The last time we visited with House Forrester, things began to get very real and a shocking conclusion left us wondering what the last episode of Telltale’s Game of Thrones series would have in store for us. Now, the wait for that concluding sixth chapter has come to an end and, after playing through its two hours of content, we can tell you that it’s definitely been worthwhile.
With each passing episode, things have become more dire and problematic for our family of protagonists, and the ending of Game of Thrones‘ fifth episode certainly turned up the intensity. With its final choice, it asked us to decide whether to sacrifice one of the characters we’d spent a lot of time with and become invested in from the start. If you’re reading this then you’re likely aware of who I’m talking about, that being the game’s third Lord Forrester, who took over for his slain father and younger brother.
When that choice presented itself, I made it, and although it was hard to watch one of my favourite characters perish, it seemed like the right decision. Then again, I always tried to play this game intelligently, although I ventured into asshole territory from time to time because I felt the need to stand up for myself and my adopted digital family when they were being treated like crap. Because of this, I don’t know how much the game would’ve changed had I not made that decision. What I do know, though, is that Episode 6, which is subtitled “The Ice Dragon,” has multiple outcomes that are determined by the choices you’ve made throughout the campaign, as well as some major choices that must be made before its credits roll for what is potentially the last time.
It likely goes without saying given the tone of this review, but Game of Thrones‘ episodic finale is something that really gets your mind going. There’s so much depth to it, as well as so many important decisions to make, that you’re often trying to think one step ahead of the on-screen action. That’s the sign of an intelligently written narrative, and the sheer amount of variables it presents is impressive.
Things pick back up with Mira — who’s still a world away from her family, in King’s Landing — still in trouble and wanted for murder thanks to some vile rumours that somebody has been spreading. On top of that, she’s also in trouble with Lady Margaery for whom she’s a handmaiden. She’s not the only one facing hard times, though, as you can imagine: Ryon is still being held captive by the enemy, Gared Tuttle’s search for the sacred North Grove continually puts him in newfound danger, and the homestead is being still being threatened. Thankfully, for its sake, Asher is home and in charge as the new Lord — at least in my game — but the weight of the situation is resting heavily upon his chiseled shoulders.
Every one of these predicaments is settled, with different outcomes available depending on the choices that you make. Saying anything more will spoil the fun and intrigue, and I absolutely hate spoilers so I won’t ruin anything for those who’ve yet to play through this episode. I will, however, urge you to think before you act, because dire outcomes do await those who make dangerous and potentially incorrect decisions. Many epic moments also await those who complete this dark and fantastical journey, including an encounter with a wild beast.
On the presentation side of things, Game of Thrones‘ concluding episode is mostly fine. There’s a bit of animation stutter, or jank if you will, but nothing major, and things ran pretty well for the most part. Telltale Games are known for having technical hiccups, though, and this one isn’t devoid of them. It does run better than, say, the first season of The Walking Dead, but it’s not perfect. Nothing major presented itself, though, and the sixth episode continues the games’ trend of looking beautiful thanks to a painted aesthetic, and sounding great as a result of impressive voice acting. Of course, it helps that some of the ever popular TV show’s actors reprise their roles within.
To conclude, Game of Thrones: Episode 6 – The Ice Dragon is a deep and layered finale that brings a lot to the table. It’s smart, interesting and complex, giving you a lot more than you’d expect it to. The content is dark, mature and potentially saddening, but it’s well worth playing through at least once, and is easily the series’ best instalment since its premiere.
This review is based on the Xbox One version of the game, which we were provided with.
Great
Although it's been a bit uneven as a whole, Telltale's Game of Thrones series concludes with multiple bangs thanks to a deep and memorable final episode. Multiple outcomes -- including some rather sad ones -- also combine to create a replayable and continually interesting finale.
Game of Thrones: Episode 6 - The Ice Dragon Review