Even if you haven’t personally experienced it, the global phenomenon of Game of Thrones over the past decade is undeniable. Like many other HBO productions, the series redefined the possibilities of television and significantly contributed to the current golden age of TV, where cinematic productions are increasingly challenged. The Game of Thrones Complete Collection is a comprehensive box set featuring all eight seasons, enriched with extensive bonus content, distributed across 33 Blu-ray discs. All episodes have been remastered in Ultra HD (4K) with Dolby Atmos sound.
Could this collection represent the definitive edition for enthusiasts of Game of Thrones? Let’s investigate.
Game of Thrones is adapted from author George R.R. Martin‘s fantasy novels. During a panel discussion in Los Angeles, in which we participated, Martin discussed his passion for fantasy literature, particularly the Lord of the Rings books. He also expressed his aversion to the trope of “a group of good characters uniting to defeat a singular evil.” Consequently, Game of Thrones functions as a superficial fantasy narrative encompassing dragons, swords, and magic. However, at its core, it’s a complex drama, a near-Shakespearean political thriller where unexpected events can occur. Within the realm of Westeros, comprising the seven kingdoms, the prominent families – the Houses – vie for power and the opportunity to place their heir on the Iron Throne, hence the series’ title. We primarily follow the Stark family from the North, whose relationship with the Lannister family, the current holders of the throne in King’s Landing, is strained. The sudden death of the charismatic, yet decadent king plunges the country into turmoil, paving the way for considerably less competent rulers from the same lineage. Meanwhile, a woman is sold into slavery by her unscrupulous brother to a leader of a nomadic horse tribe. She emerges as the potential last of House Targaryen, possessing the ancestral right to become the “mother of dragons.” Concurrently, a looming threat of the undead, the White Walkers, exists to the north of the Wall. The Night’s Watch and the immense ice wall are the only defense. But what unfolds as the protracted winter approaches? Which House will ultimately triumph? And will humanity retain any semblance of a kingdom to contest when the undead army initiates its assault?
This intricate narrative constitutes a fraction of the events unfolding over eight seasons of Game of Thrones—a cinematic journey that leaves a lasting impression.
Picture Quality
Toward the final season, each Game of Thrones episode commanded a budget of $15 million, comparable to a full-fledged Hollywood film. However, initial episodes had a lower budget. The pilot faced tonal issues, necessitating reshoots and recasting (including replacing Tudors actress Tasmin Merchant with Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen). The series initiated with a budget of $6 million per episode, which proved beneficial. The series employed digital filming, utilizing ARRI cameras since 2011, facilitating the creation of the 4K master now available, featuring HDR and HDR Dolby Vision in later seasons.
Dark fantasy lends itself well to home theater viewing, and the influence of films such as Lord of the Rings is apparent in the storytelling and visuals, which blend darkness and light, fire and ice, the undead and dragons, nudity and bloodshed. The opening sequence immediately presents intricate detail (without giving anything away, do you recall how effectively it sets the narrative in motion and the geographical context?), deep blacks, and accurately rendered lighting details, such as the torches and the icy-blue eyes of the undead. Later seasons offer enhanced color saturation, due to extravagant environments, increased special effects budgets, improved camera technology (the series spanned eight years, during which significant technological advancements occurred), and Dolby Vision, providing dynamic HDR, introduced a few years ago (while retroactive addition is possible, it’s simpler for streaming than physical discs).
When viewing The Long Night, from season 8 (the final season) – a particularly criticized episode largely set at night – which was rendered as a low-resolution, unattractive, grayish image by HBO Nordic‘s streaming service (predominantly featuring “black,” gray, and brown tones), one is struck by the visual fidelity now achieved with this release. The episode now presents itself with maximum bitrate from a pristine source. This underscores the continued relevance of UHD 4K as a physical format for enjoying films and series, as no streaming service currently approximates its superior quality, even those with excellent performance such as Disney+ and Netflix. It is encouraging that next-generation consoles, such as the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, will include UHD 4K players.
Audio Quality
The original episodes were mixed in 5.1 Dolby Digital, the format utilized for streaming on HBO (in the US, some regions in Sweden received stereo streams). This soundtrack was also present on older Blu-ray “Complete” editions. This release features a newly remixed Dolby Atmos soundtrack, representing a significant improvement. To avoid spoilers, let’s consider the opening scene: a resonating bass envelops the viewer as the iron gate leading out of Castle Black makes its presence felt. The details are clear and balanced in the soundscape; the search party’s macabre discovery in the forest evokes a slightly eerie horror atmosphere. The ensuing pursuit engages all channels, while the dialogue remains crystal clear and warm across all channels, complemented by refined bass that is always present without feeling loose or exaggerated.
This release delivers reference-quality sound on a UHD 4K disc.
Bonus Features
For those seeking comprehensive knowledge of Game of Thrones, particularly concerning the series and its history, this collection offers a wealth of information. It’s a treasure trove of content, Easter eggs, and insights. From deleted scenes, interviews, storyboards, and a simple animated feature detailing the history of the seven kingdoms – beneficial for those unable to engage with the lengthy books – to an enjoyable, touching, and entertaining two-hour reunion special hosted by Conan O’Brien, who leverages his interviewing skills to great effect. Each major character is explored in depth, reflecting on their experiences and the fact that many secured their first television roles through the series. The package contains approximately 30-40 hours of material, in addition to the supplemental content on each season disc pertaining specifically to that season; there are also three dedicated bonus discs.
The bonus material is primarily presented in Full HD 1080p with 5.1 sound, which is more than adequate for its intended purpose.
Summary – Game of Thrones Complete Collection
While titled Game of Thrones – Complete Collection, Game of Thrones – Ultimate Edition might be a more fitting designation. The release maximizes all aspects: picture quality, sound quality, and bonus material. In addition to showcasing one of the most compelling television series of recent times, this collection represents a comprehensive resource for those wishing to immerse themselves in the pop culture phenomenon that is Game of Thrones, a production of unparalleled scale (we await Amazon’s execution of its Lord of the Rings series with anticipation). Those who have yet to experience Game of Thrones have a rewarding journey ahead. For returning viewers, seize this opportunity to revisit the series with a fresh perspective, particularly during periods of inclement weather and social restrictions. You may be surprised by how much you’ve forgotten or misremembered.
Potential drawbacks? The price point of approximately 3,000 SEK might be a deterrent. However, superior quality commands a premium. For those prioritizing cost over optimal picture and sound, the previous edition can be acquired at a significantly reduced price (around 1,000 SEK). However, this would be a compromise. This definitive edition deserves to be experienced on an exceptional UHD 4K OLED TV and a high-end home theater system. As theatrical cinema declines, recreating the cinematic experience at home becomes increasingly important.
Kudos to Warner / HBO for assembling an exquisite collector’s edition. We eagerly anticipate embarking on this 72-hour journey repeatedly in the years to come.
Footnote: A Steelbook edition is also available for those who prefer that packaging format (offering identical content and price).
