groundbreaking series, adapted from George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels, captivated global audiences with its complex characters, political intrigue, and unexpected plot twists. Despite mixed reactions to its final season, the appetite for more content from this universe remains high. The good news is that HBO has been actively working on spin-offs, bringing new stories from the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. These projects aim to expand the rich lore established in the original series, exploring different eras, characters, and corners of Martin’s epic world.
This article delves into the various Game of Thrones spin-offs in development, including those that have already made significant progress and some that were shelved, as well as how they will shape the legacy of the original show and enrich the A Song of Ice and Fire universe.
1. The Rise of Spin-offs: Why Continue the Story?
The global phenomenon that was Game of Thrones left a lasting cultural impact. Its blend of fantasy, realism, and shocking storytelling set a high bar for television, revolutionizing how audiences engage with serialized narratives. Naturally, HBO wanted to capitalize on the success of the original series, given its extensive world-building and deep backstory.
However, continuing the main plotline was complicated. With the original series wrapping up the major arcs—albeit controversially—the prospect of a direct sequel seemed less appealing. Instead, HBO saw greater potential in exploring other aspects of Martin’s universe that hadn’t been covered in the original show. Westeros is rich with history, legends, and lands beyond the familiar. Characters such as Daenerys Targaryen, Jon Snow, and Tyrion Lannister may have concluded their arcs, but there were countless untold stories waiting to be explored.
Furthermore, George R.R. Martin’s sprawling world provides a sandbox for a variety of genres, from epic wars and political conspiracies to magic, mystery, and romance. This opens the door to new creative directions while staying true to the spirit of the original Game of Thrones.
2. Confirmed Spin-offs: Projects That Are Happening
A. House of the Dragon
Perhaps the most anticipated spin-off, House of the Dragon, premiered in August 2022 and is set roughly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones. Based on Martin’s book Fire & Blood, this series chronicles the history of House Targaryen, the dragon-riding family that once ruled the Seven Kingdoms. The central plot focuses on the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons, a conflict that nearly tore the family apart and led to the downfall of their dynasty.
House of the Dragon is helmed by showrunner Ryan Condal, with Miguel Sapochnik, a key director from the original series, contributing as a co-showrunner in its first season. George R.R. Martin is also heavily involved as an executive producer, ensuring the show stays true to the lore.
The Targaryens’ internal conflict, rich with ambition, betrayal, and moral complexity, provides fertile ground for exploring themes of power, legacy, and family. The show dives deep into the rise and fall of powerful houses, much like Game of Thrones, but with the added spectacle of dragons at the height of their power.
The series has already been renewed for a second season, reflecting the strong viewership and critical reception it garnered. The success of House of the Dragon confirms that there’s still a strong audience for the Game of Thrones universe, setting the stage for more spin-offs to come.
B. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight
In April 2023, HBO confirmed another spin-off, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight, based on the Dunk and Egg novellas written by George R.R. Martin. This series follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall (Dunk) and his squire, a young boy named Egg, who later becomes King Aegon V Targaryen.
Set roughly 90 years before the events of Game of Thrones, this story offers a different tone from the epic wars and political machinations of the main series. Instead, it focuses on the more personal journey of two unlikely companions who find themselves caught up in larger events. The Dunk and Egg novellas are beloved by fans for their humor, heart, and exploration of the everyday lives of Westeros’ inhabitants.
The series is expected to be lighter in tone than Game of Thrones while still maintaining the moral complexity and depth that made the original show so compelling. Martin has written three Dunk and Egg novellas so far, and plans for more, giving the series plenty of source material to draw from.
3. Spin-offs in Development: Potential Projects on the Horizon
In addition to the projects already confirmed, there are several other Game of Thrones spin-offs in various stages of development. While not all of them will make it to the screen, they represent the diverse possibilities for expanding the Game of Thrones universe.
A. 10,000 Ships
This spin-off is set to explore the legendary tale of Princess Nymeria, a warrior queen who led her people, the Rhoynar, across the sea to Dorne after fleeing a devastating war with the Valyrians. Her journey takes place roughly 1,000 years before the events of Game of Thrones.
Nymeria’s arrival in Dorne and her marriage to Lord Mors Martell led to the unification of the region, creating the house that would eventually play a key role in Westeros’ history. Nymeria is an iconic figure in Westerosi lore, and fans will recall that Arya Stark named her direwolf after the legendary queen.
This series promises to dive into the lore of the Rhoynar people, the foundation of Dorne, and the story of survival, migration, and conquest.
B. The Sea Snake (Nine Voyages)
Focusing on Lord Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Sea Snake, this series is set to chart the voyages of the famous Westerosi explorer and naval commander. Corlys Velaryon is an important figure in Targaryen history, known for his wealth, naval prowess, and involvement in the Dance of the Dragons.
The Sea Snake’s nine voyages took him across the known world, from Essos to Sothoryos, amassing immense wealth and fame. This spin-off offers the potential to explore new lands and cultures within the Game of Thrones universe, expanding the world beyond Westeros and the Seven Kingdoms.
C. The Golden Empire (Animated Series)
One of the more intriguing ideas in development is an animated series set in the Empire of Yi Ti, a region in the far east of Essos that is modeled on Imperial China. Little is known about Yi Ti in the original series or the books, but it is described as one of the oldest and most powerful civilizations in the world of A Song of Ice and Fire.
An animated series set in Yi Ti offers a chance to explore a wholly different culture and style, separate from the medieval European influences that dominate the main storylines. This project could bring a fresh visual and narrative style to the Game of Thrones universe, showing that there are many different kinds of stories to be told within Martin’s world.
4. Spin-offs That Were Shelved: What Didn’t Make It
Not every Game of Thrones spin-off in development has made it to the screen. One of the most notable projects that was scrapped is the untitled prequel set during the Age of Heroes, thousands of years before the events of Game of Thrones. The pilot, starring Naomi Watts and set to explore the Long Night and the origin of the White Walkers, was canceled after filming.
This decision surprised many, given the hype surrounding the project. However, reports suggest that HBO was not satisfied with the pilot, leading to its cancellation. While disappointing for fans curious about the distant past of Westeros, it underscores HBO’s commitment to only moving forward with projects that meet a certain standard of quality.
Other spin-offs, including a rumored show about Flea Bottom, the slum of King’s Landing, have also been shelved. These decisions reflect the careful balancing act HBO is playing, ensuring that any new project feels fresh while still capturing the essence of what made Game of Thrones so successful.
5. What the Spin-offs Mean for the Legacy of Game of Thrones
The expansion of the Game of Thrones universe through spin-offs represents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, these projects allow fans to dive deeper into the rich lore of Westeros, exploring new characters, eras, and locations. On the other hand, the success of these spin-offs depends on their ability to stand on their own while maintaining the high standards set by the original series.
