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A tale of dragons, dragonlords, and a civil war within the most powerful family in a kingdom, House of the Dragon has promptly sealed itself as one of the highest-rated HBO productions. Based on George R. R. Martin’s Fire & Blood history series, the show famously drew nearly 10 million viewers for its season two premiere.
Full of cunning politics, elaborate set designs, and medieval warfare, its biggest attraction is the sly games played by the two rival factions.
In a world of hours of binge-worthy content, only a few can stand up to the ratings and reviews that the dragon saga boasts of.
Regardless, there are some series with themes and elements drawing a parallel to this intricate story. The likes of The Last Kingdom and Outlander hold immense reputations in their own right. However, they also can be a time-worthy watch for fans of the HBO series.
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7 shows that are a good watch for House of the Dragon fans
After a detailed search, here is a curation of seven worthy shows for fans of the epic saga. No matter in which order you watch them, they should end up giving you a joyful experience. They are:
- Game of Thrones
- The Last Kingdom
- Outlander
- The Crown
- The Tudors
- Shadow & Bone
- House of Cards
1) Game of Thrones (HBO)
To start House of the Dragon and skip Game of Thrones would be like beginning a book but skipping the end. Additionally, it was only the latter’s popularity that green-lit the former - a direct prequel. Set more than a century after the Targaryen civil war, the 2011-released show introduced the land of Westeros.
From the Starks in the North to the Lannisters, Tyrells, and Greyjoys, several important houses were introduced in the show, making it a must-watch for any who wish to explore deeper into the lore.
Moreover, with the same themes of betrayal, alliances, coups, wars, and friendship, the two shows share almost everything right from a common origin.
2) The Last Kingdom (BBC Two, Netflix)
A live-action adaptation of Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories, The Last Kingdom, drew heavy inspiration from real-life events. The historical fiction series blended action, adventure, and political intrigue in a five-season spanning drama.
Set around the years between 800-900 AD, it featured the native Saxons defending their territory from advancing Vikings. Alexander Dreymon helmed the protagonist, Uhtred, as a fictional England headed to war.
Much like House of the Dragon, the series featured a medieval backdrop where the common warfare involved swords and shields, minus the majestic beasts.
Battle strategies, hidden bloodlines, power plays, and loyalty marked the plot, making it a suitable watch for fans of the genre.
3) Outlander (Starz, Netflix)
Airing in 2014, Outlander stands as one of the best historical drama series with a 91% critical approval on Rotten Tomatoes. Based on Diana Gabaldon’s novel of the same name, the show starred Caitriona Balfe as Claire Randall.
Narrating the protagonist’s tale as a former military nurse during the Second World War, it then had her mysteriously transported back to 1743.
The time-traveling adventure also had notes of love and heartbreak. However, at its core, stories from the Scottish and American Revolutions set up high stakes and twists.
Viewers coming from House of the Dragon will feel familiar with the moral dilemmas, historical retelling, costume production, and complex characters of Outlander.
4) The Tudors (BBC Two, CBC, Showtime)
A star-studded cast of Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, and Natalie Dormer brought the series to international acclaim. Set in 16th-century England, The Tudors ran for four seasons and carried 38 episodes in total.
Revolving around the reign of King Henry VIII, the historical drama explored the consequences of the king’s obsession with securing a legitimate male successor.
Tumultuous marriages, clashes between the church and the state, corruption, and great production, made the series stand out.
Featuring high-pitched court dramas, political feuds, scheming nobles, secret love affairs, and high ambitions, the show is like a Renaissance version of House of the Dragon.
5) The Crown (Netflix)
The Crown had six seasons centered around the life of the late Queen Elizabeth II. It documented her life from her wedding in 1947 to the early 21st century.
Furthermore, some of the most important historical events in the history of the British monarchy, like the passing of Princess Diana, made their way into the show.
Much like House of the Dragon, this production left no stone unturned in putting on a grand show. Accurate attires and backdrops made it one of the most expensive shows ever made.
Finally, from Daemon Targaryen actor Matt Smith as Prince Phillip, the show carries relevance in narrating the story of in-house royal turmoil. At last, political meddling in one’s own house further connects it to House of the Dragon.
6) The Witcher (Netflix)
A House of Dragon-like setting in an alternate world, The Witcher comes the closest in terms of being a fantasy drama similar to the HBO show. Having aired three seasons so far, the series is based on Andrzej Sapkowski’s novels.
Additionally, it features the protagonist, Geralt of Rivia, formerly played by Henry Cavill, as a brooding monster-hunting hero. In a land full of magic and beasts, he crossed paths with a sorceress and a young royal, setting a plot full of curses and moral dilemmas.
Mythical creatures, sword fights, magic spells, and even portals adorn the medieval-styled setting. An expansive lore, quests, and a dash of destiny have allowed the show to continue shooting its fourth season, set to debut anytime soon.
7) House of Cards (Netflix)
A political thriller, House of Cards is the modern equivalent of the power plays showcased in House of the Dragons. Airing its first season in 2013, it was the first series crafted exclusively for Netflix.
The leading man, Kevin Spacey’s Frank Underwood, came across as an amoral politician fueled by ambition. Showcasing a ruthless climb through the ladder, the show skillfully fictionalized a dark side of the current power struggles in major governments.
Backroom deals, courtroom thrillers, betrayal, resentment, shifting alliances, affairs, cover-ups, and manipulation form the major themes of the show.
Furthermore, fans of House of the Dragon would instantly relate to the shady dual side of many characters and enjoy a comfortable watch.
As House of the Dragon enters its season two finale in a few days, the above list should keep fans occupied until the next chapter arrives.
