Game Of Thrones: Every Episode Ranked From Worst To Best

50. The Broken Man (S6E7)

Written By: Bryan Cogman Directed By: Mark Mylod

An episode with a rare cold open, instead of diving straight into the opening credits we get something much more welcome: the return of Sandor Clegane.

However, this isn't the same Hound we knew and loved, as he tries to lead a more peaceful life, accompanied by Ian McShane's pacifist Brother Ray. That transformation doesn't even last a full episode though, before he's picking up the axe and ready to kill some of Brotherhood Without Banners.

Aside from the Hound, the best part of this episode is the introduction of Westeros' future Queen and saviour (if there's any justice, anyway), Lyanna Mormont, who becomes an instant scene-stealer and fan-favourite. The rest is decent enough, but mostly just setting things up for the last few episodes.

49. The North Remembers (S2E1)

Written By: David Benioff & D.B. Weiss Directed By: Alan Taylor

Following on from the ending of Season 1, The North Remembers comes out swinging. We finally get to meet Stannis Baratheon, who declares himself the rightful King, and then burns a bunch of men at the behest of another newcomer, Red Priestess Melisandre, while a third new character, the gruff but likeable Davos, pleads with him to see reason.

There are murders elsewhere, too, and rather more horrific as the murder of Robert's bastards is ordered, meaning a number of babies are butchered. Elsewhere, the Night's Watch meet Craster, Robb sends Theon home, and Daenerys travels the Red Waste. It's the usual season premiere setup, only with considerably more child-death.