Game Of Thrones: Every Episode Ranked From Worst To Best

5. Kissed By Fire (S3E5)

Game of Thrones Jon Snow Ygritte cave
HBO

Written By: Bryan Cogman Directed By: Alex Graves

You're probably wondering what this episode is doing here, and thinking it's too high. I hear you. This isn't an episode 9 or a season finale. Instead, it's a quiet episode, but also a beautiful one, and filled with huge character moments.

Giving the episode the title are Jon and Ygritte, who spend time in the cave and man who'll later become Lord Commander breaks his vows to the Night's Watch. In another, rather different bath scene, Jaime and Brienne's bond is forged, as a weary Kingslayer explains just how he got that moniker, and truly beginning his path to redemption.

Robb Stark, meanwhile, murders Lord Karstark, a decision that not only helps kickstart his demise, but would still be having consequences in Season 6. The burning candle on top of the cake is the Hound vs Beric Dondarrion, a man scared of flames against one with a burning sword. It's fiery and furious, with atmospheric lighting and intense choreography, and the sum of its parts makes this episode truly standout.

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NCTJ-qualified journalist. Most definitely not a racing driver. Drink too much tea; eat too much peanut butter; watch too much TV. Sadly only the latter paying off so far. A mix of wise-old man in a young man's body with a child-like wonder about him and a great otherworldly sensibility.