It is impossible to rate this without a comparison to GOT. In this, one has the early years of the kingdoms, with intrigue and plotting to see who will sit on the Iron Throne. It builds over the season, to a high point at the end. One has deceit, treachery, lies and determination that a Queen will never sit on the Iron Throne. Women were to provide male heirs, and often that was brutal for them. There is a lot to like in this season, but a lot will depend on what one is looking for. If one relishes the conflict and battles of GOT, this is rather sedate. There certainly is the high mark of excellence in the production, although the background information on the Blu-ray is not extensive. It is more cerebral compared to the visceral experience of GOT. Certainly a lot more dragons.