Now that it's been confirmed that Game of Thrones Season 8 will be the show's last, fans are already dreading the inevitable day when the HBO hit series will tragically come to an end. (A life without Game of Thrones? Who even knows what that looks like anymore?) Thankfully, there may be a silver lining to this otherwise dark and dismal news. There are reports circulating that HBO is in the process of discussing ideas for a potential Game of Thrones spinoff, which would mean at least some part of Westeros would live on after the eighth and final season comes to a close. (Thank the gods, both old and new.)
Of course, right now this is all just pure talk and speculation. HBO hasn't officially confirmed or announced that spinoff will happen. Heck, we don't even know which characters would be part of this hypothetical project. But if this idea really does come to fruition, there are a few things that the writers will need to keep in mind. Granted, any Game of Thrones show is better than no Game of Thrones show at all, however, if the network truly wants this project to be as successful as its predecessor, there are a few things any GoT spinoff will need in order keep fans happy and secure those epic ratings. Such as...
Connections To Original Characters
While any spinoff is bound to have its fair share of brand new characters, it's important that the series also stick to its original roots. That means making mention of (and prominently including) the show's OG members. It's fine for the spinoff to try and be its own entity — just so long as it doesn't ignore what made it so great in the first place.
Climate Observations
If I don't hear at least five different weather proclamations throughout the season, I'll consider the project a wash.
Drinking
Is there any other beverage in this fantasy realm worth mentioning? (No.)
Easter Eggs
If there's one thing every viewer of a show loves, it's finding hidden references that only true diehard fans would notice. Not that we really need any reassurance on that fact, of course. But it's still nice to know nonetheless.
Fully Formed Characters
One of the many great things about Game of Thrones is that despite its insanely large cast of characters, we're still able to feel very strongly about each and every one of them, regardless of how little screen time they may get each week. The spinoff should follow this same formula. It makes the heroes worth rooting for and the villains worth hating.
Dragons
Don't make me pull out my best Khaleesi voice and scream, "WHERE ARE MY DRAGONS?"
Surprise Cameos
Odds are Game of Thrones won't be able to wrap up every single storyline it started by the end of Season 8, especially since we aren't even getting our usual 10-episode arc. That means there will be quite a few loose ends that will be left unfinished. This spinoff would be a great way to re-introduce these characters' stories and give fans the closure they need.
Lyanna Mormont
Because anything that includes her is guaranteed to be an outright success.
Images: Helen Sloan/HBO; Giphy (8)
