A Game of Thrones
In the novel, recounting events from various points of view, Martin introduces the plot-lines of the noble houses of Westeros, the Wall, and the Targaryens. The novel has inspired several spin-off works, including several games. It is also the namesake and basis for the first season of "Game of Thrones", an HBO television series that premiered in April 2011. A March 2013 paperback TV tie-in re-edition was also titled "Game of Thrones", excluding the indefinite article "A".
Game of Thrones
First-season reviewers said the series had high production values, a fully realized world and compelling characters. According to "Variety", "There may be no show more profitable to its network than 'Game of Thrones' is to HBO. Fully produced by the pay cabler and already a global phenomenon after only one season, the fantasy skein was a gamble that has paid off handsomely". The second season was also well received. "Entertainment Weekly" praised its "vivid, vital, and just plain fun" storytelling and, according to "the Hollywood Reporter", the series made a "strong case for being one of TV's best series"; its seriousness made it the only drama comparable to "Mad Men" or "Breaking Bad". "The New York Times" gave the series a mixed review, criticizing its number of characters, their lack of complexity and a meandering plot.