The Best Players of Game of Thrones: A Comprehensive Analysis

The House of the Seven Kingdoms, in the epic narrative of Game of Thrones, is a realm where strategy and intelligence reign supreme. This analysis aims to identify and evaluate the top contenders for the title of the best player in this tumultuous saga. From the strategically omniscient Bran to the cunningly manipulative Littlefinger, who emerges as the most skilled player in this competitive game?

Who is the Best Player?

Bran Stark is the titleholder in this analysis for the following reasons:

Unlike others whose plans often faltered, Bran's plans were executed with perfect precision. His omniscience, a crucial advantage over his rivals, ensures that he never succumbs to unforeseen events or distractions. Bran's profound knowledge and ability to utilize it to his advantage make him an unparalleled strategist. Backed by his internal council of raven messengers, Bran's foresight always precedes his actions, rendering his rivals incapable of outmaneuvering him.

While it is true that each character on this list of potential best players faced their fair share of mistakes, Bran remains the supreme player with a consistent track record of success and survival. The famous saying from Littlefinger, ‘It is what you do not know that can kill you,’ underscores the importance of knowledge in the game. Bran’s advantage lies in his complete understanding and mastery of the Game of Thrones.

Notable Mentions

Varys, the Spider, figures second in the rankings for the following reasons:

He is one of the smartest and most trusted advisors, yet his mistakes were more towards the end stages of the series. Envisioned a world where Daenerys would rule with Varys as her chief spymaster, underscoring his predictive ability and foresight. He and Littlefinger both realized strategic alliances early on, manipulating the seven kingdoms for their own purposes. Like Varys, Littlefinger had an incredible initial rise from relative obscurity to a powerful position, but ultimately failed due to unexpected circumstances.

Qyburn is another noteworthy player, especially considering his strategic manipulations and experiments. His revival of Renly and the Night King solidified him as a formidable player:

His medical and revival techniques gave Cersei any chance of winning the final battle. By becoming Hand to Cersei, he positioned himself as a powerful figure, similar to Varys.

Subpar but Still Strategic

Littlefinger (Petyr Baelish) ranks as the best out of lords and knights, though with significant limitations:

He started with minimal influence and rose to become the Hand of the King, a position of unrivaled power. Unfortunately, he lost trust due to numerous plot twists and betrayals, fundamentally changing the Game. His downfall stemmed from the sudden betrayal of his allies, even as Sansa's trust eroded.

Despite being below Varys in terms of overall strategy, Baelish's ability to manipulate power and wealth remains a testament to his strategic acumen. Had everything gone according to his plans, he would have secured multiple kingdoms.

Additional Considerations

Tywin Lannister emerges as a close competitor, hindered by unforeseen events and his son's choices:

Most of Tywin's family's misfortunes were not within his control, such as Cersei's wrongdoings and Robert's bastard child. Had Cersei honoured her father and Robert, Tywin would have backed a legitimate son, leading to a smooth transition. Without the breakout conflict, Tywin could have maintained his influence over the succession and peace.

Tyrion Lannister’s strategic prowess diminished in later seasons, reflecting his descent into less intelligent decisions:

The incentives that led Tyrion to seek the power of the kingdom beyond the Wall were misguided and ultimately destructive. His influence was overshadowed by more skilled and calculated players like Varys and Littlefinger.

Sansa Stark also emerges as a noteworthy player, especially considering her logical and prudent advice:

She ended the war with a substantial kingdom under her rule, leveraging her strategic skills effectively. Her role as a councilor to Jon and Daenerys contributes to her competency as a player in the game.

Conclusion

The analysis of the best players in Game of Thrones highlights the intricacies and strategic depth of the narrative. While Bran, Varys, and Littlefinger stand out, each character's journey reveals the complexities of power, manipulation, and unforeseen events that shape the Game of Thrones.

Understanding these strategic maneuvers through the eyes of the best players provides insights into the narrative and helps us appreciate the craftsmanship of the series.