know that GoT draws its inspiration from historical people and events. But do you know which ones? And how do they relate to the series? Read more . Additionally, this House Viewers Guide outlines the history of each house and provides profiles for each character. To understand all of this in relation to the history and history of Westeros, take a close look at this historical timeline.
The skill and technology behind the Game of Thrones The sets are incredible. A lot of that is down to production designer Deborah Riley. In the video above, she explains that the goal is for the viewer to be able to "smell the set." A “Create worlds and environments that the audience believes in.”. In other words, it has to be perfect.
To learn about the craftsmanship that goes into each of these Game of Thrones On set, you should read the interview and watch the videos on SmithsonianMag. Winter is Coming also has a couple of great articles on the subject. You can also read about Deborah's real-life inspirations for the sets she designs..
Not only the sets are impressive. the Game of Thrones the costume designers tirelessly create a large number of complex costumes for the massive cast. In the video above, ex-Game of Thrones Costume designer Michele Clapton talks about some of the most well-known outfits we've seen on the show and the challenges she and her crew have faced.
Seeing some of the subtleties of these suits is fascinating. Take, for example, the crown Joffrey wore at his wedding. It not only featured the Baratheon's antlers, but was also intertwined with the roses that were present on Margaery's crown, symbolizing the gradual control Margaery is taking of her actions. There are also several more cryptic costume messages throughout the series.
You can learn more about Game of Thrones Costume design at Fashionista, Spin and Making. Game of Thrones .
In addition to everything mentioned so far, there are a number of quality podcasts dedicated to Game of Thrones . One of the most valued is Cast of thrones (iTunes). This podcast contains regular, informal conversations about each episode as the series airs. During Game of Thrones blackouts, there are discussions about the books, as well as the Telltale video game series.
Another option is A cast of kings (iTunes). This is a weekly show where Vanity Fair contributor Joanna Robinson and author Dave Chen discuss the plots and themes of the HBO series. Both hosts are extremely knowledgeable. Listening to the podcast directly after watching an episode is a great way to understand the subtleties buried within the plot.
If you'd rather listen to a podcast that focuses solely on the TV show rather than the books, try Game of Thrones:The Podcast (iTunes). This regular conversation between the two hosts, Jim and Aron, provides interesting analysis of each episode, is genuinely entertaining, and is produced to a very high standard.
As you can see, it looks like Game of Thrones It has not only taken over social networks, but also a considerable corner of the Web. The resources listed above are the most valuable tip of an ever-expanding iceberg. An iceberg of quality content that is produced in parallel to the George R. R. Martin books and the hit TV show.
This really is an entertainment franchise in full force. A Franchise Whose Fans Don't Just Host Watch Parties How To Successfully Host A TV Watching Party How To Successfully Host A TV Watching Party If you have friends over to watch a TV event, you want to make sure you get the basics. Make that happen with our guide to hosting a successful TV viewing party. Read More And it seems that the deeper you dig, the more there is to discover about this fascinating fictional world of power struggles and magic.
We always want to hear your feedback, so please let us know what other Game of Thrones resources that you would add to this list? Or tell us which resources have added the most to your Game of Thrones experience?